Wesley Chapel forward Erik Thomas has been named the Class 5A player of the year by the Florida Dairy Farmers, the association announced Thursday afternoon.
Thomas, the Times’ North Suncoast player of the year, ranked among the state’s most prolific players. He averaged more than 32 points and 16 rebounds per game while shooting 56 percent from the field. He also averaged 3.4 assists and 2.9 steals to help the Wildcats win their first district title in seven years.
Thomas becomes a finalist for the state’s Mr. Basketball award.
Jesuit’s Neal Goldman was named the 5A coach of the year. He led the Tigers to a 31-1 record and the program’s first state title since 1984.