What was it like competing on the court at the BMO Harris Bradley Center? Were you nervous?
It was crazy. It’s a truly unique experience being on the court and having all eyes on you. Standing in the tunnel of the Bradley Center seems a lot larger than sitting in a seat.
We had sweaty palms and knocking knees until we got started and then we calmed down. On the court, things go fast and there is no time to be nervous. Having the first 60-second round end in a tie and then watching our teammate make the winning shot in overtime at the buzzer was great – not many people get a buzzer beating winning shot!
What did your team do to prep for the big competition?
We practiced “palming the ball” in case we had the chance to get our picture taken! But in all seriousness, we prepared with 50-mile runs in the snow, morning swims across Lake Michigan (and back) and one-arm pushup competitions, hotdog eating contests, and Zumba classes.
As reigning champions, what would you say to other companies who are interested in maybe participating next year?
Do it! It’s such a fun experience that will stay with you. United Way puts on a premier event that any team would want to participate in.
Thank you to both teams for being such fantastic players and advocates of United Way. You are a true example of what it means to Live United.