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PAGE, VAN OOSTRUM HONOURED

Great Britain women’s star Julie Page has been named as British Basketball’s Player of the Year for 2011.

The Manchester-born forward, currently playing for Polish side Torun, took the Olympic Athlete prize ahead of short-listed rivals Luol Deng, Chantelle Handy and Joel Freeland.

Page – who regularly blogs on MVP’s website – averaged 10 points and 7.5 rebounds per game at EuroBasket Women in Poland where GB went into the second round on their debut appearance.

“Just to be considered alongside so many talented and accomplished players is extremely humbling, but to actually win the award is a tremendous privilege,” she said.

“This year has been an incredible ride for both me personally and the Standard Life GB women’s team. I would like to extend my gratitude and eternal thanks to everyone who has believed in and supported me throughout my career.”

GB point guard Devon van Oostrum has been named as the first recipient of Emerging Athlete award after earning his senior competitive debut following a stand-out campaign at Under 20 level.

Van Oostrum played for GB at two levels (Dan Wooller)

The Spanish-based prospect averaged 13 points, seven rebounds and a tournament-high five assists per game in the European Under-20 Championships and then played in three of GB’s five games at European Basket in Lithuania, including 23 minutes on court against eventual winners, Spain.

“I am so happy to have been awarded this title, especially since it was my first official outing with the GB senior men’s side,” van Oostrum said.

“The under-20 and senior games were a great chance to play with older and more experienced players. I learnt a lot from them and also made some new friends along the way. Without their help I wouldn’t have won this award.”

British Basketball Performance Director, Chris Spice commented on the award choices.

“Both Julie and Devon have had great seasons for GB this summer and I congratulate them on their awards,” he said. “They also both know the value of hard work and determination and we hope they will continue to improve and become major players in our Olympic campaign next year.”

Main Photo: Map/BB

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