Mike Nichols, Bury

MVP MABL Cup 05/06

Mike first picked up a basketball at the age of eleven.  Twenty-two years ago!  The first time he bounced that ball he knew this was a game he could excel at.

During his school years at Canon Slade School in Bolton, he represented the North of England Team in his third fourth and fifth years, playing in a tournament against the Midlands, South East and South West, which also served as a selection process for the England team.  In his fifth year, he made it to the England squad but was neglected for the team, as he was eligible for only one year when they wanted a two-year development squad.

A highlight of his school days was winning the National School championship in 1989 against the sporting powerhouse from Somerset – Millfield.  Down by 16 at the half Canon Slade came back to win by two.  Mike had 31 in that game.

At 17 he was selected for the England Junior team and participated in a tournament in Etten Leur – Holland against, Croatians, Swede’s and French teams to name a few.  After a weekend of enthralling games and intense competition, England finished third.  Mike was named second MVP of the tournament behind a Croatian fella named Toni Kucok.  (Not really, Toni, but he did finish second).

Mike continued to play for Bury Lobos/Wildcats in the National league division one, slowly working his way up the ranks.   A prolific scorer and a defensive specialist he knew he had to work harder than others as at just 5’ 7” he had to bring hustle, determination and an arrogance if he were to succeed against his taller peers.  In one of his most memorable games playing against Crystal Palace and the legendary Alton Byrd he scored 27 and contained the American point guard.

Mike reached the pinnacle in 1994 when he made the National league Division one All Star team played in Coventry and was second highest scorer in that game.

He has been playing in the MABL since 1996 when Bury Wildcats folded from the National league and has had success with Bury, winning the league every season he has been part of the club.  So at the age of 32 his determination and grit still runs through his veins and is still considered one of the better players around.  Mike’s game is a mixture of fast pace, determination and flare for the unusual – a great passer and scorer and team player with a competitiveness that only his aging body can hold back.

However, there is a possibility of him coaching National League Division 3 for the 07/08 season.  Will he hang up his boots and let the new generation follow in his footsteps?  Who knows?