B-ball teams hand out awards


Lynn Wloszek

The Chippewas won a school-record 25 games and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1975.

No stranger to postseason recognition, junior center Chris Kaman captured the “Most Valuable Player” award. The MAC “Player of the Year” and “Defensive MVP” averaged 22.4 points and 12 rebounds per game. He set school records in rebounds (373) and blocked shots (98).

Senior guard Whitney Robinson closed out his career with the “Top Defensive Player” award. Robinson exibitited his trademark intense on-ball pressure all season and recorded 30 steals.

Senior forward Mike Manciel closed out his prolific career as CMU’s sixth-leading all time scorer (1,399 points). The Second Team All-MAC performer was named CMU’s “Most Improved Player.” Manciel averaged 16.6 points and 4.9 points on the year.

The energy and enthusiasm of senior J.R. Wallace will be missed next season, as Wallace was named “Inspirational Player.” The 6’0” senior averaged 14.3 points and 3.3 assists, leading to his being named “Honorable Mention All-MAC.”

Junior point guard T.J. Meerman was a steady influence on the team all season, and his strong play was rewarded with the “Unsung Hero” award.

Junior forward Adam Dentlinger gave the team strong production off the bench, and was honored with the team’s “Scholar Athlete” award. Dentlinger carries a 3.45 cumulative grade point average.

Two members of CMU’s Rose Rowdies student section also received recognition as “Rose Rowdie Sixth Men.” Caro senior David Knefelkamp and Grand Rapids sophomore Steve Schwanda received honors for their dedication.

2002-2003 CMU Basketball Awards
Men’s Awards

MVP: Chris Kaman
Defensive Player: Whitney Robinson
Most Improved: Mike Manciel
Inspirational Player: J.R. Wallace
Unsung Hero: T.J. Meerman
Scholar Athlete: Adam Dentlinger

Women’s Awards

MVP/Best Defender: Laurie Henderson
Top Free Throw Shooter: Henderson
Best Rebounder: Desiree Eidson
Most Improved: Chasidy Myers
3PT/FT Champion: Emily Gross
Dee Pommerenk: Raina Harmon

Share: