NMU men’s basketball assistant coach Dan Waterman has been busy these last few weeks recruiting players who’ve picked up awards throughout their high school basketball careers. Last weekend at the Negaunee Invitational Tournament, Waterman picked up his own piece of hardware.

“I’d be lying to you if I said I didn’t have a little extra bounce in my step these last couple days,” Waterman said. “People have been great about it.”

Waterman was named the tournament’s Class B MVP on Sunday, after his team, 41 Lumber, won their fourth consecutive Class B championship.

Waterman said the team was up against very talented competition this year.

“The best thing is that we won,” Waterman said. “I think class B is the best it’s ever been. So much better than it was when I was playing 8 or 9 years ago.”

Despite being older than most of the competition, Waterman and his teammates were able to win with smart basketball.

“We’re getting up there age-wise for that bracket and we aren’t as athletic,” Waterman said. “We have to compensate by trying to play smarter and be more efficient.”

Because of his age, Waterman said he’d need some time for recovery.

“At my age, I’m feeling the effects of it here two, three days later,” he said. “But, I really enjoyed myself. I love playing with those guys.”