LAS CRUCES, N.M. - Nikki Butler and Matalasi Faapito have each earned a spot on the Preseason All-WAC Team the WAC announced Wednesday morning. The WAC also announced it's Preseason Coaches Poll where the Aggies were picked to finish second in the conference. Seattle was picked to win the conference with four first-place votes while the Aggies had three first-place votes. 

The 2020 Preseason Player of the Year is looking for another big year for the Aggies. Butler will return for her fifth season in an Aggie uniform. Butler is a three-time All-WAC First Team honoree and was on her way to her fourth straight nomination before the 2020 season was canceled. Butler was named the 2019 WAC Player of the year as well. Butler comes off one of her best seasons as an Aggie in 2020. In 23 games, Butler hit a career-high .419 with seven home runs and 21 RBI. Butler was also named to the 2020 Academic All-WAC Team. 

Faapito was a pleasant surprise for the Aggies in 2020, as the freshman hit .403 with a team-high 23 RBI and seven home runs. Faapito was also a force on the mound making 10 starts for the Aggies. Faapito ended the year with a 4-4 record and a 4.36 ERA while striking out 43 batters. 

The Aggies will begin their season at The Spring Games in Leesburg, Fla., on Friday, Feb. 12.

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