by Rick Bustos
Daily Lobo
Ruben Douglas received team MVP honors at a banquet for the men's basketball team Tuesday night at the Marriott Pyramid.
Douglas led the team and the nation in scoring this year. He also averaged 35 minutes and six rebounds a game. He thanked his teammates and coaches for his success.
"These guys are my family, we all hang out, we all do things together, it's been a blessing," Douglas said.
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The event started with a reception, followed by the awards and dinner.
The banquet featured many speakers throughout the night including UNM Athletic Director Rudy Davalos, head coach Ritchie McKay and some Lobo players.
During the reception, players and coaches mingled with team supporters and pictures were taken of the players and coaches.
Before dinner was served and the awards were given out, the team was introduced to the crowd. Lobo legend and former head coach Bob King was recognized and given a standing ovation. Davalos spoke, projecting high hopes for the men's basketball team as well as the coaching staff in the future.
"I have total confidence Ritchie McKay will take us back to the NCAA tournament," Davalos said. "We are going to surprise some teams next year."
Junior guard Ryan Ashcraft received the Team Leadership award and the Most Improved award was shared by freshmen Mark Walters and David Chiotti. Senque Carey received the Most-Inspirational Teammate award.
"He is a man of character, and able to deal with adversity," McKay said. "A very special young man, someone who is very committed to his team."
Carey also spoke about next year's team, his plans to come back and how fast he was rehabilitating. McKay said they hoped to have Carey back next year after filing a request with the NCAA.
"I'm improving way past the time the doctors said that I would be able to comeback," Carey said. "I'm already jogging 15 minutes a day. We'll have a great team next year and I plan on being a part of that team."
Highlights of the season followed along with special recognition for the two seniors, Carey and Douglas.
McKay thanked his team and the fans for a great season.
"We have a great family here at UNM, which I am very proud to be a part of," McKay said.
