The North Branch boys basketball team had their season ending awards banquet Thursday March 29.

Head Coach Bill Baumann introduced managers Sara Fletcher and Alex Sundley and talked about how vital their contributions were to the program. Baumann introduced varsity volunteer coach Jeremy Miller and then introduced the varsity players and discussed the season. He said the teams 11-16 was disappointing and frustrating, as they were ahead or had the chance to take the lead in the final minutes in seven of their losses. In three of their losses they had stretches of more than six minutes where they didn't score.

North Branch also beat state participants Spring Lake Park and Duluth Central on their home courts as well as played Benilde St. Margaret's tough on their home court.

Though the season was frustrating record wise, Baumann said it was rewarding working with the young men. They were hard working and never gave up even though they were frustrated with losing, he said.

He thanked the seniors and described them as some of the hardest workers he has had in coaching.

Nick Perrin ended his career tied for 8th overall in career scoring, 7th in 3pt made, 13th on assists and 12th in steals. Justin Novak finished 33rd in scoring, 10th in assists, 2nd in steals and 25th in 3pt made. Junior Jake Chambers finished the year 5th in career scoring, 8th in 3pt made, 17th in assists and 25th in steals.

Team awards were handed out in various categories.

Special Team Award

Jake Kovarik

Will to Win

Mark Johnson

Rookie of the Year

DJ Charley and Eric Sampson

Defensive Player of the Year

Justin Novak

Viking Award

Nick Perrin

All-Conference

Jake Chambers

All-Conference Honorable Mention

Justin Novak

Nick Perrin

Academic All-Conference

DJ Charley

Mark Johnson

Nick Perrin