Standard Life GB senior women's player, Julie Page has been recognised as the British Basketball Player of the Year, with Devon Van Oostrum picking up the brand new honour of Emerging Athlete 2011.
2011 saw point-guard Devon Van Oostrum make his debut for the Standard Life GB senior men's team following strong performances with the GB under-20 men where he averaged 13 points, seven rebounds and a tournament-high five assists per game. As a result Chris Finch called him up to the senior team where he shone during the Olympic Test Event in August. He had an outstanding performance against world number nine side, Australia when he sunk a crucial basket to send the game into overtime. At just 18 years old the point-guard also featured heavily in the men's EuroBasket 2011 campaign in Lithuania, playing in three of the team's five games lasting 23 minutes on court against eventual winners, Spain.
Devon commented on being named British Basketball's Emerging Athlete 2011: "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. 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 awards: "Both Julie and Devon have had great seasons for GB this summer and I congratulate them on their awards. 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."