WDTN: Wright State students win full year tuition scholarships during Raiders’ win in Horizon League tournament

Sophomore Lavell Lyles celebrates after winning a full year of tuition during Wednesday’s men’s basketball game.

Wright State University is having success on the court and they’re spreading that vibe to students too.

The university announced that three students earned a free year of tuition during a Horizon League Men’s Basketball Championship tournament game Wednesday. The students essentially earned about $13,000.

The students were randomly selected to try and make a half-court shot for the scholarship during halftime. While no half-court shots were sunk, university President Sue Edwards stepped onto the court and offered the same reward for making a closer shot.

Every student made a layup, ensuring their scholarship.

University leadership said the point of the promotion wasn’t making a half-court shot. That’s reserved for the Steph Curry’s, the Dame’s, the Luka Doncic’s of the world.

“This promotion is about more than the thrill of a half-court shot — it reflects Wright State’s commitment to fostering a campus culture where students feel connected and engaged. When students feel like they belong, they stay, they succeed, and they graduate on time,” said Susan Schaurer, vice president for enrollment, marketing and career development.

One of the three, Lavell Lyles, a sophomore media studies major, said the moment was “amazing.”

“I’m thankful for the opportunity, thankful to be a Raider,” Lyles said.

Another student winner, Anna Crowley, a junior crime and justice major, called it a surreal experience.

“I love Wright State. I love the environment, the community,” Crowley said.

Austin Smith, a finance major, won a scholarship as well.

While they earned the biggest awards of the night, other students went home with prizes as well, including three iPads, a book scholarship, university dining dollars and merch.

The Raiders defeated Cleveland State 90–61 to advance to the semifinal round.