Topeka ? Kansas University All-American basketball forward Wayne Simien was honored today in the Capitol as a great athlete and role model.

KU basketball senior Wayne Simien, center, is given a standing ovation in the House of Representatives at the Topeka Statehouse Wednesday for being an All-American for the Jayhawks this year. Simien was joined by his family from left, his father and mother Wayne, Sr. and Margaret Simien and his sister Dione Leng. At right is KU men's basketball coach Bill Self. Simien was honored in both chambers at the statehouse and met with Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Proclamations signed by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and approved in the House and Senate praised Simien for his play, academic skills and high morals.

Rep. Kenny Wilk, R-Lansing, described Simien of Leavenworth as “the very best Kansas has to offer. He is a true All-American citizen, human being and outstanding ambassador for the state of Kansas.”

Simien, accompanied by his family and KU Coach Bill Self, spoke briefly, saying, “It has become quite a cliche, but there’s no place like home.”

Photo Gallery: Simien honored at Statehouse KUSports.com

Self said as great a ballplayer as Simien is, he is an even greater person.

“I never coached a better kid,” he said.

For more on this story, see the 6News reports at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Sunflower Broadband’s Channel 6 and pick up a copy of Thursday’s J-W.