James Augustine named Sixth Man of the Year

Khimki forward James Augustine has been named the 2013-2014 VTB United League’s Sixth Man of the Year.

The prize for the best bench player (must have entered more than 50% of League games from the bench) was first established this season. The League’s expert panel, featuring seven basketball legends from five League countries—Ivan Edeshko (Russia), Jiri Zidek (Czech Republic), Ilona Korstin (Russia), Armand Kraulins (Latvia), Tomas Pacesas (Lithuania), Sergei Tarakanov (Russia) and Heino Enden (Estonia)—made the final selection.

Following a poll of the expert panel, Khimki’s James Augustine picked up the most votes (3 of 7). Moscow Region’s American forward beat out CSKA center Nenad Krstic (2 votes), as well as Lietuvos Rytas guard Renaldas Seibutis and Astana guard Janis Blums (1 vote each) for the Sixth Man of the Year award.

During the VTB United League regular season, James Augustine played in 16 games (starting 14 games on the bench), and averaged 13.3 points (73.8% shooting from within the arc and 50% from the 3-pt line) to go with 7.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.2 blocks and an efficiency rating of 21.1.

Augustine’s numbers were so good that he managed to lead the entire league in efficiency rating, not just bench players. The Khimki forward was huge for his club, playing a key role in Moscow Region’s historic 18-0 season. Khimki’s two games against CSKA were especially memorable, with Augustine playing his best in the second contest, scoring 31 points and draining the game-winning 3-point buzzer-beater.

James Augustine will his receive his Sixth Man of the Year award during the playoffs.

- Of course, this is an honor for me, - Augustine said in an interview with VTB-League.com. – This season, I’m starting games on the bench, whereas last year I played in the starting five. I actually kind of like being a sixth man. Plus, Kreso Loncar and Sergey Monia start and do an excellent job, so it’s a lot easier for me to sub in for our starting big men. I just go on the court and try to do everything I can to help the team. We’re playing well this season, but the most important part is coming up—the playoffs. We need to work even better in order to end on top. I hope we keep it going.