Deaundra Tanner Selected MVP of the Men's Basketball Team
June 4, 1999
Corvallis, Ore. - Oregon State University sophomore guard Deaundra Tanner has been selected the mens basketball programs most valuable player, it was announced Friday by Head Coach Eddie Payne. The award, which is officially presented as the Ralph Miller Award, was voted on by team members.
Tanner, a 62" native of Inglewood, Cal., earned first team All-Pac-10 and all-district honors for his efforts during the 1998-99 season. He led the team in scoring at 15.8 points per game and assists at 4.7. Tanner was one of two Beavers to start all 27 games during the season and was the only player to average over 30 minutes per contest.
Junior guard Ramunas Petraitis was selected the teams Paul Valenti Award recipient. The award honors the player who "exhibits the greatest desire and determination." Petraitis, who often drew the teams toughest defensive assignment, also started all 27 games. He averaged 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds.
Sophomore guard Josh Steinthal received the Lew Beck and Ed Lewis Awards. The Beck Award is given to the most outstanding newcomer and the Lewis Award signifies the player who exemplifies the most leadership. Steinthal averaged 11.9 points and drained 57 three-point field goals for the season.
Sophomore center Jason Heide received the Jim Anderson Award for the most improved player. Heide averaged 10.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and shot .540 from the field.
The Beaver coaching staff awarded the entire 1998-99 team the Slats Gill Award. The Gill Award recognizes dedication to the program.
