How a small Michigan town became center court for NCAA in Detroit, Final Four [Video]

DETROIT (FOX 2) – The drive from Amassa, Michigan to Little Caesar’s Arena in Detroit will take you roughly eight hours. But from that small, unincorporated community came a flourishing business that may not be known the world over – but is definitely used across the country. And this weekend, it takes center stage in Detroit for the next round of the NCAA Tournament.

Zach Riberdy is the marketing director for Connor Sports and, a few years ago, the Amassa-based company struck a deal with the NCAA to make basketball courts for the tournament.

That’s how maple trees from the U.P. are making their way to Detroit for the tournament.

“Now sending something to lower Michigan from upper Michigan, it’s crazy,” Riberdy said.

It’s a big moment for the basketball fan who has some connections to the madness that is March.

“My uncle who is a very polished and good division one college coach …