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Toledo Native Steve Mix: A Basketball Legend in Local Lore

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In the heart of Ohio lies the city of Toledo, a place where sports legends are born and celebrated. Among the pantheon of local heroes, Steve Mix stands tall as a basketball icon, leaving an indelible mark on the courts and in the hearts of Toledoans.

Steve Mix, born on December 30, 1947, grew up in the neighborhoods of Toledo, where his passion for basketball ignited on the asphalt courts that dotted the city. His journey from those humble beginnings to becoming a household name is a testament to both his skill and the unwavering support of his community.

Mix’s prowess on the court didn’t go unnoticed. Excelling at Rogers High School, he quickly became a star, showcasing an innate ability to score, rebound, and lead his team. His talent earned him a scholarship to the University of Toledo, where he continued to shine as a Rocket. He earned MAC Player Of The Year in 1969, 3x First Team All-MAC in 1967-1969. Mix’s collegiate success set the stage for his professional career in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

In 1969, Mix entered the NBA as a member of the Detroit Pistons. However, it was with the Philadelphia 76ers that he truly made his mark. A key contributor to the team’s success in the 1970s, Mix played alongside basketball legends like Julius Erving and George McGinnis. Known for his sharpshooting and tenacious rebounding, Mix became a fan favorite, earning the nickname “The Mayor of Mixville.”

Beyond his on-court accomplishments, Mix’s impact extended beyond the hardwood. He embraced his role as a community ambassador, using his platform to inspire the next generation of Toledo’s basketball hopefuls. Mix’s philanthropic efforts and involvement in local initiatives endeared him to the city, solidifying his status as a hometown hero.

As the years passed, Mix continued to contribute to the sport he loved. After retiring from professional play, he transitioned into coaching and broadcasting, sharing his wealth of knowledge with aspiring athletes and fans alike.

Toledoans still speak fondly of Steve Mix, reminiscing about the electric moments he brought to the court and the pride he instilled in the community. His legacy serves as a reminder that, no matter where one starts, with determination and talent, one can rise to the pinnacle of success.

In the annals of Toledo’s sporting history, Steve Mix’s name stands tall—a testament to the enduring power of local legends and the impact they have on the communities that cheer them on.

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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