Marking the end of a memorable inaugural season, the Berkley High School Unified Basketball team played an exhibition match against Hartland High School on March 17 at Little Caesars Arena. The Unified Basketball team has been wildly successful in their first year, with many members of the BHS community showing up to their games in massive groups to show their support. This was the case on March 17, with many BHS staff, students, and parents present at the game.
Prior to the game, there was a ceremony honoring the senior athletes on the team, with four seniors from Berkley being recognized. Moving towards the game, the first half was very close, with Berkley leading 31-28 at halftime thanks to three free throws in the first quarter from freshman Ian Croteau as well as two free throws from junior Robbie McDowell in the second. The Bears closed out the second quarter with a last-second buzzer-beater from freshman Aiden Parrinello, giving them the lead. Berkley’s offense was firing on all cylinders in the second half, with senior Jackson Smith almost landing a half-court shot before rebounding and being recovered by sophomore Tessa Moleski. Sophomore Grant Mortsfield scored the last point of the game, with Berkley losing to Hartland 48-52.
Even though the game ended in a loss, the Bears were optimistic about the opportunity they had to play on the same court as the professionals. Bears head coach Amy Sarris said, “It’s not about winning, it’s the fact we were able to give these students a chance to play in front of all their friends and family.” Senior Arianna Tovarez said, “I’m proud that we were able to have some fun and work together as a team.” Freshman Aiden Parrinello had a similar tone, saying he was “happy to be there and just enjoy the game with [his] friends.”
When asked about the decision to host Unified Basketball teams at LCA, the Pistons’ Organization stated, “We at the Detroit Pistons value inclusivity for all our fans, and we pride ourselves in partnering with KultureCity to provide a sensory-friendly experience at Little Caesars Arena for all our guests. Unified Night at LCA is yet another way our organization gives back to the community, as proceeds from ticket sales go back to the communities we invited to play. We couldn’t be prouder to give back to the Berkley High community.”
Looking toward next year, Pistons group sales executive Andy Myers says he intends to invite the Bears back for their next Unified Night next school year, as they were “great players with an even greater community.” For now, the Bears are filled with optimism knowing that their community came out in great numbers to support them.
