Basketball
Beyond Borders: Brian Roberts’ Legacy in Toledo to International Courts
Brian Roberts, a basketball standout hailing from Toledo, Ohio, emerged as a determined force in the game of basketball, leaving an enduring impact on both the local and international stages. Graduating from St. John’s High School in 2004, Roberts showcased his prowess with three-time Associated Press All-Ohio selections and pivotal contributions that guided St. John’s to the state championship game.
His journey continued at the University of Dayton from 2004 to 2008, where Roberts’s four-year college basketball career unfolded with remarkable achievements. Averaging 15.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, he garnered numerous accolades, including Atlantic 10 All-Rookie team honors, All-Atlantic 10 second team honors (twice), and All-Atlantic 10 first team honors. Notably, Roberts was recognized for his academic excellence with Atlantic 10 All-Academic team honors and NABC Division I All-District 10 first team honors.
Despite facing the setback of not being drafted in the 2008 NBA draft, Roberts showcased resilience by joining the Orlando Magic’s and Los Angeles Lakers’ summer league squads. His journey then led him to Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa in Israel for the 2008–09 season, marking the beginning of his international endeavors.
In 2012, Roberts caught the attention of the NBA once again, joining the New Orleans Hornets’ summer league squad. This opportunity led to a multi-year NBA deal with the Hornets, and on March 25, 2013, he delivered a standout performance with a career-high 18 assists, aiding the team in snapping the Denver Nuggets’ 15-game winning streak. The following April, the Hornets transformed into the Pelicans, and Roberts continued to shine, finishing the 2013–14 NBA season with the highest free throw percentage.
Roberts’s NBA journey included trades to the Miami Heat and later to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2016. His debut with the Trail Blazers, contributing seven points in a victory over the Golden State Warriors, added another chapter to his impactful career.
In 2018, Roberts embraced a new challenge, signing a one-year deal with the Spanish club Unicaja. His final playing year was in 2019, concluding a remarkable career characterized by determination, resilience, and a consistent pursuit of excellence on the basketball court. Brian Roberts remains a Toledo basketball legend, leaving an inspiring legacy for aspiring players in the game.
Basketball
Play by Play Ep 44: The Winning Formula vs. Falling Apart
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
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
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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