When Praise Idamadudu first stepped onto the track in Cumberland University colors, few could have imagined just how far and how fast she would go. Now, after an illustrious collegiate career that has spanned years of consistent dominance, national titles, and unforgettable moments, it’s time to give this remarkable Nigerian sprinter her flowers. Because what Praise accomplished in the NAIA wasn’t just exceptional it was historic.
Praise Idamadudu didn’t just compete. She ruled
over her years at Cumberland, she became one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the NAIA, particularly in the 400m, where she captured an astounding three consecutive national titles. Her ability to maintain excellence over multiple seasons across both indoor and outdoor speaks volumes about her work ethic, discipline, and heart.
Praise burst onto the national scene with her first NAIA 400m outdoor title in 2023, clocking a time that stamped her as one to watch. She didn’t just win she dominated, leaving a gap that echoed with authority. That victory marked the beginning of her legacy.
The following year, she returned stronger. At the 2024 NAIA Outdoor Championships, she not only defended her 400m title, but also stood out in the 200m, earning a silver medal and narrowly missing out on a historic sprint double. She also played a pivotal role in Cumberland’s relay teams.
Earlier in the same year, at the 2024 NAIA Indoor Championships, she clinched gold in the 400m, again demonstrating her all year round brilliance. Praise had become a symbol of excellence a sprinter whose name was automatically in the gold medal conversation every time.
Her final year at Cumberland was no farewell tour it was a reminder of just how far she’d come. At the 2025 NAIA Indoor Championships, Praise once again grabbed gold in the 400m and silver in the 200m, showing that she still had the fire that first brought her glory.
Then came the 2025 NAIA Outdoor Championships, her final dance. She ran a gritty 54.23s to finish second in the 400m final, passing the baton literally and figuratively to the next generation. She also placed 5th in the 200m with a time of 24.34s, closing her NAIA career with dignity, power, and pride.
Her Career Highlights at Cumberland University includes:
3× NAIA 400m Outdoor Champion
2× NAIA 400m Indoor Champion
Multiple-time All-American in both the 200m and 400m
NAIA Silver Medalist 200m (2024 Outdoor, 2025 Indoor)
Consistent finalist and point scorer in relay events
2025 Outdoor 400m SB – 53.75s | 200m SB – 23.64s
4x400m relay best – 3:50.12
Beyond the Medals Praise Idamadudu brought more than medals to Cumberland she brought legacy. She carried herself with grace and focus, a soft-
spoken warrior whose spikes told her story. She became a role model for younger sprinters, especially fellow African athletes trying to break into U.S. collegiate track.
Whether it was indoor or outdoor, short sprints or quarter miles, Praise showed up and reminded everyone what consistency, class, and confidence look like when wrapped in a pair of lane assigned bibs.
As she graduates from the NAIA, Praise leaves behind not just medals, but footprints. She has proven that great athletes don’t just run fast they raise the standard. The future may take her to the pro circuit or international championships, but one thing’s for certain the NAIA will remember the name Praise Idamadudu.
Not just as a winner. But as one of the greatest to ever do it.