April 7, 2006
RENO, Nev. - Juniors Jessica Preslar and Traci Graham, along with sophomore Cherlanda Franklin, were named winners of the three major awards at the University of Nevada women's basketball awards banquet held here Friday night in the Hall of Fame Room of Legacy Hall on the university campus.
Jessica Preslar (Forward, Roseville, Calif.) won the Player Award as the most consistent, all-around squad member as voted on by the coaching staff. Preslar, the team's rebounding leader with 5.4 per outing, started 26 of the Pack's 30 games and was third on the team with 8.2 points per game. She was also third in blocks and assists in addition to ranking fifth in steals.
Franklin (Forward, Phoenix, Ariz.) picked up the Hammer Award for being the toughest, most aggressive player and for giving an all-out effort. She averaged 5.4 points (seventh) and 4.1 rebounds (fourth) and was second in blocks, third in steals, and probably the best defender on the team.
Graham (Guard, Reno, Nev.) was honored with the Pack Pride Award, exemplifying everything the coaching staff wants in a player -- tough, consistent play with a fearless attitude and tons of heart. Graham led the team in starts (29), minutes (28.6 p/game) and three-pointers (24) and was second in steals and assists. She also averaged 8.2 points (tied for third) and 3.1 rebounds (fifth).
Also receiving awards were Nevada's major category statistical leaders and co-captains: freshman guard Brandi Fitzgerald (Moreno Valley, Calif.) led the team in steals and scoring; freshman guard Dellena Criner (Oakland, Calif.) was tops in assists; Preslar paced the team in rebounding; and Graham and senior guard Kate Saltmarsh (Eugene, Ore.) each picked up Captains' Awards.
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