London, ON - For the second consecutive season, Ariane Saumure of the Women's Basketball team has been named the OUA Defensive Player of the Year and Emily Capretta was recognized among the top rookies as the year end major awards and all-stars were announced Wednesday afternoon.

"We feel fortunate to have two athletes recognized with awards this year as their names are added to a long list of Mustangs who have come before them." said Mustangs Women's Basketball Head Coach Nate McKibbon "Ariane and Emily are both deserving athletes who should be proud of their accomplishments. We celebrate them and look forward to seeing which Mustang will be next to be recognized!"

The Sudbury, ON native saw Saumure chip in 18.8 points per game (2nd in OUA) while she was the best in Ontario and the nation forcing turnovers, racking up an OUA and U SPORTS-best 4.3 steals per game this year, a full steal ahead of the next closest competitor. The per-contest average puts the second team all-star among the all-time leaders in the category across the country, while her 95 total thefts on the year ranks her second all-time.

"Winning two years in a row is such an honour and a privilege that I am so grateful for. I wouldn't have been able to do it without my awesome coach and team." said Saumure "Although the game of basketball is about the team as one functioning unit and less about personal accolades, it's always nice to be recognized for hard work."

Saumure was also a force on the glass as she ranked third in the province with 150 defensive rebounds for the season, good for 6.8 per game.

This marks the fifth time a Mustang was selected for as  the top defender nod.

"I think I'm most proud of my defensive game. Being able to play lock down defence and to give your all to that aspect of the game is something you can bring everyday, regardless of how your offensive play is going." said Saumure "I really pride myself on that because even tho you might not be scoring as much as you usually can one particular game, defence is something you can always demonstrate and show up for."

The OUA awards also saw 1st year Mustangs Emily Capretta named to the All-Rookie team. She led the nation in total points for a first year student athlete. After not playing in the preseason this year she continued to improve each week and became a key contributor later in the season.

"Being named to the OUA All-Rookie team means a lot to me. It's nice to see the work you put in be recognized." said Capretta "I've learned a lot from some of the leaders we have on the team and it's amazing watching them grow. I've also learned from my own mistakes, whether that be in game or practice."

For a full list of award winners go to https://oua.ca/news/2023/3/1/womens-basketball-powerhouse-point-producer-gates-gets-mvp-nod-for-maroon-and-grey.aspx