Ever have one of those moments where you realize you completely forgot something awesome? Well, that's where I found myself last week when pondering my footwear choices. I'm often in and around hockey rinks, so boots are my go-to. But for basketball games? Not so much. That's when I realized I already had the perfect traveling sneakers... and I'd totally forgotten about them!
These forgotten treasures? Nike Grateful Dead-themed Dunks.
Now, if you know me, you know I'm a huge Grateful Dead fan. Back in 2023, my wife and I embarked on an epic 5,000-mile road trip to catch five Dead & Co. shows. It was an unforgettable experience, but my love for the band goes way back.
I remember seeing the ad for those vibrant sneakers on social media a few years ago. I showed them to my wife, and asked if I could buy them. Her response? A casual, "Go for it." A few weeks later, the fuzzy yellow shoes arrived, and her look said it all. I, of course, had already hit 'purchase' as soon as I got the green light.
So, writing about my shoe dilemma last week, I somehow completely spaced on my Grateful Dead Dunks. Maybe it's not that surprising; I also tend to forget about Hibbing from time to time (sorry, Hibbing!).
Over the weekend, the music world lost Bobby Weir, leaving only one original member of the band alive. It was a bit of a somber moment, and it made me reflect on all the amazing memories I've made over the years, from that incredible road trip to seeing Bob Weir and RatDog in concert. I even remembered the Grateful Dead-inspired basketball jerseys Lithuania wore at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992!
So, when I covered the Duluth Denfeld vs. Duluth East game, I donned my favorite tie-dyed hoodie and, of course, my Grateful Dead Dunks. It was my little tribute to Bobby and the legacy of the Dead.
Now, let's dive into the Twin Ports Power 5 rankings. These rankings are based on games prep sports reporters Jamey Malcomb, Jake Pryztarski, and Reagan Hoverman have watched and stats submitted to the Duluth News Tribune. It's a snapshot of the top five boys' and girls' basketball teams in the Northland, regardless of class size. Remember, these are based on the current moment, so a team's position can fluctuate week to week. This week, we'll focus on all five boys' teams and two girls' teams.
Here are the rankings:
Boys' Rankings:
Hibbing (10-3): The Bluejackets appear poised for another Section 7AAA championship run. Junior Ray Brau is a force, averaging over 26 points per game and shooting nearly 64% from the field. Efficiency is key! While it's tough to say if they're better than a healthy Superior team, Hibbing is definitely a top contender right now. Their upcoming games against Grand Rapids and Duluth Denfeld will be a true test.
Superior (9-3): The Spartans have hit a rough patch, losing three straight after a strong start. Senior Calvin Anderson's knee injury has significantly impacted the team, as he and fellow senior Drew Eisel account for roughly 60% of Superior's offensive output. It's a tough break, and injuries are definitely impacting the team's performance.
Cherry (11-2): After a surprising loss to Esko, Cherry has bounced back, winning games and showing they're still a contender.
Grand Rapids (9-3): They're on a roll, with seven consecutive wins and outscoring opponents by over 22 points a game in that span. Their fast-paced, physical style is fueled by dominant athletes like Logan McNear and Joey Sutherland. Their upcoming game against Hibbing could be a game-changer.
Northwestern (6-3): Kamden Kroll is a standout player for Northwestern. The junior guard is a lethal shooter and can also drive to the basket, finishing while setting up teammates for success with his playmaking ability. Kroll recently scored a school-record 45 points, including nine 3-pointers.
Girls' Rankings:
Duluth Marshall (8-4): The Hilltoppers move up due to Proctor's losses. Chloe Johnson is possibly the best overall player in the area.
Proctor (12-4):
Rock Ridge (10-4): They appear to be the team to beat in Section 7AAA.
Mountain Iron-Buhl (13-0):
Northwestern (7-3):
So, what do you think? Are you surprised by any of these rankings? Do you agree with the assessment of the top teams? Let me know in the comments – I'm always up for a good discussion!
