Austin and Carson Knapp spend a lot of time in the gym. They aren't working out per se, but they are influencing the lives of young men in their hometown of Niles, Michigan.

The Knapp brothers serve their community two-fold - by day as I&M line workers and in the evenings as assistant coaches for the Brandywine High School boys basketball team. They spend long hours watching film, making plans and attending practices and games. For Austin and Carson, basketball is more than a sport - it's a family business.

"We grew up on the basketball court watching our dad, Nathan, coach. He's been with the Brandywine Bobcats for years," Austin said. "It's awesome how it has come full circle for me to be on the sidelines with him for the past nine years."

Carson is also spending significant time in the so-called "Bobcat Den" as he enters his third year of coaching. Both brothers played for their dad before swapping the jersey for the whistle.

"It's rewarding to assist my dad and brother with the team since we can relate to the players and help bridge that gap," Carson said. "The team atmosphere is something we grew up with, and it's cool to still be apart of it as a coach now instead of player."

In 2023, the Knapps led the Brandywine boys’ basketball team to its first Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 3 state title.

Teamwork doesn't end on the hardwood. Austin and Carson's fellow I&M line workers also support the brothers through the team's tough schedule.

"When we have practices and games - especially away games - everyone looks at our on-call schedule and help move things around if Carson and I need it," Austin said. "We also see a lot of I&M workers at games supporting us and the team. We're grateful that everyone at I&M comes together to help us show up for the team."

The team's pursuit for another state title is officially underway as the season kicks off. No matter what the scoreboard reads, the Knapps agree they've already won.

"We get to do what we love - ensuring our communities have safe and reliable power - showing up if the lights go out. And we show up for the team when they need us," Carson said. "We take what we learn at I&M and put that into a game plan with the team and vice versa. It's just really cool to be able to excel in both endeavors with the support of our families and everyone at I&M."