SIOUX FALLS – University of Sioux Falls Head Women's Basketball Coach Travis Traphagen has announced the signing of sophomore forward Madison Birnbaum, who will continue her academic and athletic career with USF.

A transfer from Newman University in Wichita, Kan., Birnbaum joins USF after averaging 5.8 points with 5.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game at Newman University, which completes in the MIAA.

Originally of Ponca City, Okla., she will have three years of eligibility remaining as the 2020-21 season does not count again a student-athlete's eligibility.  

"It is great to bring in a talented player like Madison (Birnbaum)," said Traphagen. "She shoots it well, is long and can defend with an ability to block shots. I think she has a great opportunity to make an impact in our program and be an outstanding player in the NSIC," he said.

The daughter of David and Julie Birnbaum, she recorded 10 double-digit scoring games, two double figure rebound games, 287 points, 193 rebounds, 31 assists, 70 steals and 35 blocked shots at Newman University. Birnbaum hit 96-of-215 from the field for 44.6 percent, including 48-of-132 from three-point range for 36.3 percent. At the foul line, she was 47-of-61 for 77 percent. As for three-pointers, she has had 25 games with a three-pointer, nine of two or more, four of three or more and twice hitting four threes in a game.

In playing 22 games in 2020-21, Birnbaum made six starts and averaged 25.8 minutes while scoring 128 points, with 87 rebounds, 38 steals and 19 blocked shots. This past season, Birnbaum hit 43-of-114 shots (38 percent), including 27-of-83 from three-point range. She had four games of double digits including 16 points and four rebounds against Central Missouri (1/16/21) where she was 4-of-4 from three-point range. She had a career-best 17 points (4-of-7 from three-point range) with eight rebounds against Missouri Western (2/16/21). She also had 11 rebounds vs Pitt State (11/24/20) and seven times registered seven rebounds or more in a game.

As a freshman, Birnbaum averaged 6.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in playing 18.9 minutes. In playing 24 games, including one start, she hit 53-of-101 from the field for 52.5 percent and 21-of-49 from three-point range. She was 32-of-39 free throws while grabbing 106 rebounds, dishing 17 assists, recording 32 steals and adding 16 blocks. She recorded seven double-digit scoring games with a high of 16 points and four rebounds against Nebraska-Kearney (2/27/20). He had a career-high 14 rebounds with nine points against Rogers State (1/15/20).