March 18, 2009

OREM, Utah - Utah Valley University's Ryan Toolson was named to the Division I All-Independent First Team while Josh Olsen was named to the second team in a vote by coaches and sports information directors from the nation's 14 D-I independent schools.

Toolson, the 2007-08 Independent Player of the Year, averaged 23.8 points in over 37 minutes per game for head coach Dick Hunsaker. Toolson, one of greatest free throw shooters in NCAA history, made 93.9 percent (494-for-526) from the line in his career, placing him second all-time.

"Ryan was the best player in independent basketball," said Hunsaker. "He's very deserving of every honor he receives."

Toolson's career average of 19.1 points per game is second in the school record book while his 2,163 points is a school record. His 63 points in a 123-121, four-overtime win at Chicago State on Jan. 29 is an NCAA season-high.

Olsen earned a spot on the second team after averaging career highs of 11.2 points and 3.6 assists per game.

"Josh had an outstanding senior year," said Hunsaker "His value to the team was certainly measured. While he was injured the team went 1-4 and after his return we finished 9-3."

Chicago State's David Holston was named the player of the year while his coach, Benjy Taylor, earned coach of the year honors. South Dakota's Tyler Cain earned the defensive player of the year award and North Carolina's Jamar Briscoe was tabbed newcomer of the year.

                        Josh Olsen