Toppin, Grant claim top AP honors as Dayton sweeps awards

Dayton swept The Associated Press' college basketball awards Tuesday, as Obi Toppin was announced as the national player of the year while Anthony Grant claimed national coach of the year honors.

"In the 31 games that we played, our guys did a heck of a job of playing consistent and taking advantage of the opportunities that were in front of us," Grant told The Associated Press' Aaron Beard. "What we did accomplish in the shortened season is something I think that, hopefully, will be remembered."

Toppin edged out Iowa star Luka Garza 34-24 in the ballots to become the first Dayton player to receive the honor.

The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 20 points, 7.5 boards, 2.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks across 31 appearances. On Friday, Toppin was unanimously selected to the AP All-American first team.

Grant edged out Baylor's Scott Drew and San Diego State's Brian Dutcher for top head coaching honors. The 53-year-old led the Flyers to a 29-2 overall record - including an undefeated run in A-10 play.

Dayton also matched a program record by finishing third in the final AP poll of the season.