Playing in their first Olympic Games ever, the Standard Life GB women were not able to register a victory in London but they won many admirers en route, giving a good account of themselves against some of the world's elite.
Natalie Stafford impressed British Basketball with her 100% free throw success during the London Olympic Games as she was the only player to do this across all competing teams. In addition, Stafford achieved an average of 15.6 points per game in front of the home crowds, the most of any guard at the competition. Her determination and uncompromising defence inspired those around her and helped keep GB close in big matches as she led the team from the front.
Stafford commented on receiving the accolade: "I am extremely proud and excited to receive this award. 2012 was a tough year where I ate, slept and breathed basketball. A lot of sacrifice went into my preparation for the London Olympics, but it was all definitely worth it. The support at the basketball games was amazing and although we didn't win a game, the home crowd were fantastic and totally behind us.
"Personally I was the fittest I have ever been in my life and I most certainly played the best basketball of my life, at 35 years old that makes it even more special. But, I couldn't have done it without the coaching and support staff or my wonderful teammates. We all pushed each other to be the best we could be. My husband and family also suffered endless Olympic diets, fitness and talk so a big thank you for their support too."
For the second year, British Basketball also announced the winner of the 'Emerging Athlete' honour which recognises the rising stars of the sport. In 2011, Devon van Oostrum won the inaugural award but in 2012, his under-20 teammate, Alasdair Fraser claimed the title.
Fraser was nominated following some great performances for the GB under-20 team last year, including being top scorer for GB at the European Championships with a 19.7 point per game average ranking him the tournament's third highest scorer.
Fraser was also the tournament's top ranking player in field goals made and two-point field goals attempted and made. His dominance of the key meant GB were able to have a huge inside threat that the opponents found difficult to handle. He is currently playing in the NCAA in the USA and going from strength to strength with his college, Maine.
Fraser commented on receiving the award: "I am very grateful to everyone who I have worked with at British Basketball and am very proud to receive this honour. It was unexpected to win the award with such great competition from other players and I am over the moon to receive this news.
"I am very honoured to be able to play for Great Britain, simply being able to represent my country is amazing and this award is really an added bonus. I am happy that I have been able to contribute to the GB national team and hope to be able to continue to contribute in the future."
British Basketball Performance Director, Chris Spice commented on both Stafford and Fraser's awards: "Natalie and Ali both epitomise everything that Great Britain basketball stands for, particularly in such a historic year for the sport. They both are great competitors and leave nothing on the court every time they play. I want to congratulate them both on having outstanding seasons for their respective GB teams and of course for these awards which are richly deserved. I hope our funding issues can be resolved so that these world-class athletes can continue to play international basketball on the world stage against the world's best for many years to come."
