Young and old fans alike were able to meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at a recent Fan Appreciation Night on March 30.
GR Gold players wrapped up the 2023-2024 season with a game against Capital City Go-Go at the Van Andel Arena.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Fans received a free Gold pendant on a chain, presented by Founders Brewing Co. during their Gold Chain Giveaway.
After the game, Gold players lined up down the length of the court and signed autographs for fans.
Join the Gold excitement!
The Official NBA G League Affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, GR Gold provides ample opportunities for fans to enjoy the excitement of basketball. Fans can purchase tickets through a variety of options including season ticket memberships, 6-game plans, group packages and single-game tickets.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
GR Gold also hosts an annual summer camp, the Grand Rapids Gold Basketball Academy, for interested youth. Registration for the 2024 summer camp can be found here.
For more Grand Rapids Gold information and events, click here.
Grand Rapids Gold center Lacey James tells people he came out of the womb with a basketball.
While watching the 6-foot-9 Grand Rapids native warm up in preparation for a game, this reporter noticed James move with quiet intensity and focus. His love for the game is obvious in the attention he gave to each movement and handling of the ball.
In speaking with James after warming up, the 26-year-old told WKTV that he doesn’t remember a time when he didn’t love playing basketball.
“My first love was basketball,” James said.
Showing his love for the game at an early age. (Courtesy, Lacey James)
And no wonder — love of the sport was ingrained in his family. James’s mother and each of her siblings all received scholarships to play college basketball.
“I grew up surrounded by it all the time,” James said.
James was only seven years old when he began playing competitively with a travel basketball team.
James said the opportunity to travel to other states, play basketball and meet new people was exciting and fun.
“I saw more than the other kids because I traveled and played in arenas around the country,” James explained.
And he has never stopped playing.
A three-year starter for the Wayland Wildcats, where he averaged 20 points and 15 rebounds per game, James then signed with Rider University’s Broncs in New Jersey. After a year at RU, James transferred to Northern Illinois University where he played for the NIU Huskies until graduating in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in communications. During his final college season, he averaged nine points and 8 rebounds per game.
Lacey James (No. 4) in a game against the Windy City Bulls. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
James’s journey has led him to wearing No. 4 for the Grand Rapids Gold, a professional basketball team in the NBA G League affiliated with the Denver Nuggets.
He began the season on the Motor City Cruise roster, then came back to Grand Rapids and spent a few weeks practicing with the Grand Rapids Gold. They signed James to the team, and he made his debut as a Gold player in an away game against the Windy City Bulls.
The Grand Rapids Gold was founded in 2006 as the Anaheim Arsenal, relocating to Springfield, Massachusetts in 2009 as the Springfield Armor. In 2014, the league was renamed the Grand Rapids Drive, subsequently changing to Grand Rapids Gold in 2021.
The expansion team of the NBA Development League (NBA D-League) entered a multi-year partnership with Gatorade and was rebranded the NBA Gatorade League (NBA G League) prior to the 2017-18 season.
Not alone during the journey
But James freely admits that he didn’t get to where he is without the help of the people around him.
The only child of Karie James, Lacey said, “My mom and I are very close. She was there for me always, my number one fan.”
After signing with RU, Karie followed Lacey to New Jersey at his request.
“My mom did move out with me to New Jersey. It was cool, being all the way out on the east coast, to have somebody that close (to me) there. She sacrificed a lot for me.”
But James said he had a lot of people in his support system.
Grand Rapids Gold’s Lacey James dunking the ball. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
“I didn’t get here by myself. I had a lot of people that supported me and helped me out along the way.”
James said there were several players in the NBA as well as in his own neighborhood who inspired him, but that, “I never really had somebody that showed me the ropes, showed me what it would be like from elementary school, to middle school, to high school. I never had that.”
But that didn’t stop him.
“I kept trying to inspire and motivate myself every step of the way,” James said. “I just kept pushing myself along the path. I worked hard.”
Even the No. 4 on his jersey has special meaning to James.
“I wear that number because I play for four things,” James said. “God, family, an opportunity to change the world, and making a difference in the world with his platform are what motivates James every day.
James admitted that his favorite player growing up was Lebron James. Lebron’s presence on and off the court was only part of the Los Angeles Lakers player’s appeal. Having the same initials, both being only children, and both being 6-9 helped a young Lacey James relate to the basketball player in a unique way.
A voice in the world
“My goal is definitely to be on an NBA team and to have a long career and do something with my platform, inspire the world with my name, my voice and my resources.”
Lacey James, left, in a game vs. the Windy City Bulls. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
Having a chance to play professionally in his hometown during that journey means a lot to James.
“I grew up in Grand Rapids,” said James, “and we don’t have the NBA players like L.A. and New York … I would love to make it to those main teams and be that guy to come back and help those little kids and show them the ropes, show them the way to go.”
James credits God for his many accomplishments.
“God really blessed me … from my body, to my opportunities, to the doors he opened,” James said. “I credit God first because without him, none of this would be possible. I wouldn’t be in this position, I wouldn’t be who I am.”
When time allows, James makes it a point to work with kids on the side and has been to schools to speak with basketball teams and sometimes entire student bodies.
Kids that come to a GR Gold game often want to meet and talk to the players after the game. James tries to make sure he is available if kids are interested in meeting players.
“If they want to listen, or if they want to know something, I’ll do it for sure,” James said.
James, however, does not allow the focus to remain on his accomplishments for long.
“God put me in this position. He blessed me with this, and it’s just the beginning.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Spring Break doesn’t seem like it if you’re stuck in Grand Rapids.
If you’re like me, you’ll make the best of it, despite a few snowflakes.
In my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal, I include activities for kids, sports fans, craft beer aficionados and theater lovers. Who needs palm trees, the beach and fancy drinks by the pool?
Have a great weekend, friends.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season this weekend. (Supplied)
5. Grand Rapids Sports
The Grand Rapids Griffins and the Grand Rapids Gold both have home games this weekend. The hockey team has games Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at Van Andel Arena. Special activities include Jeff Hoggan jersey retirement, Margaritaville Night, and beach hat giveaway on Saturday. Also, the team has a home game on April 6. More info at vanandelarena.com. Also, pro basketball team the Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season withgames Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at the DetlaPlex Arena. On Friday, fans get $2 beer, $2 hot dogs and $5 Founders Solid Gold. And it’s Real Superheroes on Saturday. One lucky fan at the game will receive a limited edition superhero jersey and an official Wilson game ball. The Children’s Foundation also presents a post-game autograph session with coaches and team members. Team posters to the first 500 fans as well. Ticket info at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/
4. Grand Armory Tap Takeover at Horrocks
Whether it’s a tap takeover or not, it’s always fun to hang out at Horrocks Farm Market to do some shopping, as well as dine on soup, salad, pizza and other great food. In fact, it’s a great destination any day of the week. If you stop by Friday (April 1), craft beer fans can check out Grand Armory from 4-7 p.m. at Horrocks Market Tavern in Kentwood. Some of the beers on tap include Nerd (New England IPA), Lightly Dusted (Crop Duster Light), Blueberry Watermelon (Fruited Blonde), Grapefruit Grindage (Grapefruit IPA) and their famous Fluffer Nutter (Peanut Butter Marshmallow Stout). It’s super tasty and fun. Learn more on the Facebook Event Page.
3.Craig’s Cruisers Spring Break Wristbands
It’s back! The popular unlimited action at Craig’s Cruisers is from April 1-10 with morning (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) or afternoon (4-8 p.m.) sessions at Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center in Wyoming. The unlimited attractions include: Indoor & Outdoor Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Mini-Golf, Bumper Boats, Frog Hopper, Cruiser Coaster and Ninja Course. (Weather permitting on outdoor attractions.) Fans can also experience the Trampoline Park, as well as a pizza buffet. Tickets are $35 per person, plus tax. Waivers are also required. You can order tickets online as well as get more details craigscruisers.com/specials_promotions/spring-break-wristbands/.
“Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
2. Kids activities at museums and zoo
Several of our local cultural institutions offer great activities for families.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Spring Break Bonanza includesspecial performances and presentations, April 1-10. Details at www.grcm.org/events.
The Washed Ashore Exhibit opens April 1 at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids. The traveling exhibit features 16 large and colorful sculptures throughout the Zoo, all beautifully designed, giant sea life sculptures made entirely of marine debris collected from beaches. More details at jbzoo.org/washedashore.
Spring Break at the Public Museum, April 1-10; includes its newest exhibition, Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs. These are life-size models, casts of rare fossils while interactives bring these ancient animals to life. Also, relax and recline in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium with shows about the incredible forces of our universe. It’s fun for the whole family. Learn more at www.grpm.org, including how Kent County residents receive reduced admission, including free general admission for Kent County children 17 and under.
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Story of the Temptations” is at the DeVos Performance Hall. (Photo by Mike Murphy)
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations
I wasn’t too sure what to expect from the national Broadway tour of “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations,” which has performances through Sunday at DeVos Performance Hall. I knew the songs would be great – because who doesn’t love those classic songs like “My Girl,” “I Can’t Next to You,” “Just My Imagination” and “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone”? But the storyline has to pull it all together, and that’s exactly what it did. In fact, I wouldn’t mind seeing it again. Asked after the show for my review, I said “Ain’t Too Proud” is “a riveting and compelling behind the scenes story about one of music’s most successful acts, told through the classic songs we know and love. It’s a must-show that features stellar voices and those signature dance moves.” I think that says it all.
In my theater podcast “By All Means, Lead the Way,” I interviewed James T. Lane, who plays Paul Williams, one of the original members of the Temptations. The Philadelphia native tells his own story of how he fell in love with dance and the theater. And why he loves this show so much.
You will, too, he added.
“For 2 ½ hours you will be entertained by some of the most extraordinary artists I have ever had the pleasure to work with in all of my 20-plus years of experience,” Lane said in the interview.
“So come, be dazzled, be delighted; feel all of the emotions of the classic 5, and all of the Temptations. Come and see ‘Ain’t too Proud – Life of the Temptations.’ You will not want to miss this.”
If you want to hear the interview in its entirety, check out my podcast here:
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49281119
Presented by Broadway Grand Rapids, performances of “Ain’t Too Proud” continue through Sunday (April 3). Ticket information at broadwaygrandrapids.com.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe Spring Break.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
This is a perfect time to check out World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. Plenty of activities are planned today through March 6.
But, if you want to escape winter, and you’re more focused on summer, it’s also a good weekend to go downtown Grand Rapids for the annual camper and RV show. It’s only a few months away from warmer days.
I also talk a little about basketball and “Star Wars,” two of my favorite passions.
It’s all in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Have a great, safe weekend.
Here we go.
Gonzo’s Top 5
From a previous year’s City of Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance, which this year will be expanded to be an “all family” dance. (WKTV)
5. Daddy Daughter Dance
Pre-registration is sold out for this event as kids bring their dads, moms, grandparents or other relatives as their “date” to a Winter Wonderland theme on Saturday (Jan. 22) at Kentwood Library, 4950 Breton SE. Organizers are accepting names over the phone for the waiting list and will notify if there are cancellations. Call 616-656-5270 to be added to the waitlist. More info at https://www.kentwood.us/events_detail_T53_R52.php.
4. Grand Rapids Gold ‘Star Wars’ Night
If you’re a “Star Wars” fan looking for an excuse to see a Grand Rapids Gold basketball game, then head out to “Star Wars” Night on Saturday (Jan. 22) at the DeltaPlex Arena. “Help the Gold channel the force and take down the Fort Wayne Mad Ants,” says the team. The first 500 fans in the door will receive a free lightsaber. And anyone who wears a Star Wars costume or merch gets a free ticket to the game. Doors open at 6 p.m. The game tips off at 7 p.m. Also, the Saturday $44 Four-Pack special is available. Fans get four tickets, four hot dogs and four sodas for $44.. More details at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/star-wars-night/.
3. The Harlem Globetrotters
Speaking of basketball, one of my favorite memories as a dad and coach was taking my middle school basketball team to see the iconic Harlem Globetrotters in action. One year we even had a player come to practice to show off their skills. I promise you this is an experience the kids will never forget. The Globetrotters perform at 2 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 23) at Van Andel Arena. More information and ticket information at www.vanandelarena.com.
2. World of Winter Weekend
As part of the World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids, musical performances and other forms of entertainment will take place throughout downtown from 6-8 p.m. Friday (Jan. 21). You will find these performers throughout the neighborhoods, just in time to grab a drink or a bite at a restaurant or bar. Also this weekend, a pop-up circus performance, curated by GR Circus, takes place from 6-8 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 22) at Ah-Nab-Awen Park near the Gerald R. Ford Museum. You can enjoy live fire performers, hula hoopers, aerial acts, juggling, stilt walking, and more. On Sunday (Jan. 23) enjoy a walking art installation tour. More details on all events at https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.
Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show
When you factor in a dozen West Michigan RV dealers representing more than 100 RV lines combined with 200,000-plus square feet, you get one of the biggest RV Shows in the state. The Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show also features a great selection of RV accessories, as well as campground and travel destinations. The show is today-Sunday (Jan. 23) at DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-14. A Family Zone area for kids is available Saturday and Sunday. Join us Saturday morning at the show, from 9:30 – 11 a.m., for Also, a pancake breakfast to benefit the Cran-Hill Ranch Summer Camp Scholarship Fund is open from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday. Cost is $5 for adults or $3 for kids and includes all you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee and orange drink. For more details about the show go to https://showspan.com/GRV/.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
It’s been a great Christmas season in the Gonzalez house with our two grandbabies visiting from out of town. What a change to go from just the two of us to two more adults, two children under the age of 3 and a dog!
I think we’re going to usher in the New Year in a whole new way.
What about you?
We have some ideas of things to do this weekend in Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. The Grand Rapids Gold
The season is just getting started for GR’s newest professional franchise, The Grand Rapids Gold basketball team in the NBA G League. Several home games are on tap, including games Jan. 5, 7 and 8 at the DeltaPlex Arena. “Star Wars” Night is Jan. 22. The team is an affiliate of the Denver Nuggets. Ticket information, as well as roster details, at grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/. Let’s go see some basketball!
4. Grand Rapids Griffins
We always have our Griffins to usher in a new year. The popular New Year’s Eve game – complete with fireworks – returns on Dec. 31 at Van Andel Arena. Game time is 6 p.m. The team plays in the American Hockey League and is an affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. Check out the schedule and ticket information at griffinshockey.com/schedule.
Photo by Gavin Brown (from Facebook)
3. Normal Mode at The Listening Room
Ready for live music to make a big comeback in 2022? I know I am. Start the new year with Normal Mode, a Grand Rapids-based trio writing what it calls “lo-fi space travel music.” The group performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 1) at The Listening Room in Grand Rapids. The band’s press material says: “This group of young, but seasoned musicians offer up floating ethereal soundscapes on top of head bopping grooves; perfect for a relaxing exploration. Dutcher Snedeker (Piano/Keys), Ian Thompson (Upright/Electric Bass), and Nathan Coles (Drums), all have deep roots in the Michigan music scene. Their genre blending style echos hints of Jazz, rock, and funk, while leaving enough room for improvisation.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s fantastic! The show is free. But there are vaccination requirements. Listen to their music and learn more at listeningroomgr.com.
2. Billy Strings Live
Fans are excited for the return of bluegrass star Billy Strings, a local musician-turned Grammy award winner, who is scheduled to perform Dec. 30-Jan. 1 at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in downtown Grand Rapids. All shows are sold out. If you have tickets, you’re in for a memorable evening. If not, well, maybe next time. And if you’ve never heard of Billy Strings or you want to watch from home, this is a good opportunity to learn more about this emerging national talent who is originally from Ionia. Those who want to livestream the shows can get more details at nugs.net. Follow Billy Strings on YouTube at https://found.ee/StringsYT and on Spotify https://found.ee/BSpotify.
Oh, and if you’re downtown on Thursday (Dec. 30), a pre-show concert is planned with Desmond Jones, a five-piece American rock band from Grand Rapids, at 5 p.m. at The Listening Room. The show is free. Doors open at 4 p.m. The band is known for its “melodic guitar riffs, funky bass lines, groovy drumbeats, and smooth saxophone,” according to press materials. More info at listeningroomgr.com.
Note: Billy Strings postponed some shows in Nashville earlier this month because of a Covid positive test in his touring band. In a story on liveforlivemusic.com he said: “At this time we have every intention of performing our New Years Eve run in Grand Rapids and can’t wait to see you there. We love you and hope you all stay healthy and safe this holiday season.”
Scenes from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition and events. (Supplied/Dean VanDis)
1. Christmas in Grand Rapids
I’ve mentioned a couple local institutions several times over the last few weeks. Don’t forget:
The Christmas Lite Show at LMCU Ballpark remains open from 5:30-9 p.m. daily, and 5:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It runs through Jan. 1. Cost is $28 per car. More information at christmasliteshow.com.
The University of Michigan Health-West Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition at Meijer Gardens runs through Jan. 2. It is open daily, but closed on Jan. 1. More details at meijergardens.org.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the “Behind the Mitten” radio show, which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
