In Bend, Oregon, local shopping has grown into a resounding tradition of care, connection, and community pride. It’s how dollars stay in the neighborhood, how neighbors lift one another up, and how the spirit of Bend remains as bright and enduring as its high-desert sunsets. One place that reflects that hope is Local Acres Marketplace, a grocery store on Highway 97 that has become a steady, uplifting reminder of what’s possible when a community chooses to support its own.
“The holidays in Central Oregon are something incredibly special. You see people increase their giving of time, energy, and resources. It reminds us of the kind of community we live in. We’re proud to be a founding sponsor of Dry Canyon Arts Association in Redmond. We’re providing and installing flooring in their new community arts center. Their space opens December 5, and it’s amazing to see how it’s going to give local artists and families a place to connect through creativity.” – Katy Booher, Floor Coverings International
Rooted in Community
Formerly known as Food 4 Less, Local Acres rebranded in 2023, transforming from a warehouse-style grocery store into a community-centered market with character, intention, and a distinctly local heartbeat. Its shelves now highlight the “Local Zone” — a dedicated space for products grown, made, and crafted throughout Central Oregon. It’s a vibrant celebration of regional creativity and the people behind it.
But this evolution didn’t stop at redesigned aisles or new signage. As Store Manager Aaron Price explains, the store’s foundation is built on supporting Bend from the inside out. Every dollar spent at Local Acres stays in the community, circulating through local jobs and local families. With roughly 60 employees — all Central Oregon residents — the store is part of the daily rhythm that keeps the city grounded.
“Being locally owned is a huge source of pride for Local Acres Marketplace. We truly are 100% locally owned and operated. No corporate office in another town or state, no other stores to support, no chain or corporate feel. Just local people, living and working right alongside you, right here in Bend, Oregon,” Price says.
A Multiplier Effect
Supporting local businesses creates a powerful ripple effect — one that extends far beyond a single purchase. Independent shops hire locally, support regional suppliers, and invest in community programs. They help fund the very places and services that make Bend the kind of city people love to call home: its schools, parks, after-school programs, and neighborhood organizations.
At Local Acres, giving back isn’t just a seasonal effort — it’s woven into the store’s identity. Youth sports teams, school fundraisers, food banks, church groups, scout troops, and charitable events all benefit from the store’s long-standing commitment to generosity.
“Being locally owned and operated since 1985, we feel a responsibility to give back to our community,” Price explains. “We do so by supporting local schools, Little League, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, charity events, fundraisers, churches, food banks, and so much more. We are delighted to be able to give back and support those who have supported us over the years.” In a fast-growing city like Bend, these community touchpoints matter. Local hubs such as Local Acres create subtle but powerful moments of connection — a familiar greeting from a cashier, a shared recommendation from a fellow shopper, an unexpected conversation in the produce aisle. These interactions help Bend retain its small-town warmth, even as it grows.
The Bigger Picture
Choosing local — whether at a neighborhood grocery store or one of Bend’s many independent boutiques — is about investing in the community’s long-term health and identity. Local businesses energize commercial districts, reduce the need for long commutes, and help shape the unique character of Bend’s neighborhoods. They keep decision-making and economic momentum close to home.
A Heartfelt Return
Here in Bend, shopping locally means putting hope into action. It means choosing a future where community thrives, where neighbors feel connected, and where the city’s economic heartbeat remains rooted in local hands.
Local Acres Marketplace embodies that vision. By uplifting regional producers, employing local residents, and giving back generously, it stands as more than a grocery store. It is a gathering place, a supporter of dreams, and a testament to what a community can build when it invests in itself — one meaningful purchase at a time.
Related Articles
Why Shop Local in Central Oregon This Holiday Season
WOBURN – During their last meetings of 2025, both the City Council and School Committee observed moments of silence to reflect on the loss of beloved youth sports advocate, educator and family man Joseph Crowley, who served for nearly four decades on the city’s School Committee between 1970 and 2011.
Crowley, a lifelong city resident who ran a flourishing real-estate business until his retirement, passed away peacefully earlier this month at age 86. He leaves behind his wife, Audrey, his two daughters, and five grandchildren who his closest relatives say were showered with the family patriarch’s “unfettered adoration.”
In a particularly moving moment, current School Committee Chair Ellen Crowley, who has followed in her father’s footsteps to become a staunch advocate for the city’s children, led the brief remembrance for her dad at the outset of last week’s meeting in the Joyce Middle School.
“Joe was a teacher at the Kennedy Junior High in the 1960s and served on the Woburn School Committee for 38 years from 1970 to 2011. And through this experience, he became a backbone to the committee in this very room that we’re standing here now,” said the School Committee chair, whose voice crackled with sorrow after getting through all but the last sentence of her statement with a calm poise.
“Good job, Ellen,” School Committee veterans Michael Mulrenan and Patricia Chisholm – both of whom served with her father – would later say encouragingly.
A father-of-two who was married for 51-years to lifelong resident Audrey (Devlin) Crowley at the time of his passing, Crowley became active in youth sports in his 20s, when he coached local Little League and Pop Warner teams. The former middle school educator, who also taught in neighboring Winchester, is also the founder of the city’s flourishing Woburn Youth Hockey program.
Earlier this month, during the City Council’s most recent meeting in City Hall, Ward 7 Councilor Charles Viola noted that many local citizens can attest to the impacts the middle school math teacher had on their early lives while playing sports.
“Today, we pause to remember a community pillar and lifelong resident of Woburn, Joe Crowley,” said Viola. “People often say that Joe was a positive impact in their lives from playing sports for him. Joe was instrumental in organizing Woburn Youth Hockey when the hockey program was just getting started.”
“Joe went on to become an educator and finally ran for School Committee in 1969 and sat on the School Committee for 38 years. One could say that Joe was the backbone of the School Committee,” the West Side official added.
Notably, the veteran School Committee member before stepping down from the education board in 2011 was a major proponent of establishing “school parity” across the district by ensuring that all of the city’s children were learning in modern-day facilities and supported the first wave of school construction projects in the city that resulted in most elementary facilities and a new high school being built.
Named chairman of the local education board on 10 separate occasions during his tenure, the former Woburn Recreation Commission member always treated the business before the School Committee with the utmost seriousness. However, he was never beyond having a good laugh with colleagues.
In one such humorous exchange during his final official meeting on the School Committee back in December of 2011, his peers – known for ribbing the “elder” statesman about his age – carefully positioned a box of tissues in front of Crowley’s microphone in case he got too “choked up.”
“Looking back, it occurred to me that I may never have publicly thanked my family, especially my wife Audrey, for putting up with all the missed dinners and events, phone calls, late meetings, and interrupted vacations and for all the support and encouragement she and my daughters gave me over the years,” the Boston College alumnus would later say before that final meeting adjourned. “Of all the boards that I’ve served on, I consider this present group to be one of the best. We have our debates and different opinions, and sometimes even a snit or two, but we usually reach a consensus and come together as one voice to do what’s best for those 4,000-plus students who depend on us.”
Crowley’s funeral was held at St. Charles Church on Dec. 15 and he was later laid to rest at Woodbrook Cemetery. Those who wish to make a remembrance in his honor are asked to make donations to the Woburn Community Education Foundation or Woburn Historical Society.
In the latest edition of ‘P.I. Pulse’, Pro Insight’s Tyler Glazier highlights prospects who stood out at Sports Academy National Cup after spending the weekend at Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, CA for Session One of the annual event:
The fourth-annual Sports Academy National Cup tipped off this past weekend with Session One at Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, CA, showcasing top-tier youth talent across multiple divisions. The 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade competitions were split into ‘National’ and ‘Regional’ brackets, while the 5th-grade division crowned a single champion, setting the stage for intense, high-level matchups across the two-day format.
The 8th-grade National Bracket featured a rematch from the day before in The U 2030 facing Paul George Elite 8th Red, with The U defeating them for a second time with a final score of 81-64. In the 8th-grade Regional Bracket, Sports Academy Swish 14U defeated the Cali Hogs 14U Gold 68-57.
The 7th-grade National Bracket was dominated by Paul George Elite 7th Red, as they marched their way to a win over Paul George Elite 7th Blue with a 90-39 final score. Meanwhile, in the 7th-grade Regional Bracket, CBC 13U secured a 53-44 victory over Sports Academy Swish 13U.
The 6th-grade National Bracket was a showdown between Paul George Elite 6th SoCal Red vs AZ Unity SEB 2032 where Paul George Elite 6th SoCal Red was named the champion. In the Regional Bracket, HandleLife 2032 defeated Cali Hogs 12U Silver 67-44.
Below, we break down the players who stood out over the weekend and should remain on your radar ahead of Session Two.
8th Grade ‘National’ Bracket Champs: The U 2030
Event Standouts
Tristan Ariza | 2030 | Paul George Elite 8th Red (CA)
Tristan Ariza proved to be a tough cover, using his quick athleticism, tight handle, and shot-making ability to consistently pressure defenses. Coming from a highly athletic basketball family, he played with confidence and feel, generating paint touches and creating opportunities for others as an underrated playmaker. Ariza also competed on the defensive end, showing active hands and quick feet to bother opposing guards. With an impressive all-around perimeter skill set, he stood out as a well-rounded 2030 prospect.
Noah Austin | 2030 | The U 2030 (CA)
Noah Austin operated as the catalyst for The U, controlling tempo and directing traffic on the offensive end. He consistently ignited transition opportunities, delivered sharp reads as a playmaker, and put consistent pressure on the rim when attacking downhill. Defensively, Austin brought toughness at the point of attack, hounding ball handlers and setting the tone with his energy. His edge and competitive mindset were contagious, elevating the group’s collective IQ and presence as he impressed throughout Session One.
Bryce Bible | 2030 | The U 2030 (CA)
Bryce Bible picked up right where he left off at last season’s SANC, emerging as a major interior presence and helping power The U to the 8th grade National crown. Showing noticeable growth physically, he impacted the game on both ends with his fluid athleticism, coordination, and touch around the basket. Bible consistently finished plays inside while using his length and instincts to protect the paint defensively, giving The U a reliable anchor in the middle. Coming from an athletic background, his upside and improving positional tools were on full display as he played a key role in the title run throughout Session One.
Manny Contreras | 2030 | AZ Unity SEB 2030 (CA)
Manny Contreras stood out with smooth athleticism and natural scoring ability, impacting the game from multiple areas on the floor. Whether attacking off the bounce, spotting up, or finishing around the rim, he consistently finds ways to score. Contreras plays with pace, complements teammates effortlessly, and makes smart reads, reflecting his high basketball IQ. With his skill set and athleticism, Contreras has plenty of room for continued growth at the next level.
Damauri Cosby | 2031 | Paul George Elite 7th Red (CA)
Damauri Cosby was a standout guard for Paul George Elite, bringing energy and excitement to the backcourt. The 2031 prospect showcased a shifty, athletic style, keeping the ball on a string while attacking the rim with soft floaters and impressive footwork through traffic. Cosby also flashed live-dribble passing and natural feel as a creator, showing a polished offensive bag well beyond his age. His ability to score, create, and control the game made him one of the most dynamic guards on display in Thousand Oaks.
Jackson Elcott | 2030 | The U 2030 (CA)
Jackson Elcott stood out as one of the top performers at Session One, showcasing a noticeable physical transformation over the past year. With added size and strength to his frame, he impacted the game on both ends — consistently pressuring the ball defensively while taking on multiple roles offensively. Elcott thrived as a creator and slasher, finishing through contact and keeping the offense flowing as a reliable connector. His growing physical tools and well-rounded skill set point to significant upside, and he projects as a national name in the near future as part of a talented The U group.
Kaleb Jackson | 2030 | HandleLife 2030 (CA)
Kaleb Jackson emerged as an intriguing 2030 guard, showcasing a quick, shifty game that consistently put pressure on the defense. Comfortable playing on or off the ball, he created separation with a smooth stop-and-start ability and attacked downhill with purpose, while also flashing a reliable pull-up jumper to keep defenders honest. He played with good pace and applied steady pressure at the rim. On the defensive end, Jackson showed active hands and the ability to guard multiple positions at this level. Confident and poised in his approach, he carried himself well throughout and remains a prospect worth monitoring moving forward.
Dahntay Jones, Jr. | 2031 | Paul George Elite 7th Red (CA)
Dahntay Jones, Jr., son of former NBA player Dahntay Jones, made an immediate impression with his toughness and physical style of play. He consistently crashed the glass, competed hard on defense, and made smart reads as a key connector in the offense. Jones, Jr. finished through contact and used his strong frame to make an all-around impact. Paired with Damauri Cosby, he helped form a dynamic backcourt, and his effort and versatility (along with those NBA genes) make him a prospect to keep an eye on.
Jayden Jones | 2030 | Paul George Elite 8th Red (CA)
Jayden Jones was a problem for opposing defenses, playing a key role in leading Paul George Elite to a National bracket championship appearance during Session One. Always in attack mode, the 2030 guard showcased multi-level scoring ability, finishing through contact and knocking down pull-up jumpers with confidence. He also competed on the defensive end, using his twitchy athleticism to disrupt ball handlers and apply consistent pressure. With his aggressive mindset and two-way impact, Jones stood out as a high-level prospect.
Landon Jones | 2031 | CBC 13U (CA)
Landon Jones emerged as one of the more creative guards in attendance at the SANC, flashing advanced shot creation and polish for his age. The 2031 prospect consistently created space as both a scorer and finisher, showing confidence and craft with the ball in his hands. He played with a strong feel for the game, balancing assertiveness with an unselfish approach as a playmaker who set teammates up effectively. Carrying a true floor-general presence, Jones stood out as a guard to like long term.
Prince Outler | 2030 | The U 2030 (CA)
Prince Outler was a constant force for The U, bringing energy and athleticism that shifted momentum throughout Session One. The New York native and SANC vet dominated around the rim, finishing plays with authority, throwing down multiple emphatic dunks. Beyond his vertical pop, Outler flashed a more complete offensive game, creating space off the bounce and confidently knocking down jumpers. On defense, he routinely turned stops into scoring chances, jumping passing lanes, catching opponents off guard. His two-way impact made The U that much more dangerous as they established themselves during the event.
Dillon Rice | 2030 | AZ Unity SEB 2030 (CA)
Dillon Rice showcased a polished and versatile offensive skill set throughout the weekend. One of the more skilled prospects in attendance, the AZ Unity wing consistently knocked down shots, created space off the bounce, and made plays for others as a willing facilitator. He also converted some impressively tough finishes, showing touch and body control around the rim. Carrying himself with confidence, Rice impacted the game in multiple ways and emerged as an exciting prospect to track out of SoCal.
Justin Seals | 2030 | Cali Hogs 14U Gold (CA)
Justin Seals elevated the Cali Hogs with his physicality, versatility, and competitiveness. A true matchup problem, he bullied defenders inside, handled the ball comfortably on the perimeter, and created offense for both himself and others as a scorer and playmaker. Seals played with pace and force, attacking gaps, finishing through contact, impacting the game in a variety of ways. Athletic, tough, and impactful, he stood out as a true difference-maker at the 8th-grade level.
Spencer White | 2031 | Paul George Elite 7th Red (CA)
Spencer White picked up right where he left off at last spring’s Grand Finale, once again asserting himself as a dominant presence and leading Paul George Elite Red to a Session One 7th grade championship. He continued to control the paint on both ends, finishing efficiently around the rim while anchoring the interior as a reliable defender and rim protector. At the same time, White showed clear growth in his perimeter skill set, stretching the floor, grabbing and going in transition, and handling the ball in space. His ability to expand his offensive game while maintaining his impact as an interior defender was a key factor in his team’s title run.
Matt Barnes Defensive Spotlight
This award goes to the best defensive player in the session. The recipient must exhibit a high-level of defensive capability, affecting the game in multiple ways on the defensive end.
Zion Collins | 2030 | HandleLife 2030 (CA)
Zion Collins played a crucial role for HandleLife, standing out as a switchable and versatile defender who set the tone on that end of the floor. With long arms, quick feet, and a highly-competitive approach, he took on any matchup and made opponents work for every touch. Collins consistently got big in his stance, slid his feet well, and cut off driving lanes, using his length and anticipation to disrupt rhythm. He stayed locked in throughout possessions, applying constant ball pressure and providing strong team defense. Paired with his ability to space the floor, Collins brought a valuable 3-and-D presence that elevated HandleLife’s overall ceiling as a program.
Additional Event Standouts
💡➡️ Crafty finishing, shooting, floor general qualities, and clutch gene
💡➡️ Versatility, playmaking, finishing, and defensive activity
💡➡️ Versatility, shooting, slashing, and toughness
💡➡️ BBIQ, facilitating, finishing, and overall versatility
💡➡️ Knockdown shooting, slashing and creative finishing
💡➡️ Self-creation, crafty finishing and floor general qualities
💡➡️ Verstaility, self-creation, interior scoring, playmaking, and defense
SALINEVILLE – Southern Local Schools will soon implement a campaign in partnership with the Columbiana County Educational Service Center to inform students that “YOU Matter Here.”
District Federal Programs Coordinator Kristy Sampson said plans will begin in January to begin brainstorming strategies which stress students’ importance in both the school and the community. The project stems from a developmental asset survey from the Search Institute conducted by the Columbiana County ESC and involving junior high and high school students countywide who are between the ages of 12 to 18. The developmental assets are building blocks for healthy development to help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.
“Columbiana County ESC partners with the guidance counselors to conduct the asset survey every couple of years with students to determine which of the developmental assets the students have developed and which assets the students need support with. They are going to do a campaign kickoff this year entitled, ‘YOU Matter Here,’ to focus on the main asset categories or pillars identified as areas of need based on student responses, and they are encouraging school districts to review the data and find ways to implement the ‘YOU Matter Here’ concepts with their youth.”
Sampson added that the survey data indicated three main pillars, or categories, where students’ responses indicated a need for support: sense of belonging and self-identity; parental presence and power; and community involvement. The campaign aims to boost awareness and positivity, and she will coordinate a stakeholders’ meeting over the next month to begin planning for implementation at Southern Local.
“We’ll host a meeting with stakeholders to look at our county data and district specific data to move forward in supporting our students. We will work with Melissa Galbreath, the lead for the Columbiana County “YOU Matter Here” campaign to begin our process. This is the first time we’ve done this campaign,” she continued, saying one aspect may be to seek the development of a third space for kids to find enrichment and support. “Research shows that kids who have positive environments outside of home and school possess more of the positive developmental assets.”
But more discussion will be needed before efforts get underway.
“We can plan activities and supports to help our kids here at Southern Local realize they matter here in our buildings, they matter here in our classrooms, and they matter here in our extra-curricular activities as well as in the community,” Sampson said.
Any community member interested in becoming involved with the planning process may contact Sampson at the administrative office by calling 330-679-2343, Ext. 4203, or email kristy.sampson@slindians.org.
WELLSVILLE — The Buckeye Water District (BWD) Board of Trustees wrapped up the year with the adoption of multiple …
LIVERPOOL TOWNSHIP — Following the regular meeting of the Liverpool Township Board of Trustees on Tuesday, the …
FRI/12-26
Boardman
DARE Singles Group, Card Night at Perkins in Boardman, 5 p.m.; information at …
LISBON — Columbiana County Common Pleas Court Judge Megan Bickerton earlier this month issued her findings for …
BELOIT — The West Branch Board of Education said goodbye to three board members in its December meeting.
According to the latest information shared by Rodra via ESPN, there is a growing belief that Jacobo Ramon is destined to return to Real Madrid sooner rather than later.
The journalist mentions that the former youth team defender’s development in Italy has not gone unnoticed.
Advertisement
Currently plying his trade with Como, under Cesc Fabregas, Ramon has taken major steps forward this season, both in terms of responsibility and consistency.
In fact, he has grown into a genuine defensive leader despite being just 20 years old.
His composure, reading of the game, and ability to organise the back line have made him a key figure in Como’s defensive structure.
A smart buy-back option
It is said that Real Madird have been closely monitoring their young centre-backs, aware that defensive renewal is an issue that must be addressed carefully over the coming seasons.
While external signings often grab headlines, Madrid remain committed to developing solutions from within, and Ramon is now firmly part of that conversation.
Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Jacobo Ramon. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Advertisement
One of the key factors keeping Madrid relaxed is the contractual control they still hold.
The club included a buy-back option worth around €8 million, which can be activated next summer.
That clause gives Madrid a clear and affordable pathway to bring him back once they feel the timing is right.
Inside Valdebebas, there is a strong sense that this return is not a question of “if”, but “when”.
What makes Ramon’s case particularly compelling is how quickly he has adapted to senior football away from Spain.
Now, with defensive planning already underway, Ramon is increasingly seen as a natural solution, one who knows the club, understands its demands, and is proving himself step by step at the highest level.
Youth athletes looking to improve their technique, mechanics and confidence may find a new home with Pahrump Valley Junior Athletics.
Recently launched by local coach David Wilson, a lead instructor for the Pahrump Valley Junior Golf Association, Wilson’s vision is simple — build strong athletes. Build confident kids. Build a powerful future for Pahrump.
“Our mission is to develop well-rounded, disciplined, confident young athletes who are building the future of our community,” Wilson said. “We train them in a variety of areas, from speed, power, and agility to hand-eye coordination, endurance, and flexibility. The idea is to start younger so that kids have a strong foundation as they move into middle and high school athletics.”
The program comes as part of a broader effort to engage kids in sports early, addressing a common challenge many coaches have seen in Pahrump: students entering middle and high school sports with limited experience and preparation.
Aiming to serve kids in first through twelfth grade, Wilson draws on his years of coaching and playing experience.
From high school and college basketball to local youth programs, Wilson believes starting early is key.
In addition to group sessions, individual training will be available, with plans to work closely with local high school coaches to ensure that kids are prepared for the expectations of middle and high school athletics.
The program will begin this summer at the Pahrump Valley High School track and field, with sessions expected to run three to four times a week.
Fees are still being finalized, but organizers are committed to making the program affordable for all families, with memberships and discounts for multiple sessions.
Wilson’s inspiration comes from a lifelong love of sports and teaching.
Having played basketball at Bakersfield College, Crete Nebraska and coaching for three years at Pahrump Valley High School, Wilson understands the value of positive coaching and mentorship.
“I had coaches who were amazing teachers, and they shaped not just how I approached sports, but how I approached life,” Wilson said. “I want to bring that same experience to the kids here in Pahrump.”
With strong community support, Wilson is optimistic about the program’s impact.
“The community here is awesome — supportive, caring, and invested in their kids. We just want to give back and help kids grow, have fun, and succeed,” he said.
For parents and young athletes eager to get started, the program promises a mix of structured training, skill-building, and, most importantly, enjoyment of sports.
“By the end of the day, it’s about creating a culture where kids want to come, want to play and feel successful,” Wilson said.
To inquire about the program, contact David Wilson at pvjuniorathletics@gmail.com
Contact Jacob Powers at jpowers@pvtimes.com. Follow @jaypowers__ on X.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) -We just heard from Sundance Wicks on Tuesday night about how much he enjoyed bringing his Wyoming Cowboys back to South Dakota to take on the Jackrabbits at the Sanford Pentagon.
Every player and coach I’ve talked to since it was built has raved about the venue.
Our Sam Tastad put together some the reactions we’ve captured after the 100th Division One Basketball game was played on the Heritage Court at one of the coolest courts in the country.
<“I thought it was an unbelievable atmosphere. As good as in college basketball. No one tell me that’s a neutral site game,” said Oklahoma men’s basketball coach Porter Moser.
“It was absolutely unbelievable. I was talking to a Pentagon representative and he said that’s the best environment he’s heard in 100 games that have been here,” said Nebraska men’s basketball player Pryce Sandfort.
“It’s a milestone I wouldn’t of thought we would reach,” said Sanford Sports Vice President of Operations Jesse Smith. “After amount of effort it took to get game one and these Division I games off the ground, I never could have imagined we would be looking at hosting our 100th game.”
“They make you feel super welcome. They treat women’s basketball like its a sport. They put on a show and make us feel great about being here,” said South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley.
“To hear people say it is mandatory for people to play a game in the Sanford Pentagon is music to our ears,” said Sanford Sports President of Operations Steve Young.
“It was a home court and please can I take the fans. I think what the Pentagon folks is great. I would love to thank them as well,” said Iowa women’s basketball coach Jan Jensen.
“It felt like a home game with amount of fans there starting chants. You could definitely feel energy there,” said former Iowa Hawkeyes player Lucy Olsen.
“Every game is going to be by recently bias. But it was absolute electric in here. But I would put our experience in our arena with big time major fan support and community support. Major production,” said Young.
“Most memorable game was the Iowa and Gonzaga game that happened during COVID. We got the biggest game. We had Number one in country against the Number three team in the country and no one could come in and watch game. We felt like we were watching a secret scrimmage up until this Saturday with the Huskers was the Northern State national championship game against Ferris State. It ended on a last second shot and this play was loud and so much fun,” said Smith. “100 games means we have put ourselves on map as best in nation for college basketball. That was one of things our leadership had set out to do when we built this facility. We want to be a place for basketball, whether that’s youth basketball, AAU basketball, collegiate and professional. Now we can sit here and say we have checked those boxes. We have met all those goals and we want to keep going. Let’s keep going and do another 100.”
Copyright 2025 Dakota News Now. All rights reserved.