Star Cortez brings leadoff speed, elite range, and all-league impact to NDSU
Star Cortez is a fast, high-contact center fielder who keeps showing up in big moments for North Dakota State. In the 2026 season, she started every game in center field, hit .293 in Summit League play, reached base at a .388 clip, went 5-for-5 on stolen-base attempts in conference action, and tied a school record with eight outfield assists during the regular season; she also earned First Team All-Summit League honors. She looks like a plug-and-play spark: steady defender, disruptive on the bases, and the kind of leadoff-style athlete who quietly tilts games.
