A year-end tip of the hat to our hometown hero

From A-Town to Brookings to Omaha to Beantown, Baylor Scheierman has given Aurora something to smile about, and this week locals returned the favor.
The News-Register’s annual Top 10 stories of the year poll is always a fun gig, giving readers an opportunity to look back over the past year and think about what headlines they’ll remember most from 2024. It’s a subjective process, obviously, as many could argue what stories, events and news of the day should even be nominated for consideration. 
This year’s final list includes a wide variety of topics, some tragic, some reflecting political differences of opinion, and some, as always here in Hamilton County, showcasing the progressive mindset, reputation and track record of our community. More than 100 area residents from throughout the county were invited to cast their ballots, with many commenting how much they enjoy the process. Thank you to those who participated.
Topping the list this year is a feel-good story that hit nothing but net.
Baylor Scheierman has earned a lot of titles and wordy accolades since he wore a Husky uniform. He gave locals some skin in the game and reason to root for a Nebraska team when he helped lead the Creighton Bluejays on two emotional March Madness runs. That was a hoot, to be sure, as big No. 55 always plays with raw, unabashed energy and a sense of flare that is uniquely his own.
ANR Sports Editor Rich Rhoden covered a game or three in the Big-O while Baylor was one of the stars of the show. On one of those outings he returned to our well-travelled pickup touting the ANR logo on the side, which prompted a Bluejay fan to send a message back to Aurora: The note read “We love Baylor!”
Somewhere in Boston, or perhaps Maine, where Mr. Scheierman is now finding his footing in the NBA getting some valuable reps with the Celtics’ G-League team in Portland, we hope this inspiring young man gets word of the message sent from his old hometown. He’s given us something to smile about, all while maintaining a genuine sense of connection that lets us know he’ll always be a Husky at heart.
Here’s to making more memories in 2025, Baylor.

KURT JOHNSON can be reached at kjohnson@ hamilton.net