Ever found yourself in a footwear dilemma, juggling between boots and sneakers? It’s a struggle many of us face, especially when our activities span from hockey rinks to basketball courts. But here’s where it gets personal—last week, I realized I’d completely forgotten about a pair of sneakers that could’ve solved my problem. And this is the part most people miss: these weren’t just any sneakers; they were my cherished Grateful Dead-themed Nike Dunks. Let me take you on a journey through my shoe saga, my love for the Grateful Dead, and how these sneakers became a tribute to a legend.
A few years back, Nike dropped a limited edition of Grateful Dead-inspired Dunks in three vibrant colors. As a die-hard Deadhead, I couldn’t resist. My wife and I had even embarked on a 5,000-mile road trip in 2023 to catch five Dead & Co. shows across Colorado and eastern Washington—one of the most memorable trips of our lives. So, when I saw the ad for these sneakers on social media in 2020 or 2021, I knew I had to have them. I asked my wife, ‘Do you mind if I buy these?’ Her response? A simple ‘Go for it.’ Little did she know, I’d already clicked ‘purchase’ by the time she finished her sentence. When the fuzzy yellow shoes arrived, her look said it all: ‘You didn’t actually buy those, right?’ But I stood my ground, proudly declaring, ‘Darling, I hit ‘purchase’ the moment you said ‘go for it.’
Fast forward to last week, as I was writing about my footwear struggles, I somehow forgot about these very sneakers. Maybe it’s not surprising—I’ve been known to forget things, like, say, Hibbing (apologies, Hibbing!). But what brought them back to mind was the recent passing of Bobby Weir, leaving just one original member of the Grateful Dead alive. It hit me hard, not just because of the loss, but because it reminded me of all the incredible memories tied to the Dead, from that Charlotte show with Bob Weir and Rat Dog to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, where Lithuania’s basketball team sported Grateful Dead-inspired jerseys.
So, when I covered the Duluth Denfeld vs. Duluth East game on Thursday, I decided to pay my respects. I broke out my favorite tie-dyed hoodie and my Grateful Dead Dunks—a small but heartfelt tribute to Bobby and the Dead.
Now, let’s shift gears to the Twin Ports Power 5 rankings, where the basketball scene is heating up. But here’s where it gets controversial: are these rankings truly reflective of the best teams right now, or are we letting momentary wins cloud our judgment? Let’s dive in.
Boys’ Rankings:
Hibbing (10-3): The Bluejackets are on a roll, thanks to junior Ray Brau’s jaw-dropping 26+ points per game and 64% field goal percentage. But is this team truly better than Superior? That’s a debate for another day. Upcoming games against Grand Rapids and Duluth Denfeld will be the real test.
Superior (9-3): The Spartans’ recent losses coincide with key injuries to Calvin Anderson and Drew Eisel, who together account for 60% of their offense. It’s heartbreaking to see such talent sidelined. Are injuries robbing us of seeing Superior at their best? You tell me.
Cherry (11-2): Their recent loss to Esko was shocking, but Cherry has bounced back with wins over Littlefork-Big Falls and Sacred Heart. Are they still contenders for the section title? Only time will tell.
Grand Rapids (9-3): With seven straight wins, the Thunderhawks are on fire. Their fast, physical style of play, led by scorers like Logan McNear and Joey Sutherland, makes them a force to be reckoned with. Can they secure their first state tournament berth since 2017?
Northwestern (6-3): Kamden Kroll is a game-changer. His school-record 45 points and nine 3-pointers against Spooner prove he’s a force to be reckoned with. But can Northwestern make a deep run this season?
Girls’ Rankings:
Duluth Marshall (8-4): The Hilltoppers’ rise is due to Proctor’s recent losses, but their matchup on Tuesday could shake things up. Can Chloe Johnson carry the team with key players sidelined?
Proctor (12-4)
Rock Ridge (10-4): After dominating Hermantown, Rock Ridge looks unstoppable in Section 7AAA. But can anyone challenge them?
Mountain Iron-Buhl (13-0)
Northwestern (7-3)
Here’s the burning question: Are these rankings fair, or are we letting temporary setbacks overshadow true potential? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
