Awards banquet reflects on year for the Bulldogs
After posting one of its best seasons in five years and advancing to the second round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament, Mississippi State officially closed out its 2016-17 campaign on Saturday with the annual awards banquet at the Mize Pavilion.
Sophomore All-SEC standout Quinndary Weatherspoon, one of the top scorers in the league, was selected the Most Valuable Player, while senior I.J. Ready received the Inspirational and Top Defensive player awards.
“Q had to overcome a lot, especially with injuries,” MSU coach Ben Howland said. “He wanted to play so bad and did everything he could to come back. I couldn’t be more proud of I.J. He was our leader on and off the court and to see what he did for four years is inspirational. He leaves here in the Top 10 of steals and assists, and I know he has a bright future in front of him in coaching, something he really wants to do.”
Also honored Saturday were Aric Holman and Tyson Carter, who received the Most Improved and Coaches Awards, respectively. In addition, Xavian Stapleton was given the Toughness Award after overcoming two knee surgeries that cost him 20 months of basketball.
Rounding out the recognition were Lamar Peters and Mario Kegler, who were chosen Outstanding Freshmen.
In statistical categories, Ready took home the free throw shooting and assists awards, while Holman was tops in rebounds. Eli Wright had the highest 3-pointer percentage, with Schnider Herard was tops in field-goal percentage.
Howland also recognized the achievements of Jim Ellis, who’s been behind the mic for MSU basketball the past 34 years, the last six as the “Voice of the Bulldogs.” He was presented with a framed No. 34 jersey for his service. Earlier this month, Ellis announced he was retiring from basketball and football.