Beyond the whistle

Pressure from parents can help, hurt student-athletes

When the Los Angeles Lakers drafted Lonzo Ball in 2017, they also got Ball’s father

LaVar Ball has made headlines with a variety of controversial statements promoting the basketball talents of his three sons — Lonzo, LiAngelo and LaMelo — and their Big Baller Brand apparel company. To some, LaVar Ball’s actions represent an example of what parents shouldn’t do. But for others, his passion is an example of how parents can be a driving force for the success of their children. It’s unfortunately too common to encounter parents like Ball, said former East Lansing High School boys basketball head coach Steve Finamore. He.

Beyond the whistle
A Spartan flags hangs inside inside the MSU Swimming and Diving facility in IM West on April 4.

MSU’s Israeli swimming duo adjust to American life

Tal Hanini knew he was in for a big change the second he stepped outside and saw his first Michigan snowfall. He quickly went back inside and grabbed a couple more layers before braving the elements. Hanini attempted to walk to his class, but got lost — a common occurrence during his freshman year. Asking for directions? Not as easy as it might seem with broken English, not knowing anybody in a sea of nearly 50,000 students.

Beyond the whistle
East Lansing senior Brandon Johns prepares for a recent basketball game. Johns plans to attend the University of Michigan.

East Lansing basketball standout Brandon Johns heads to Ann Arbor

Most people who closely follow college basketball recruiting might have thought a top basketball prospect born and raised in Lansing  would choose to stay home and play under Tom Izzo at Michigan State University. But Brandon Johns, a 6-foot-8 small forward at East Lansing High School, had other plans. Johns loves his hometown, but he decided to commit to the University of Michigan. It was the path he wanted to take. “A lot of people were happy,” Johns said, “especially the people that really cared about me because they knew it was my decision and my future.

Beyond the whistle
The Harding sisters, from left to right, Priscilla, Elizabeth and Caroline, all play golf. Priscilla and Caroline are members of the Michigan State women’s golf team. Elizabeth is expected to join them next year.

Harding sisters bring sibling bond to MSU golf team

Teammates aren’t always just teammates. Sometimes they’re family. What do the Harding sisters really think about each other and golfing at MSU?Spartan Newsroom sat down with Caroline and Priscilla for extended interviews. 

The Harding sisters’ blood runs deep in the game of golf. Their father and mother were collegiate golfers — Tom played at Michigan State, while mother Joal played at Auburn. The Hardings come from South Lyon and have always been around the sport.

Beyond the whistle

Q&A: Golfer Priscilla Harding talks about playing at the college level with her sisters

Priscilla Harding is the second of what soon will be three sisters playing on the Michigan State women’s golf team. Older sister Caroline is a redshirt sophomore and younger sister Elizabeth is expected to join the team next season. Spartan Newsroom sat down with Caroline to talk about what it’s like to play with her family’s legacy. Spartan Newsroom: What does it mean to you to play at the same school as your dad? Priscilla Harding: Once I decided to pursue golf, my No. 1 goal was to play at Michigan State.