"I didn't even know I was in the running for it, but it was such a good feeling.
"Hopefully I can build on this and I can take a lot of confidence for the future."
Elers believed his defensive effort won him the award, with coach Ross McMains putting faith in him to go out and lock down an opponent if needed.
Elers said he had learnt a lot about himself as a player this season and his game had developed considerably under McMains' guidance and help from his team mates - including Americans Daniel Miller and Marcus Johnson.
"It's a big step up from high school but I have really enjoyed playing this season," he said.
"Ross has done wonders with all the players. He really focused in on personal work outs for everyone and the hard work showed on the court.
"I have also been mentored by Daniel and Marcus. They bring so much experience to the game.
"They have been like big brothers to me. They have calmed me down when I've been angry or upset in game situations and they make me want to better myself."
McMains was also rewarded for his contribution to the Mountainairs' season with the league's Coach of the Year award, while organisation chairman Bernie Smith was awarded Administrator of the Year.
Elers said he would love to return to Taranaki, however it would have to wait at least four years as he makes the move to South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in the US on a scholarship in August.
He will study for a degree in metallurgical engineering whilst playing for the school's basketball team, coached by Jason Henry, who currently play in division 2 of the Rocky Mountains Athletic Conference.
"I've got four years of college coming up to play basketball and study engineering. After that I'll think about what's next, but I'd love to come back at some stage," he said.
"I want to come out with a good degree and get as much game time and experience as I can."
Henry said the team was excited for the arrival of Elmers.
"We are truly ecstatic to have Logan join the hardrocker men's basketball programme," he said.
"He has an outstanding opportunity to do very well in our system. He has a tremendous amount of athletic ability and a great skill set.
"Logan is the type of scholar-athlete that can play inside and out at a high level."
