The UNBC Timberwolves handed out their player awards over the weekend with Tyrell Laing being named as the Most Outstanding Player.
Laing, from Prince George, was sensational this year, leading Canada West in scoring with 21.9 PPG, breaking the UNBC record, while also setting program marks for total points, field goals, and free throws. The PGSS product also set a new career high for assists, rebounds, field goal percentage, and minutes.
“Tyrell was outstanding this year, leading Canada West in scoring and bringing a focus and compete level to the court on a consistent basis every single game,” said Coach Todd Jordan. “He was leaned on to do a lot for us every night, and he did it with efficiency. He is extremely deserving of this honour.”
Zane Robison Award:
Chris Ross, G/F North Vancouver, B.C.
The Zane Robison Award, named after one of the founders of the UNBC Men’s Basketball program, is awarded annually to the player who shows the utmost dedication to the Timberwolves. Chris Ross is a deserving winner of the honour, recognizing his desire to make himself and his teammates better every day. The Academic All-Canadian saw an uptick in minutes, points, rebounds, assists, and steals this year.
“Chris was extremely dedicated this season. and showed this every day with his commitment to excellence in academics, extra time put in working on his game, and a commitment to growing himself as a leader and a basketball player,” said Jordan. “We are proud of Chris for his work this year.”
Most Inspirational Player:
Saje Gosal, G Golden, B.C.
Playing his fifth and final season with the Timberwolves, Saje Gosal provided tremendous poise, IQ, and leadership to a young UNBC roster. The five-time Academic All-Canadian was a steadying voice, on and off the court for his teammates, and is a fitting recipient of the Most Inspirational Player Award.
“Saje inspired through his contagious positive attitude and always being there to support his team, whether that was an encouraging word, advice to a younger teammate, or helping tutor a teammate,” said Jordan. “Saje was a leader not only with our team, but also within the school.”
Rookie of the Year:
Fareed Shittu, F Edmonton, AB
Fareed Shittu was, fittingly, a slam dunk for this year’s Rookie of the Year Award. The high-flying first-year set program freshman records for points, FGs, FTs, rebounds, minutes, blocks, and steals. The Edmonton product earned Canada West All-Rookie honours, and will be a favourite at UNBC for years to come.
“Fareed had an incredible season, breaking almost every one of our rookie records and exceeding expectations. He is a special athlete, and he worked hard to improve this year,” said Jordan. “Fareed has a bright future with a lot of potential.”
Practice Wins Leader:
Vova Pluzhnikov Kharkiv, Ukraine
Practice is where so much of the hard work is done to prepare and improve, and UNBC Men’s Basketball tracks all drills and competitions in training throughout the season. Veteran guard Vova Pluzhnikov led the way, with his commitment to improvement, which led to success in games. The native of Kharkiv, Ukraine became the first Timberwolf to record 300 points, 100 rebounds, and 75 assists in a season.
“Vova led our team by example, every day in practice, winning the most practice competitions this year. It is a reflection of his competitive attitude and preparation on a daily basis to give great effort in practice and in games.”