Special Olympics Unified basketball tournaments bring together athletes with and without intellectual differences, forming teams that compete side by side while fostering inclusion and breaking down social barriers.

On Jan. 15 in Shakopee, the regional Unified basketball tournament was held, with teams competing for a chance to advance to the state level. Two Unified teams played with determination and heart throughout the regional playoffs, earning a spot in the championship game, which was later held at the Target Center in Minneapolis.

Seniors Addie Howe and Jillian Maddux serve as team managers and were instrumental in supporting the teams throughout the season. For Howe, the regional victory was unforgettable.

“I think the proudest moment was pulling off the win in the regional playoffs,” Howe said. “It was a super tight game.”

The teams played three games during the regional tournament, winning the first and third matchups. Each game was closely contested, showcasing the skill and teamwork of both sides.

Unified teams consist of near-equal numbers of athletes with intellectual differences and their Unified partners — typically developing students of similar age and ability levels. Watching these athletes compete brings smiles to every fan in the stands. Teammates patiently give one another the extra time needed to line up a shot, while constant encouragement fills the gym. The atmosphere is one of pure joy, where every athlete feels supported, valued and like an equal part of the team.

In the first matchup against Le Sueur-Henderson, the Ponies earned a hard-fought win in a close game. Senior Noah Kent and sophomore Jahari Thompson led the team in scoring but every player had an opportunity to take a shot and contribute to the victory. After dropping the second game the Ponies rallied in a decisive third match-up securing the win and earning their trip to the state tournament.

Senior Liam Chau has been part of the Unified basketball program for several years. He began as a player and has transitioned into a coaching role over the past couple of seasons, continuing to support and uplift his teammates both on and off the court.

“I like coaching so I can make the team better,” Chau said.

Winning a close game in the third round advanced the team to the state finals.

“We pulled off the win and everyone was just super excited and excited that we got to go to state,” Howe said.

The tournaments promote inclusion, skill development and equality, ensuring every participant has a meaningful role on the court. The teams success not only reflects their athletic ability, but also the values of inclusion, encouragement and unity that define our school community.

As the team took to the court at the Target Center on Feb. 10 for the first matchup against Watertown-Mayer, they played hard but suffered a tough loss, placing them in the third place bracket. Refusing to back down, the Ponies battled through a close and competitive game against  Bemidji, finishing the tournament with an impressive 37 to 23 victory to secure third place in the tournament.