When it comes to a state basketball tournament, most people look to the court when thinking about big-time, memorable moments. But this year at the state ‘B’ tournament in Aberdeen, another historic moment occurred courtside at the media table.
Mitch Reed, the superintendent at Florence, was doing radio play-by-play for the Castlewood games on New Country KS93. His color commentator for Thursday and Saturday was Taven Sumner, a fourth grader from Florence. Not only is Taven (probably) the youngest broadcaster to ever call a state championship game, but he’s also blind.
“I’ve had a lot of opportunities to call a lot of state B basketball tournaments, as well as football games. A fourth-grade student (Taven) at Florence, the school I work at, always asks me about these games and when I’m going to be on,” explained Mitch. “About three weeks ago he had asked me in class if I was going to do the state tournament. I said “yeah, me and you. You’re doing it with me.” He kind of was like “what?” He got pretty excited about it and we just kept talking about it.”
What’s most impressive about Taven is he understands basketball just by listening to it, and at such a young age.
“Just from day one, talking through the game, he understands the game,” stated Mitch. “He’s had siblings play. I actually coached his sister (Mylee) this year in basketball.”
And what is it about basketball that Taven enjoys most?
“Everything is fun,” he said with a smile.
As for being the color commentator on the radio, he thought that was pretty cool too.
“It’s one of the funnest things I’ve ever done,” Taven exclaimed.”
“He’s breaking barriers. How much he understands the game by listening and soaking everything in, it’s unbelievable. I admire him for that, for sure,” Mitch told. “I think it’s important that if you set your mind to something, dream big and be able to do it. And he’s doing that. I hope he’s having fun. I bet I’m having more fun that he is. Being able to call it with a student, that’s a dream come true for me.”
Taven’s favorite concession stand food is “nachos.” His favorite subject in school is “math.” And prior to the state championship tip-off, he gave his prediction on the winner.
“I think Castlewood can pull it off,” he said gleaming.
Castlewood did indeed go on to win the state championship. A 52-31 win over Viborg-Hurley. The Warriors first state boys basketball title since 2001.
“His ability to [broadcast] and not see anything, he’s an inspiration to all,” said Mitch. “Nobody is telling him no, that’s the coolest thing about Taven.”
An inspiration for sure! At the end of the interview Mitch asked Taven “Am I better broadcaster or a better coach?”
Taven’s response, “Broadcaster, you’re a good coach too.”
The bond between Mitch and Taven is stronger than teacher and student, or broadcast partners. It’s about a kids dream and creating an opportunity to live that dream out.
Way to go, Taven! Keep on dreaming, bud!
