Entrance into the Big Ten brought with it quite a challenge for each of Penn State's athletic teams. Besides battling the competition, Nittany and Lady Lions alike found themselves fighting for respect.

After only two seasons, the women's basketball team has found plenty.

Two days after clinching a share of their first Big Ten title, the Lady Lions hauled in a heap of conference honors. Sophomore guard Tina Nicholson was named to the Big Ten's first team, senior forward Helen Holloway and junior guard Katina Mack to the second team, and Coach Rene Portland as coach of the year.

Portland, a two-time national coach of the year, gave credit for the award to her staff.

"When you're picked coach of the year, it's because of the people around you," Portland said. "I think (assistant coaches) Susan (Robinson), Annie (Troyan) and Dawn (Bryant) have done a terrific job. I get all the acclamation, and they're out collecting film, you name it."

While the coaching honors may be due to a team effort, Nicholson, Holloway and Mack landed on the Big Ten teams thanks to their own unique talents. Nicholson rebounded from a disappointing freshman season to average 12.2 points, 6.4 assists and 2.7 steals per game this season, and her consistent play at the point was key in the Lady Lions run through the Big Ten.

"It's just one of those things," the typically understated Nicholson said. "I care, but I really don't put too much emphasis on it."

Holloway and Mack, on the second team for the second consecutive year, are practically fixtures on the all-conference squads. Holloway, a co-captain, averaged 13.5 points and 6.8 boards a game and anchored the Lady Lions' post game, while Mack quietly put up 14.4 points a contest from the two-spot to lead the squad.