Marquette, MI – February 3rd 2026 – This week on The Big Local Sports Show, Mark Evans had the chance to sit down with Negaunee Miners varsity boys basketball coach Billy Hill for a great conversation. Evans, who was the play-by-play broadcaster during Hill’s 2000 state championship run, reunited with Hill as they reflected on his journey from high school, to college, and into his coaching career today.
Hill provided an update on the Miners’ season, including a recap of their big road win over a strong Houghton squad last night. That victory pushed Negaunee back above .500 and extended their winning streak to four games heading into tomorrow’s matchup against Jeffers. Hill also encouraged fans to come out and support the Miners as they close out the season, noting that the upcoming stretch will be a tough one.
The conversation also touched on Hill’s time at Northern Michigan University, where he began as a standout player. Hill scored over 1,500 career points, earned All-GLIAC Second Team honors twice, and still holds the NMU school record with 225 three-pointers made. He later returned to NMU as an assistant coach, gaining valuable experience learning from some of the best coaches in the area.
Joining us next week will be Cherise Wilkins, a Level 2 USA Speed Skating certified coach with more than 10 years of coaching experience. Wilkins has competed around the world and is one of the most decorated skaters in Syracuse Speedskating Club history. Her accolades include multiple national and North American championships, as well as being named Masters National Champion in 2018 and 2019. Tune in next week to hear her incredible journey.
The Big Local Sports Show will be live from Slabz Bar and Grill next Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. If you can’t make it in person, you can listen on Fox Sports Marquette 105.1 and 99.9, catch the replay at 6:00 p.m. on 97.5 GTO, or watch the show streamed live on the mediaBrew Communications Facebook page.
