Basketball

Ant Hendawg: From Hometown Hero to Hollywood Courts

Published

1 year ago

August 25, 2023

The story of Anthony Henderson Jr. aka Ant Hendawg reads like a Hollywood script itself – a tale of a young athlete’s meteoric rise from a local standout to a sought-after actor in the entertainment industry. From his days as a high school basketball sensation to becoming a Basketball Specialist at Second Spectrum and later starring in popular sports shows and music videos, Henderson’s journey is one of dedication, versatility, and unwavering determination.

Hailing from Toledo, Ohio, Anthony Henderson Jr. quickly made a name for himself on the basketball court during his tenure at Start High School. His exceptional talent and commitment to the game caught the eye of many, culminating in his recognition as the Toledo Blade High School Player of the Year in 2010. This accolade was a testament to his skill, determination, and ability to excel under pressure.

Continuing his basketball journey, Henderson attended Bowling Green State University, where he further honed his skills on the court. His time at the university solidified his reputation as a gifted athlete and showcased his dedication to the sport. The experiences gained during his college years would later contribute to the diverse skill set that set him apart in the entertainment industry.

After a season of playing professional basketball in Canada, Henderson faced a pivotal decision: continue his athletic career or embark on a new path. Opting for the latter, he made the bold move to Los Angeles, where he began to explore opportunities beyond the basketball court. His passion for the game led him to a unique role as a Basketball Specialist at Second Spectrum, a company known for its sports analytics solutions.

Henderson’s journey in Los Angeles took an unexpected turn as his charisma and presence drew the attention of Hollywood insiders. His transition from analyzing basketball to acting out scenes on-screen seemed seamless. His portrayal of basketball roles in various sports shows, such as HBO’s “Winning Time,” allowed him to blend his firsthand knowledge of the game with his burgeoning acting talent.

The highlights of Henderson’s Hollywood career continued to accumulate. He stepped onto the basketball court for roles in popular projects like the 2023 remake of “White Men Can’t Jump,” a nostalgic tribute to the original hit film. Beyond sports shows, he showcased his acting prowess in TV series like “Love, Victor” on Hulu, adding to his repertoire of versatile performances.

Making waves in the music world, Henderson’s appearance in the music video “Dennis Rodman” by ASAP Ferg and Tyga, alongside the legendary Dennis Rodman himself, further solidified his status as an entertainment industry mainstay.

Anthony Henderson Jr.’s journey from a standout high school athlete in Toledo to a multifaceted entertainer in the heart of Hollywood is a testament to the power of chasing one’s passions. His transition from basketball to acting showcases the depth of his talents and his willingness to embrace new challenges. With each role he takes on, Henderson’s narrative of dedication and adaptability continues to inspire individuals to push beyond their boundaries and pursue the uncharted paths that beckon them. As he blazes a trail through both the sports and entertainment worlds, Anthony Henderson Jr. exemplifies the remarkable potential that lies within the convergence of passion and perseverance.

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Basketball

Play by Play Ep 44: The Winning Formula vs. Falling Apart

Published

2 days ago

November 19, 2024

Jesse Coleman

n this episode of Play by Play with Jesse Coleman, we break down the winning formula behind the Cleveland Cavaliers’ perfect 15-0 start and how teams like the 11-3 Boston Celtics and 9-4 Los Angeles Lakers are staying dominant early in the NBA season. What sets these teams apart, and how are they building their success?

On the flip side, we shift gears to the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys’ struggles, as they drop to 3-7 amidst a season filled with inconsistency and missed opportunities. Is it a lack of leadership, poor execution, or something deeper? Tune in as we explore what it takes to win—and why some teams just can’t seem to find their rhythm. #NBA #DallasCowboys #Lakers

Basketball

Episode 42: Shooting Science & WNBA Spotlight with BriAnna Garza

Published

3 weeks ago

October 31, 2024

Jesse Coleman

In this episode of Play by Play with Jesse Coleman, we’re joined by BriAnna Garza, a skilled shooting coach, educator, and the host of 2024’s “Changing The Game” event during March Madness. Brianna shares her insights into the physics of shooting, breaking down the mechanics that can elevate a player’s accuracy and consistency on the court.

We also dive into the exciting 2024 WNBA season, discussing the league’s growth and standout players like Caitlin Clark, who continue to push the game to new heights. Plus, Brianna gives her expert take on the struggles Mikal Bridges has faced with the New York Knicks and explores what adjustments could help refine his jump shot.

From the art of shooting to the WNBA’s impact and player analysis, this episode offers a unique perspective from a true game-changer.

Tune in to Play by Play with Jesse Coleman for this insightful conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Basketball

A Hall of Fame Journey from the Cherrywoods to Basketball Greatness

Published

3 weeks ago

October 28, 2024

Jesse Coleman

In the storied history of Toledo City League basketball, few players have left a mark as deep and unforgettable as Shareese Ulis (McBrayer). A three-time City League Player of the Year and two-time District Player of the Year, Shareese’s legacy is one of resilience, perseverance, and unparalleled talent. Through her high school career, she battled through some of the league’s toughest competition, repeatedly proving her dominance and earning a place among the legends of Ohio high school basketball.

Dominance on the Court

From her junior season, where she led the City League in scoring with 19.1 points per game, 6 assists, and 4 steals, Shareese commanded attention. Her accolades are numerous: three-time First Team All-District, two-time First Team All-State, and MVP of the North/South All-Star Game. She was a nominee for the prestigious McDonald’s All-American team and was named Ohio State Player of the Year. Shareese incredible stats and honors are a testament to her skill and drive, but they only tell part of her story.

Rising from the Cherrywoods

Fourteen years later, Shareese reflects on her journey, remembering her roots in Toledo’s Cherrywoods neighborhood—a place where survival was often as challenging as her on-court opponents. She recalls the hardship of growing up around violence, where gunshots were all too common and dreams were hard to come by. Raised in an environment where many lacked a clear vision or foundation for the future, Shareese found solace and purpose in basketball.

The game entered her life when she was 12, inspired by watching Allen Iverson play on TV. That spark was all she needed. Without prior experience or knowledge of the game, she dedicated herself to becoming not just good but great. She couldn’t dribble with her left hand or make a layup at first, yet her commitment drove her to master these skills and more, transforming her into a player who would carry her family’s name with pride and break new ground as the first in her family to achieve these milestones.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Basketball became Shareese’s ticket to a brighter future and a way to inspire those around her. She didn’t just play for personal accolades—she played for her family, her community, and the legacy she would leave behind. Now, as she adds “Hall of Famer” to her list of accomplishments, she recognizes her journey as more than a collection of trophies and titles. It’s a story of hope, strength, and the ability to rise above any challenge.

Shareese Ulis (McBrayer) exemplifies what it means to be a champion both on and off the court. She turned obstacles into opportunities, and by doing so, she paved the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy will inspire young athletes who are looking for hope, for an example, and for a reminder that greatness can come from even the most difficult circumstances. Today, we celebrate Shareese—a true legend, a Toledo City League Hall of Famer, and a symbol of what hard work and resilience can achieve.