By Dustin Dow
The Cincinnati Enquirer

There were no surprises this year at the Xavier men's basketball banquet held Tuesday night. Instead, the event went as expected - as a farewell to All-American senior David West.

A little more than a year ago, West used the banquet to make a stunning announcement that he would return for his senior season. That moment set the tone for this past season in which West won national player of the year awards from the Associated Press and the United States Basketball Writers Association, becoming the most celebrated player in XU history.

More than 600 people showed up at Cintas Center Tuesday to see West with his Xavier teammates one last time before he embarks on a professional career.

Xavier coaches presented West with two final awards to add to his burgeoning collection: best free throw shooter (81.6 percent) and best defensive rebounder (8.7).

Senior guard Lionel Chalmers received the Connie Brown Most Inspirational Player Award. Chalmers, who graduates in May, will return next season with a fifth year of eligibility.

Junior Romain Sato was named the best defensive player, and junior Anthony Myles received the best offensive rebounder award. Sophomore Keith Jackson received the Lew Hirt Society Coaches' Award, while freshman Dedrick Finn earned the team assist leader award after recording 139 assists, a freshman record at Xavier.

Freshman Angelo Smith won the Gordon E. Nead Most Improved Player Award, and classmate Keenan Christiansen won the Ernest A. Staak Award, presented to the player who shows a true dedication and love for college basketball.

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E-mail ddow@enquirer.com