Flint native Trey McKenney will be honored during Trey Day on May 14
The City of Flint, Explore Flint & Genesee, and the University of Michigan-Flint, celebrate local sports star alongside his family
Flint, Mich., April 29, 2026) — University of Michigan shooting guard Trey McKenney has made great strides in his first year on the school’s basketball team, helping the Wolverines win the 2026 NCAA National Championship. He also earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors for his skills on the court. And like many famous basketball players, including Glenn Rice, Morris Peterson, JaVale McGee, and Kyle Kuzma, McKenney got his start in Flint, Michigan.
To honor McKenney’s connection to the area, local partners have collaborated on an event to recognize the significance of this contribution to sports in our community. On May 14, 2026, Trey Day will provide an opportunity to cheer on the local sports star and share in the celebration of the recent victory.
“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 University of Michigan-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.”
From 4 to 6 p.m. at Riverfront Conference Center, University of Michigan-Flint staff will convene with City of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neely, along with representatives from Explore Flint & Genesee and McKenney and his family, for an event honoring McKenney by local dignitaries. The event is open to the public. Doors open at 3 p.m., and attendees will receive a free, commemorative T-shirt while supplies last.
“Trey McKenney is Flint Strong. His journey from our city to a national championship stage is proof that greatness lives here,” said Mayor Sheldon A. Neeley. “We are proud to celebrate him as both a champion and a role model for our youth.”
This win followed many accolades in McKenny’s high school career, including representing the United States National Team and winning a gold medal at the 2024 FIBA Under-18 AmeriCup. He was also named Mr. Basketball of Michigan and 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 questions, contact Phillip Thompson, community relations manager at the University of Michigan-Flint, at (810) 424-5489 or Amari Steward, executive director of Explore Flint & Genesee, at (810) 600-1405.