Dean led the British Columbia Colleges' Athletics Association (BCCAA) in scoring, averaging 27.89 points per game, a full six points per game higher than the league's second-highest scorer. Dean first came to play for UNBC in 2000, after graduating from Terry Fox Secondary in Port Coquitlam. He has represented BC on the under-19 team and has been named a first-team all-star for the BCCAA this year.

"It's rare for second-year players to receive this national honour and is a testament to Dean's work ethic and outstanding skills. He scored more than 500 points this year, a full 100 points more than the next highest scorer in the league," says Zane Robison, coach of the UNBC men's basketball team. "He helped lead our team to its second straight playoff appearance this year, after only our third season of varsity play."

In the program's three year history, it has produced two All-Canadian athletes. "Having such top-quality athletes in our program has helped in our development," says Robison. "It also demonstrates that our top athletes have had great opportunities to reach their full potential." Last year, Dana Larsen of Prince George was recognized as an All-Canadian.

In the 2001-2002 season, the UNBC Northern Timberwolves posted their best record ever, finishing the season with nine wins and nine losses.

Note for media: click here for a high-res photo of Dean Whalen