Senior Erica Perry and junior Sarah Strand each took home a pair of honors during the annual Montana State-Fast Break Club Women’s Basketball banquet over the weekend.
Perry, who just completed her senior season, was named team most valuable player, as well as being the recipient of the squad’s community service award.
The Lynwood, California, native garnered First Team All Big Sky honors after averaging 13.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.9 steals per game. During the season, she reached the 1,000 point plateau with 24 points against Idaho State. In addition, she finished her career second on MSU’s all-time steals list and fourth on the all-time assists chart.
Off the court, Perry served as a big sister in the Big Brothers/Sisters program, volunteered with the Hearts of the Valley Animal Shelter, served as a mentor in the Child Advancement Program (CAP), and spent numerous hours in the Bozeman public schools in a variety of capacities.
“Erica raised the bar and the level of expectations for all student-athletes in our program,” said MSU head coach Tricia Binford. “She has excelled both on and off the court and has become a very positive example for our community.”
Strand, a 6-1 forward from Shoreline, Washington, won best defensive player honors, along with the Bobcat strength award.
On the season, Strand led MSU in scoring and rebounding, averaging 13.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game.
Strand reached the 1,000 point milestone in MSU’s quarterfinal win over Sacramento State at the Big Sky Tournament. In addition, she set the Montana State single game, single-season and career marks for blocked shots.
“Sarah is another student-athlete that is setting the pace of excellence both on the court and in the classroom,” Binford said. “Last summer, she committed herself to be in the best shape possible, and it paid big dividends for her, as well as for the team.”
Sophomore Janette Jackson took home the most improved player award, while junior manager Rachel Rehbein won the coveted 6th Man Award for her work and dedication to the program.
Finally, a new award was named in honor of lifelong Montana State administrator, professor and ardent women’s basketball supporter Dr. Ellen Kreighbaum. Kreighbaum was the first recipient of the award for outstanding commitment and dedication towards the growth and development of Montana State women's basketball.