UM-Flint, Explore Flint & Genesee and city of Flint celebrate Wolverines' McKenney

University of Michigan shooting guard and Flint native Trey McKenney made great strides in his first year on the university's men's basketball team, helping the Wolverines win the 2026 NCAA National Championship while also earning Big Ten All-Freshman honors for his on-court skills. And like many other famous basketball players, including Glenn Rice, Morris Peterson, JaVale McGee, and Kyle Kuzma, McKenney got his start in Flint.

To honor McKenney's connection to the area, the University of Michigan-Flint, the Flint & Genesee Group and the city of Flint will co-host a May 14 event, "Trey Day," to recognize the significance of his contributions to sports in our community. 

The celebration will occur from 4-6 p.m. at the university's Riverfront Conference Center. Doors will open at 3 p.m. for the free and open-to-the-public event.

"Trey McKenney's rise to a national champion is a source of real pride for Flint and a powerful reminder of what this community produces," said UM-Flint Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander. "Flint has always been defined by resilience, determination, and heart, and Trey carried those qualities with him throughout the season and onto the national stage. We're honored to join our partners in celebrating his success and what it represents for this city."

"Trey McKenney is Flint Strong," said Mayor Sheldon A. Neeley. "His journey from our city to a national championship stage is proof that greatness lives here. We are proud to celebrate him as both a champion and a role model for our youth."

The national title win, a 69-63 win over the University of Connecticut, followed other accolades throughout McKenny's career, including representing the United States National Team and winning a gold medal at the 2024 FIBA Under-18 AmeriCup, being named the state of Michigan's "Mr. Basketball," as well as a McDonald's All-American in 2025.

"We are always proud to see amazing talent come out of Flint & Genesee," said Amari Steward, executive director of Explore Flint & Genesee. "Trey McKenney is a star in his own right, but is also proving what we've always known — Flint is a sports town!"

For further information regarding the event, contact Phillip Thompson, UM-Flint community relations manager, at 810-424-5489 or Steward at 810-600-1405.