The Torberts: Dad and Son Mr. Basketball?

The Torberts: Could Kelvin Torbert Sr. and KJ Torbert be the first Michigan Dad and Son Mr. Basketball winners?

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

1/2/20263 min read

If The Simpsons Can Predict the Future, Sports Kickback Might Be Next

For decades, The Simpsons have amazed the world by seemingly predicting the future — from technological breakthroughs to cultural moments no one saw coming. At this point, it almost feels less like coincidence and more like foresight. At Sports Kickback, we’re starting to feel that same energy when it comes to calling the future of sports — especially when you look at what’s unfolding this season in East Lansing.

If you’ve been paying attention, the future has a name: KJ Torbert.

A Season That Feels Inevitable

East Lansing is currently riding a 30-game winning streak, and at the heart of it all is Torbert, who has put together one of the most complete and dominant seasons in the state of Michigan. Night after night, he’s been the steady force, the closer, and the emotional leader for a team that simply refuses to lose.

This isn’t just a hot stretch — it’s a season that’s starting to feel historic.

Mr. Basketball Momentum Is Real

As the season progresses, Torbert has firmly positioned himself as a lead candidate for Michigan’s Mr. Basketball award. His consistency, scoring ability, poise in big moments, and impact on winning separate him from the pack. He doesn’t just fill up the stat sheet — he controls games.

If the award is truly about excellence, leadership, and winning at the highest level, Torbert checks every box.

And if he does take home the honor later this year, history will be made.

A Father-Son Legacy in the Making

KJ Torbert isn’t just chasing individual accolades — he’s chasing legacy.

His father, Kelvin Torbert Sr., is a Flint Northwest all-time great and former Michigan State Spartan, where he left his own mark at the collegiate level. If KJ wins Mr. Basketball, it would mark the first time in Michigan history that both a father and son have captured the prestigious award.

That’s not just rare — that’s legendary.

Built for Big Moments

Torbert has proven time and time again that the stage is never too big. Back in December vs #9 Detroit King, he delivered one of the most memorable moments of the season with a clutch buzzer-beater jumpshot, the kind of shot that lives on long after the final horn.

He followed that up with another statement performance against #4 Brother Rice at Ferndale, rising to the occasion in a high-profile matchup and once again showing why he’s one of the most trusted players in the state when the pressure is highest.

These aren’t accidents. These are habits.

The Next Chapter: Bowling Green Bound

Torbert’s future is already taking shape at the next level. He’s committed to Bowling Green, becoming one of the latest Michigan standouts to head to the MAC and continue building his name. His versatility, basketball IQ, and competitive edge project well to the college game, and Bowling Green is getting a player who understands how to win.

Sports Kickback’s Prediction

If The Simpsons have taught us anything, it’s that sometimes the signs are right in front of us before history happens. At Sports Kickback, we’re not saying we predict the future — but when you look at KJ Torbert’s season, the trajectory feels clear.

A 30-game win streak. A Mr. Basketball-caliber season. A chance to make father-son history. A college commitment locked in.

Some futures just feel inevitable.

And KJ Torbert’s is one worth watching.