Boucher credited the entire Northwest program and Powell community for his ascension to the NJCAA’s peak.
“Player of the Year ... I didn’t make it by myself,” Boucher said. “Everything that I got — that we got — this year is because …
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Chris Boucher had only one year to make his mark on Northwest College basketball, instead he left his signature on the entire nation.
The 6-10 transfer from New Mexico Junior College led the Trappers to a 31-5 record and a national tournament run that was halted in the quarterfinals, earning National Player of the Year honors in the process.
Boucher credited the entire Northwest program and Powell community for his ascension to the NJCAA’s peak.
“Player of the Year ... I didn’t make it by myself,” Boucher said. “Everything that I got — that we got — this year is because of the team, the coaches ... even the athletic trainers and you media guys. You all pushed me to be what I am now.”
Boucher led the Trappers with 22.5 points per game (eighth in the nation), 11.8 rebounds (fifth) and 4.7 blocks per game (third).
His success and gaudy numbers — plus a rare ability to shoot 3-pointers (44.4 percent as a sophomore) — drew the attention of high-level college scouts.
Boucher took his talents to Oregon, where he is the fourth-leading scorer (11.9 ppg), leading rebounder (8.9 rpg) and leading shot blocker (3.4 bpg) for the Ducks.
NWC head coach Brian Erickson said the attention and accolades thrown Boucher’s way are no fluke.
“He’s earned all of this,” Erickson said. “I couldn’t be more proud of him and what he’s accomplished the entire year and helped our team accomplish.”
Boucher, a native of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was also a first team NJCAA All-American.