And now for the winner(s):
1st (tie) - Mikey Bergman (Billy Hoyles Boys)
Total votes: 22
Season stats: 13.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists. Average rating: 11.5
3rd among U21s in points per game
2nd among U21s in assists per game
Best performance: Bergman piled on 30 points and pulled down 7 rebounds to lead the Boys to victory over the Wombats (bastard)
Bergman had a steady season, as one of the rising stars of newly promoted Billy Hoyles Boys. Bergman was relied upon to share some of the scoring burden, and quickly showed himself as one of the better defenders in the ABBL. Bergman was a major part of the Boys almost making the playoffs, and is a worthy (joint) winner of the rising star. The Boys will be hoping that Bergman can improve his shot selection and scoring ability in future seasons, and if so, Bergman promises to be one of the best players in the ABBL for many seasons to come.
1st (tie) Jackson Goodall (Wombats)
Total votes: 22
Season stats: 14.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3 assists. Average rating: 10.5
Lead U21s in points per game
5th among U21s in assists per game
10th among U21s in rebounds per game
Best performance: Goodall dominated the Jets, with a 39 points 9 rebound performance.
Often forced into a backup role behind the Wombat's "big 3", Goodall excelled when given the opportunity to start. Goodall topped 20 points 7 times, and will press the likes of Grigg and Gafa for a starting spot over the coming season. Goodall will still need to work on his all round game, but if he continues to improve, there is much to be excited about for this young prospect.
Congrats to Goodall and Bergman!