#TBT: 50 Seasons of Boys Hoops Finals

May 9, 2014

By Geoff Kimmerly
Second Half editor

Much like fashion, MHSAA trophies have evolved over the years. 

This week's "throwback" gives us a peek at some of both as they were in 1974, when the MHSAA celebrated 50 seasons of Boys Basketball Finals. 

Holding these championship trophies are Vern Norris (left) and Al Bush, two of four who have served as executive directors of the MHSAA (Bush from 1968-78 and Norris as his successor until 1986 after serving as associate director).  

The Finals of 1974 were the last hosted by Michigan State University's Jenison Field House. Champions that season were Birmingham Brother Rice, Muskegon Heights, Bay City All Saints and Ann Arbor St. Thomas. 

Moment: Orioles' Winner Unforgettable

March 24, 2020

By Geoff Kimmerly
Second Half editor

Ludington’s Joshua Laman couldn’t have picked a better time to drill his first 3-pointer of the 2016-17 season. 

Today’s #MHSAAMoments highlight relives a shot we said the Orioles, and River Rouge, likely would never forget. 

On March 24, 2017, Laman made his first 3-pointer that winter to send Ludington – playing in its first Semifinal in this sport since 1971 – to its first MHSAA boys basketball championship game since 1953 with a 51-50 win over the Panthers.

Ludington coach Thad Shank after: “He’s thinking that when I get back in that locker room, he’s going to look Coach Shank in the eye and say, ‘Told you coach I should be shooting these 3s all year long.’ I know that’s what he’s thinking.”

Click to read Second Half's coverage – Stunner Sends Ludington to Saturday – and watch the shot below with coverage from the NFHS Network.