District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Union boys basketball is entering a new era, and the tone was set long before the first ball even touched the court. Inside the gym, there’s a different buzz this year: more intensity, more communication, more belief. That shift starts with first-year head coach Theron Brown, whose presence and philosophy have already reshaped the program’s identity.

Brown’s expectations are ambitious but grounded in growth. “Of course we want to win games, but marginal improvement each game is a big thing for the first year of me being here,” he said. Competing in the always-tough OK Gold, he believes the Redhawks are capable of making real noise. A top-three finish in the conference, he added, “would be a big win.”

Culture First, Wins Follow

From day one, Brown has focused on establishing a positive, player-centered culture. “My priority is making sure everything is done in a positive manner on and off the court,” he said. For many players, the gym is a safe space, and Brown embraces the responsibility that comes with that. “Being that light, refreshing person, I’m the leader they need to see each day.”

Though the season is just beginning, Brown plans to strengthen team chemistry through intentional bonding opportunities: bowling, paintball, team dinners, and time spent together away from the court. The goal is to build a unit, not just a roster, and he believes those shared experiences will bring the group even closer as the year unfolds.

Brown’s vision reaches beyond the varsity level, too. The entire program practices at the same time, giving him the chance to oversee every level and ensure continuity in fundamentals, terminology, and expectations. “We’re laying the foundation,” he said. “It’s a process, and it might look rough at times, but we’re going to get you there.” With daily communication between the high school coaches and regular touchpoints with middle school staff, Union is building a system designed for long-term stability and success.

Veterans Leading the Charge

On the floor, the leadership core of seniors Nate Mayfield and Kyrell Craig, along with junior Parker Bitson, is steering the team’s growth.

Mayfield sees clear improvement from last season: “One thing we’ve gotten better at is talking to each other as a team, and we’ve gotten better in terms of effort.” For Mayfield, his leadership comes from his ability to communicate with purpose. “I know how to talk to my teammates, not just being the rah-rah guy but someone who supports them.”

Bitson echoed the strides being made, especially on the defensive end. “We’re more intense and more locked in. Our defense has gotten a lot better, and we have a better connection than I’ve seen in the last few years,” he shared. Bitson’s leadership is rooted in consistency and example. “I use my voice, but I think my work ethic stands out. People follow what I do.”

Craig, a dynamic senior guard, has sharpened both his scoring ability and his playmaking, focusing on improving his shot and creating opportunities for his teammates to succeed. “As long as my team is eating and everyone is successful, that’s all that matters,” he said. When the pressure rises, Craig stays composed by slowing the game down and controlling the tempo.

Together, this core group of leaders is setting the tone for a season defined by their relentless pursuit of improvement, ensuring every player knows their role and fully buys into the system.

One Hundred Percent Buy-In

While some teams hang their identity on a single strength, Union sees itself as multi-dimensional. “I think we can do everything,” Craig said. “Whatever we want to do, I think we can do that.”

Craig also noted the elevated expectations and professionalism in the gym: “Everyone’s buying in. We have a new coaching staff, and we’re here every day putting the work in. It’s like a college practice when we practice.”

Brown shares that approach. Practices are detailed and situational, designed to prepare players for real-game moments. He emphasizes clear terminology—back screens, flares, ball-screen actions—so athletes can adjust confidently on the court. That consistency extends to lower levels, ensuring the entire program speaks the same basketball language and trains with the same intensity. Players focus on mastering the basics before applying them in controlled scrimmages, and every drill is purposeful, contributing to the larger vision Brown is building for the program.

A key part of that vision is junior Isaiah Jones, a highly skilled talent whose versatility and basketball IQ make him a natural fit for the structured system. Brown believes that Jones, along with the other veteran leaders, can make a major impact as the season progresses—especially when fully embracing the team’s approach.

Strength training and nutrition have also become priorities, with the entire team dedicating extra time in the weight room and focusing on proper fueling to support the development and competitiveness Brown is cultivating throughout the program.

A Program Recharged

If you ask the players why fans should show up this winter, the answer is immediate and convincing. “People should watch because it’s going to be a great year,” Craig said. “We have a great new coach, and we’re all dialed in. This year we’re going to put our mark on the city.”

The players’ connection with Brown has only fueled that momentum. “Coach Brown has been great. He really knows the game. He gives us real life talks and really helps us out,” Mayfield said.

Bitson added, “I feel like he is very involved and shows us that he is dedicated. As coach says, he’s going to give us the blueprint, and we’ve just gotta make the building out of it.”

As the season tips off, the Union boys basketball players aren’t just looking to win; they’re looking to redefine who they are. Expect the OK Gold to take notice as the Redhawks rise to that challenge.

Important Season Dates:

• First Game: December 5
• Game at Van Andel Arena v. Ottawa Hills: December 23
• Youth Night: January 23
• MHSAA Districts: February 23-27