RUSTON, La. -- Essence Perry is not flashy on the court. Essence Perry is not a big-time scorer. Essence Perry is not the first name most people mention when talking about Louisiana Tech's success this season.
However, according to Lady Techster Head Coach Leon Barmore, Essence Perry was the glue that held Tech together in 2000-01.
And on Monday night during the annual Lady Techster Appreciation Banquet, the Lawton, Okla., native was rewarded for her solid contributions by being named the team's Most Valuable Player.
"Essence is a young lady who meant so much to this team all year long," Barmore said. "Her play at the point guard position allowed me to move Brooke (Lassiter) to the shooting guard. She gave us a chance to win all year."
Although Perry averaged only 5.8 points, 2.9 rebounds and 3.1 assists a game this year, the junior point guard was a staple of consistency and a workhorse, playing 1223 minutes of a possible 1440 during the year. Perry shot 35 percent from the field, 30 percent from the three-point line and 59 percent from the free throw line while recording 112 assists and a team-best 65 steals.
"Essence and Theresa Weatherspoon are the toughest two guards I've ever had at Louisiana Tech," Barmore said. "She was so tough physically and mentally all season. She is one of the most underrated players in this country."
Junior Ayana Walker earned both the Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards for Tech. Walker led the Lady Techsters on both ends of the court all year, averaging 16.0 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocked shots a contest. The Houston, Texas, native recorded 33 double-digit scoring games and 11 performances of 20 or more points.
Takeisha Lewis received the Rebounding Award after leading Tech with 9.0 boards a contest and 17 games of 10 or more rebounds. The junior center recorded a career-best 17 rebounds in Tech's East Regional semifinal win over Missouri.
The Lady Techster Award was presented to Brooke Lassiter who best exemplified the character and work ethic required to be successful in the Tech program. Lassiter, who is considered the emotional leader for the Lady Techsters, averaged 10.2 points and 5.0 assists a game while leading the nation in free throw percentage.
Sophomore guard Beverly Moore received the Academic Award after earning a perfect 4.0 grade point average during the past season. The Monroe, La., native is pursuing her degree in finance.
Over 500 fans attended the banquet honoring a Lady Techster squad that recorded a 31-5 mark and an NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearance.
