For just the second time in program history, the conference's best defensive player is an Alberta Panda.

Third-year Pandas forward Claire Signatovich was named the 2023 Canada West Defensive Player of the Year, as CW released their major award winners on Wednesday. Jessilyn Fairbanks is the only other Panda to win this award, doing so in 2016. 

Signatovich turned in one the most dominant seasons ever by a Pandas forward, contributing at both ends of the floor. In 20 conference games, Signatovich averaged 13.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. The Winnipeg product finished second in the nation in rebounding, and fourth in Canada in total blocks. 

"Claire is an anchor of our team defense. Her ability to track rebounds, alter shots, and guard multiple positions make her a force on the defensive end of the floor," said Pandas head coach Scott Edwards. "She is one of the most gifted defenders we have ever coached. The combination of her athletic attributes, leadership, and competitiveness have been keys to our teams' success this season."

Her 13 double-doubles also set a new Pandas single-season record, as did her 38 blocks and 94 offensive rebounds, with her 252 rebounds the second most in Pandas history. 

Signatovich will now be the Canada West nominee for the U SPORTS Defensive Player of the Year award.  

2023 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL AWARD WINNERS

Player of the Year
Carly Ahlstrom, Saskatchewan Huskies

Defensive Player of the Year
Claire Signatovich, Alberta Pandas

Rookie of the Year
Logan Reider, Saskatchewan Huskies

Student-Athlete Community Service Award
Shannon Majeau, MacEwan Griffins

Courage Overcoming Adversity Award                                                                   
Madeleine Tell, Regina Cougars

Coach of the Year
Dave Taylor, Regina Cougars