Mountain Hawks look back at season at annual “Zell” Awards Banquet
Posted: 04/28/2011
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Lehigh men’s basketball team held its annual “Zell” Awards Banquet last weekend to look back at a strong 2010-11 season. The evening included a special welcome from Murray H. Goodman Dean of Athletics Joe Sterrett while Radio Announcer Matt Kerr served as the Master of Ceremonies. Seniors reflected on their careers while the team’s postseason awards were handed out.
Sophomore C.J. McCollum was honored as the Athlete of the Year, senior Rob Keefer took home the Scholar-Athlete Award and senior Michael Ojo received the Coaches Award. In addition, seniors Keefer, Ojo, David Safstrom and Prentice Small looked back at successful careers which saw them win a Patriot League Championship and advance to the semifinal round this past year.
McCollum continued the momentum from a stellar freshman campaign, averaging 21.8 points per game, tops in the Patriot League and ninth in the nation. He was named First Team All-Patriot League for a second straight season, while also being named an honorable mention Mid-Major All-American. In addition, he earned NABC First Team All-District and USBWA All-District laurels. McCollum not only led the team in points, but also in steals, rebounds and free throw percentage.
Keefer earned the Scholar-Athlete Award for his continued success, on and off the court. Lehigh’s second Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award Candidate in as many years, Keefer owns a strong 3.42 GPA as a Finance major. He has also excelled on the court, serving as a team captain, while playing in 29 games (three starts) and averaging 2.7 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. His highlight performance came against Lafayette when he scored 10 points in a Senior Day to remember.
Ojo received the Coaches Award, presented to the student-athlete who exemplifies outstanding work ethic and leadership, on and off the court. One of three co-captains, Ojo finished third on the Mountain Hawks with 10.9 points per game, while also adding 4.2 rebounds per contest (fourth). He also led the team and was second in the Patriot League with his 40.2 three-point percentage. Ojo’s influence was felt in all aspects of the team, serving as one of the team’s most vocal leaders as well.
The Sixth Man Award went to trainer Jena Etnoyer. In her second year at Lehigh, Etnoyer has worked tirelessly with the men’s basketball program.