Live Like Madden Night 🖤🏀

A Night That Felt Like Madden Was With Us

On January 30, in many gyms, hundreds of people, and two communities came together for something much bigger than basketball games.

At Farmington High School and Blackduck High School, friends, families, students, and neighbors gathered for Live Like Madden Night—a night dedicated to honoring Madden’s life and carrying forward the spirit that meant so much to so many.

From the moment the doors opened, you could feel it. The energy in every gym was powerful. The stands were full, the cheers were loud, and the sense of community was unmistakable.

Seeing teams across the court wearing shirts with Madden’s #30 was a powerful reminder that his presence is still everywhere. In moments like those, you could almost hear him shouting, “Take the shot!”

It was a night of basketball—but more importantly, it was a night of love.

Community Showing Up for Something Bigger

Because of the incredible support from both communities, the Madden McKean Foundation raised $6,500 during the events.

Even more meaningful, 100% of the funds raised will go directly toward continuing the foundation’s mission—helping students succeed and ensuring opportunities remain available for young people in our schools.

These funds will support:

• Scholarships for graduating seniors
• Assistance for students who may need a helping hand
• Funding for school activities across departments, including athletics, drama, music, and more
• Every dollar raised represents someone choosing to give back and invest in the next generation.

A Night Filled With Heart

The athletes took the court with intensity, passion, and pride. Every play was met with cheers from the stands, and the excitement never slowed down.

One of the most memorable moments of the night came during halftime in Farmington with the crowd-favorite Swish for Sweets event.

Fans stepped onto the court, one after another, and shot after shot dropped through the hoop. By the end of the challenge, supporters had made a record-breaking 52 baskets, sending the gym into a celebration of cheers and laughter.

Moments like that are what make community events so special—people coming together, sharing joy, and creating memories.

Businesses That Believe in Community

Live Like Madden Night was also made possible thanks to the generosity of local businesses that stepped forward to match donations and support the cause.

A heartfelt thank you to:

• Fritz Mechanical
• Pam McCarthy Agency
• Farmington Pizza Man
• Market on Oak
• Town Sports

Your generosity helps turn community support into real opportunities for students.

Blackduck Showing Its Heart

In Blackduck, the community rallied together just as powerfully. Fans participated in a split-the-pot fundraiser and halftime shoot-outs during both varsity games.

A special thank you also goes to the Kelliher-Northome and Blackduck varsity teams for being part of such a meaningful night.

Because of the incredible success in both towns, the Madden McKean Foundation will be donating funds back to each community’s basketball programs, continuing the cycle of giving and support.

A Night That Felt Like Madden Was Right There

For many who were there, the feeling was hard to describe—but easy to recognize.

The laughter in the stands.
The cheers after every basket.
The hugs between friends and families.

It all carried the kind of energy that reminded everyone why this night exists. From our family, the foundation, and all of Madden’s friends—thank you.

Thank you for showing up.
Thank you for supporting students.
Thank you for helping keep Madden’s spirit alive.

In many ways, it truly felt like Madden was right there with us—cheering everyone on in life.

And together, we will continue to honor his legacy by lifting others up, supporting our schools, and strengthening the communities he loved.

Let’s all keep Living Like Madden.

🖤🏀 #LiveLikeMadden #CommunityStrong #HoopsForGood #LLM #LLM30