Team Soft members who won the 2018 Buffalo Road Invitational in Negaunee are, from left, Ben Luke, Brock Aho, Jacob Paupore and Nick Martin. (Submitted photo)

NEGAUNEE — Being called Soft usually isn’t something to be proud of, but one basketball team at the Buffalo Road Invitational wore that label with pride Sunday afternoon.

Team Soft took home the championship trophy after winning the third game 11-5 in the best-of-three championship series. The Softs were made up Ben Luke, Brock Aho, Jacob Paupore and Nick Martin.

It wasn’t just the Softs who left the Buffalo Road Court in a good mood, though. BRI organizer Doug Lindblom, who came up with idea of the tournament and has been running it for the past three seasons, said that the tournament was a success once again.

“We had a super good turnout,” Lindblom said. “It turned out to be a beautiful day and a great crowd came to enjoy some basketball.”

With renovations upcoming for the Buffalo Road court, this may be the final year of the BRI, but Lindblom was just happy with how the day went and was thankful for all of the support he has received.

“All of this was made possible by our sponsors,” he said. “All the players and I are extremely grateful for their support in allowing us to celebrate this unique court.”

Ryan Stieg can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 252. His email address is rstieg@miningjournal.net.