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.

Mark Kerr, born in Toledo, Ohio, to Tom and Mary Kerr, is a name etched in the annals of mixed martial arts (MMA) and wrestling history. His father, of Irish descent, and his Puerto Rican mother raised Kerr in a household where dreams of athletic grandeur were nurtured from an early age. Kerr’s childhood in Toledo was marked by mock wrestling matches with his younger siblings, all inspired by his aspiration to one day step into the World Wrestling Federation (WWE) ring.

Kerr’s formal wrestling journey began in 1983 as a freshman at Bettendorf High School in Bettendorf, Iowa. There, he shared the wrestling room with another future MMA luminary, Pat Miletich, then a senior. However, Kerr’s family soon moved back to Toledo, where he attended Toledo Waite High School and clinched the high school state championship title.

Kerr’s wrestling prowess blossomed further at Syracuse University. In 1992, he emerged as the NCAA Division I champion at 190 pounds, defeating none other than Randy Couture in a decisive 12-4 final. Throughout his collegiate career, Kerr was a three-time Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) champion and an All-American, demonstrating his dominance on the mat. His accolades included the prestigious Fletcher Award for scoring the most team points in 1991 and 1992.

Internationally, Kerr’s wrestling achievements were equally impressive. In 1992, he secured second place at the World Cup, finishing ahead of Kurt Angle. Kerr won the USA World Team Trials in 1993 and 1994, finishing 7th at the 1993 World Championships. He struck gold at the 1994 World Cup in Edmonton and claimed the USA Senior Freestyle Championship. Though he narrowly missed a medal at the World Championships, Kerr’s silver in freestyle at the 1995 Pan American Games underscored his skill and tenacity.

After narrowly missing out on the 1996 Olympics, Kerr transitioned to mixed martial arts, where he quickly made a name for himself. His MMA career was decorated with titles, including being a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and a World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner. Kerr also competed in PRIDE FC, one of the most prestigious MMA organizations of its time.

In submission wrestling, Kerr was a force to be reckoned with, securing four ADCC World Championships. He dominated his weight class twice, as well as winning the absolute division and the Superfight Championship. His feats in both freestyle and submission wrestling solidified his reputation as a versatile and formidable fighter.

Kerr’s life and career were immortalized in the 2002 HBO documentary “The Smashing Machine,” which offered an intimate look at his MMA journey, battles in the ring, and struggles with substance abuse. The documentary also highlighted his relationships with his then-girlfriend, training partners, and his close friendship with fellow fighter Mark Coleman.

An avid powerlifter, Kerr reportedly boasted impressive personal records, including a 425-pound bench press and a 550-pound squat. Despite his physical prowess, Kerr’s career and life were marked by challenges beyond the ring. By 2010, he considered himself “99.9 percent retired” and was pursuing a degree with aspirations in pharmaceutical sales.

Kerr’s resilience was further tested when he revealed in June 2019 that he had been battling peripheral neuropathy since 2016. Despite these challenges, Kerr’s legacy in both wrestling and MMA remains undiminished, a testament to his enduring spirit and remarkable athletic achievements.

In the storied history of Toledo’s high school basketball, few players have captivated fans and scouts alike quite like William Buford did during his illustrious career at Libbey High School. Hailing from the heart of Ohio, Buford emerged as a standout talent, drawing comparisons to the legendary Jim Jackson and earning the coveted title of “high school phenom.”

Early Days and Rise to Prominence

William Buford’s basketball journey began in Toledo, where he quickly made a name for himself on the courts of Libbey High School. Standing out with his impressive athleticism, scoring ability, and court awareness, Buford soon became a household name in Ohio’s basketball circles. His performances were nothing short of spectacular, leading to widespread recognition as one of the most dominant players in the state.

Dominance in the Toledo City League

Buford’s impact on the Toledo City League was profound. Drawing comparisons to Jim Jackson, a Toledo native and NBA star, Buford showcased a level of skill and finesse rarely seen in high school players. With his smooth shooting stroke, explosive drives, and defensive prowess, he consistently delivered standout performances that left opponents in awe and fans on their feet.

The Legacy of a Phenom

Throughout Buford’s high school career, the term “high school phenom” echoed through gyms and arenas across Ohio. His ability to take over games and lead Libbey High School to victory cemented his status as a generational talent. Buford’s achievements on the court garnered attention from top college programs, positioning him as a coveted recruit destined for greater success. During his junior season, Buford averaged 28 points and 12 rebounds per game, earning All-State honors. During his senior season, Buford averaged 23 points and 11 rebounds per game. Buford was also named Ohio Mr. Basketball. Buford also participated in the McDonald’s All-American Game and the Jordan Brand Classic.

National Recognition and Beyond

As Buford’s reputation grew, so did the anticipation surrounding his future. College recruiters from across the country vied for his commitment, recognizing his potential to impact the collegiate game. Ultimately, Buford’s journey continued beyond high school as he transitioned to The Ohio State University, where he further solidified his legacy as a standout player.

Reflecting on Greatness

Looking back, William Buford’s impact on Toledo’s basketball landscape remains significant. His tenure at Libbey High School stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of excellence in Ohio high school basketball. Buford’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of sports, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue greatness on and off the court.

In retrospect, William Buford’s legacy as Toledo’s high school phenom is etched in the annals of Ohio basketball history. His remarkable talent, dedication, and competitive spirit continue to resonate with basketball enthusiasts, preserving his place among the city’s basketball legends. As Toledo continues to produce exceptional talent, Buford’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes chasing their dreams.