Novi Times

The Clarkston Unified Basketball team was recognized for their efforts and accomplishments at the March 13 meeting of the Clarkston Community School District board meeting.

The team, made up of athletes with special needs, finished their stellar season by playing against the Lakers of West Bloomfield at the home of the Detroit Pistons, Little Caesars Arena.

Coach Glenn Gualtieri called it a once in a lifetime experience and the best workday he has had in 30 years.

“So, not only do these players get a great experience, they also earn a varsity letter,” said Gualtieri.  “And those were distributed last week or last Saturday when we had an Oakland County Unified Jamboree, they call it, the tournament towards the end of the year.”

Two of the players addressed the board about the team’s season. Eric Jenson said that he really enjoyed playing on the team and shooting three pointers. He added that he will miss his teammates and playing for the team after he graduates this spring.

Brittany Bugari explained how being in the team for the past two years changed her life.

The squad competes with other unified teams in the area and is perceived as an extension of the Special Olympics.

Bugari added that she enjoyed watching her teammates play and succeed and would always cherish the special bond created between players and partners.

The team was established in 2020 and quickly garnered the backing of the local community. While the team hasn’t always won the most games, they ended this year’s season with two wins in the final tournament and have become a regular part of the district’s athletic events.