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Ericka Haney: A Timeless Inspiration for Toledo’s Young Athletes

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Born on July 13, 1980, Ericka Haney is more than just a Toledo Central Catholic basketball legend; she’s an enduring source of inspiration for young girls in Toledo’s sports community. Standing tall at 6’0″ and boasting an impressive athletic career, Haney’s journey from her high school days to the WNBA, international play, and her impactful coaching roles is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the game and her ability to inspire others.

High School Glory

Ericka Haney’s journey to becoming an iconic figure in Toledo sports began at Toledo Central Catholic High School. During her senior year, she averaged an impressive 16 points and 11 rebounds per game, showcasing her prowess as a forward. Her incredible talent and dedication to the game are exemplified by the fact that she still holds the school record for career points with 1,353 and career rebounds with 1,124. Haney’s achievements on the basketball court were just the beginning of her remarkable sports career.

Versatility Beyond Basketball

While Haney’s prowess on the basketball court is well-documented, she was a multi-sport athlete who excelled in various disciplines. She took her skills to the volleyball court, contributing to her school’s success, and earned recognition as an All-American in track and field. Her versatility and determination were evident not only in her basketball skills but also in her ability to excel in different sports.

Collegiate Success at Notre Dame

Ericka Haney’s collegiate career took her to the University of Notre Dame, where she continued to shine as a basketball player. Her time at Notre Dame was marked by exceptional performances and a relentless work ethic. Haney’s contributions played a pivotal role in the team’s success during the 2001-2002 season, further solidifying her status as an elite athlete.

A Professional Journey

In 2002, Haney’s dreams came true when she was drafted by the Detroit Shock in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). This achievement made her a role model for aspiring female athletes in Toledo and beyond. She continued to display her skills on the international stage, playing in Sweden in 2002, which further expanded her horizons and showcased her talents on a global scale.

Coaching Career

After her playing career, Ericka Haney transitioned seamlessly into the coaching realm, where she continued to inspire young athletes. Her journey led her to various coaching positions in different basketball programs, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the talents of the next generation. Her stint as an assistant coach at Ohio State University and her role as the Director of Basketball Operations at Chicago State in 2006-07 are notable highlights in her coaching career.

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A Lasting Legacy

Ericka Haney’s enduring legacy isn’t just about her impressive statistics or her time in the spotlight. It’s about the impact she’s had on the Toledo sports community and the countless young girls who look up to her as a source of inspiration. Her journey from a high school standout to a WNBA player and a respected coach serves as a reminder that dreams can be realized with hard work, dedication, and a passion for sports.

Ericka Haney’s story is a timeless tale of perseverance, versatility, and dedication to the world of sports. As a Toledo Central Catholic basketball legend, she continues to inspire young girls in Toledo and beyond, proving that greatness knows no bounds. Her journey, marked by achievements on the court and a thriving coaching career, cements her status as a true icon in the world of women’s sports, forever motivating the next generation to reach for the stars.

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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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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