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Nigel Hayes: From Ohio’s Courts to EuroLeague Stardom

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In the world of basketball, success stories often emerge from the most unexpected places. Nigel Hayes, a talented forward who rose to prominence from his high school days in Ohio to playing in the prestigious EuroLeague, is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance.

Nigel Hayes first made waves in the basketball world during his time at Whitmer High School in Toledo, Ohio. Known for his versatility on the court, Hayes quickly became a star player for the Whitmer Panthers. His exceptional skills, work ethic, and dedication to the game earned him recognition not only in Ohio but also on the national high school basketball scene.

Hayes’ standout performances at Whitmer attracted the attention of college recruiters, ultimately leading him to the University of Wisconsin.

At the University of Wisconsin, Nigel Hayes continued to showcase his basketball prowess. He became an integral part of the Wisconsin Badgers’ team under the guidance of coach Bo Ryan. Hayes was known for his strong defensive presence, scoring ability, and leadership on and off the court.

One of his career highlights was helping lead the Badgers to back-to-back Final Four appearances in the NCAA tournament in 2014 and 2015. His contributions earned him All-Big Ten honors and solidified his reputation as a top college player.

Despite his success in college, Nigel Hayes faced a challenging road to the NBA. After going undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft, he continued to pursue his dream of playing professional basketball.

Hayes didn’t give up. He earned a spot with the New York Knicks, signing a contract in 2017. While his time with the Knicks was brief, it was a testament to his determination and willingness to work tirelessly to achieve his goals.

Nigel Hayes’ journey eventually led him to the EuroLeague, where he found a new home and an opportunity to shine on the international stage. Currently playing in Europe, Hayes is a valuable asset for his team.

His EuroLeague profile showcases his ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor. With his athleticism, defensive skills, and scoring ability, he has become a valuable player in one of the world’s top basketball leagues.

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You can follow Nigel Hayes’ EuroLeague journey and witness his continued growth and success on the hardwood here.

Nigel Hayes’ basketball journey is a testament to the resilience and determination required to make it in the competitive world of professional basketball. From Whitmer High School to the EuroLeague, Hayes continues to inspire aspiring basketball players with his dedication to the game and unwavering pursuit of excellence on the court.

Basketball

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

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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

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Basketball

Episode 42: Shooting Science & WNBA Spotlight with BriAnna Garza

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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!

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A Hall of Fame Journey from the Cherrywoods to Basketball Greatness

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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.

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