East Lansing High School’s guard KJ Torbert has made history by being named Michigan’s Mr. Basketball on March 11, 2024. This accolade marks him as the first son of a former winner to receive this prestigious award in its 46-year history. His father, Kelvin Torbert, won the same honor in 2001 while attending Flint Northwestern and went on to have a successful college career at Michigan State before playing professionally overseas.
The significance of this achievement resonates deeply with both father and son. Kelvin expressed his pride, stating, “It means a lot to me, just the magnitude of the award. I think I am more happy for him than I was for myself.” He recalled a piece of advice he often shared with KJ: “There’s only one man that wants to see you do better than them, and that’s your dad.” This sentiment underscores the bond between them as they celebrate KJ’s individual accomplishments.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and averaging over 25 points and 6 rebounds per game, KJ has proven himself a formidable player on the court. His impressive skills have earned him a commitment to play at Bowling Green next season, indicating a promising future ahead.
As the defending-champion Trojans prepare to face Ann Arbor Pioneer in the state quarterfinals, KJ’s historic win adds an exciting layer to the matchup. The game is scheduled for Tuesday night, making it a pivotal moment for both the team and the young athlete.
This milestone represents not only personal achievement but also a legacy within Michigan high school basketball, highlighting the Torbert family’s impact on the sport.
