Season Review: Big Reds Charged to 2nd Place

A young Milan Big Reds boys’ basketball team pulled off a good season, going 16-7 overall and taking second place in the Huron League, their highest finish since 2000-2001.  Their 16 wins were the third most since the 1980–1981 season. Of their seven losses, five were by 10 or less.

“It was a great year, and it could have been even better. The fact that we return eleven of twelve guys is pretty exciting as well. Our signature win was the home game against Riverview to open the league season. At the time, they were the favorites and it sent a message early that we’re here and the real deal,” said head coach Josh Tropea.

The whole team was saddened by the loss of Eric Harrison, one of two seniors on the team, who died tragically in January.

“I think we all got each other through it. I think (the players) did as much, if not more, for me than I did for them. Just being together and being on the court and continuing to stick to our routines helped us get through it,” said Tropea, who also teaches at Milan.

Spencer Dennison, senior and captain of the Big Reds, played strong coming off the bench for Milan. He gave the team quality minutes and allowed starters to get a rest without sacrificing ability or scheme on the court.

“Spencer is the consummate teammate, the captain who cares more about Milan than himself, more about the basketball program than himself. That is unbelievable for a kid to do at that age,” said Tropea.

Milan’s 11-3 record in the Huron League was good for second. They dropped a road game at St. Mary Catholic Central in double overtime by one point to seal their second place finish.

In the district tournament, Milan ousted Onsted in the opening round 51-50 on a late CJ Turnage layup after blowing an 18-point lead. After beating Tecumseh by thirteen in the semi-finals, the Big Reds lost to Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard in the finals, 56-36.