INDIANAPOLIS — Former Tennessee basketball star Nicky Anosike was honored as the NCAA woman of the year at a dinner tonight.

Anosike helped guide the Lady Vols to consecutive NCAA championships in 2007 and 2008.

The award honors student athletes who have completed their college eligibility, demonstrated academic and athletic excellence and engaged in community service and leadership opportunities.

"She is one of the hardest working student athletes I have encountered in my 35 years of coaching," said Tennessee coach Pat Summitt, who along with Anosike's mother accepted the award on her behalf.

Anosike was drafted by the WNBA Minnesota Lynx and averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 rebounds while playing in all 34 games this season. She is currently playing basketball in Israel during the WNBA's offseason.

She is the third winner from Tennessee, joining diver Lauryn McCalley (2005) and swimmer/diver Catherine Byrne (1992).