The Michigan Community College Athletic Association has made its post-season awards for men’s basketball, and Bay College is pleased to announce that six of its players have been honoured for their outstanding performance. Additionally, for the second year in a row, Head Coach Matt Johnson has been awarded the prestigious title of Northern Conference Coach of the Year.
One of the outstanding players on the Norse team is Genesis Kemp from Grand Rapids, MI, who has been recognised with a spot on the All-MCCAA Team and the First Team All-Northern Conference. Kemp’s impressive statistics speak for themselves, with an average of 12.8 points per game, a shooting percentage of 49.6%, and 5.8 rebounds per game.
Another rising star on the team, Kairee Gadsen from Rochester, MN, has received First Team All-Conference recognition, as well as accolades for All-Freshmen and All-Defensive Teams. Gadsen’s contributions to the team were distinguished by his 12.3 points per game, 61 assists, 20 steals, and a 48.4% shooting rate.
The list of honourees continues as three more Norse players have made it to the Second Team All-Conference. Baril Mawo, from Manchester, NH, showcased his skills by also earning a spot on the All-Defensive Team. Mawo made a significant impact this season, starting in 30 games and averaging 11.7 points per game, 6.9 rebounds per game, and leading the team with 49 steals and 11 blocks.
Meanwhile, Ryan Sweeney from Green Bay, WI, has proven himself as an essential element of the Norse team by securing a place on the Second Team All-Conference, as well as being named to the All-Freshmen Team. With an impressive average of 13.6 points per game, a 52.2% shooting rate, 108 assists, and 46 steals, Sweeney’s versatile skills were pivotal to the team’s success.
Joining the ranks of his accomplished teammates, Joshua Ofori from Shakopee, MN, has made a mark by earning a place on the All-Conference Second Team and All-Freshmen lists. Ofori’s shooting accuracy at 53.7% led to an average of 12.7 points per game, along with 5.2 rebounds per game and a tie for the team lead with 20 blocks.
Despite an injury-shortened season, Nic Williams from La Crosse, WI, has earned recognition and has been placed on the All-Conference Honorable Mention Team. Even in his limited games, Williams showcased his talents with an average of 13.4 points per game, an impressive shooting percentage of 54.8%, and notable contributions in assists and steals.
Furthermore, the leadership and guidance of Head Coach Matt Johnson have been acknowledged with the prestigious title of MCCAA Northern Conference Coach of the Year for the second time. Under his direction, Bay College achieved a commendable 27-5 overall record and a remarkable 13-1 record in the conference. The Norse also claimed the title of Northern Conference Champions, marking another triumphant season under Coach Johnson’s mentorship.
While the Norse may have faced a setback in the Region Championship game, falling to Hocking College for the second consecutive season, the recognition and accolades earned by the players and coach serve as a testament to their exceptional talent, dedication, and teamwork throughout the season. As the Norse men’s basketball team basks in the glory of their achievements, they continue to inspire and elevate the standards of collegiate athletics.