Awards were presented to players for various accomplishments at Tuesday night's banquet. No big surprises in the winners but I will list them here;
Academics-Bryant Mbamalu
Leadership-Bryant Mbamalu
Defensive Player of Year-Elridge Moore
Best Rebounder-Shawn Long
Player of Year-Elfrid Payton
I was a little surprised Moore was chosen for best defensive player over Payton but he did have the challenge of playing inside at 6'5".
Coach did cover lots of other individual accomplishments by the guys in his remarks. What I noticed there was how much Shawn Long contributed. When you hear where he stood in the nation in things like rebounding and double doubles you realize how much he is under appreciated. He also was one of the top three point shooters in the conference on a percentage basis. When you are a top rebounder and three point shooter you are an outstanding overall player.
Highlight for me was hearing Coach Marlin say he enjoyed telling Ron Harper good luck in CUSA after the SBC tournament semi final game and telling Ron Hunter good luck in the NIT after the SBC finals.
I am optimistic more good times are ahead for Cajun basketball.