Taj Gibson and Daniel Hackett share USC MVP honors

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USC announced their annual men’s basketball team awards at a banquet this week, with juniors Taj Gibson and Daniel Hackett sharing MVP honors.

It was a logical selection for the two players who were the heart and soul of a team that made an unexpected run to the Pac-10 tournament title and an upset victory over Boston College in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Gibson, the Pac-10 defensive player of the year, was an imposing presence in the low post and set the school’s career record for blocks. Hackett’s consistent passion and occasional moments of on-court brilliance were critical during their late season charge.

Both players are considered potential NBA draft picks, with Hackett doing the most to improve his status this season. Many thought that Gibson would leave last year, and at his age (24), many think that he will make the jump. Both players have one more year of eligibility and have until an April 26 deadline to announce their decision. After announcing, they could still change their minds and return up until June 15.

DeMar DeRozan, the highly touted diaper dandy, was also honored as the most improved (along with fellow freshman Nikola Vucevic) and, interestingly, the most coachable. Leonard Washington was named the team’s top sixth man, though he would have been considered a starter if it weren’t for mid-season injuries. The full list of honorees:

-- Adam Rose