A house RESOLUTION

 

tO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF MICHAEL LAW OF LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the death of Michael Law of Los Angeles, California, at the age of sixty-six on April 18, 2025. The eldest son of Joseph Law Jr. and Lena Mae Smalls Law, Michael was born on December 30, 1958, in Florence, South Carolina. His early years were spent in the public schools of Florence School District 1, where he graduated proudly from Wilson High School in 1976. He lettered in three sports in high school, baseball, football, and basketball. His faith and character were nurtured at Trinity Baptist Church; and

 

Whereas, following high school, Michael's journey took him to Benedict College, where he excelled both in the classroom and on the athletic field, but it was basketball that captured this gifted athlete's heart. As a passionate leader and playmaker, Michael helped steer Benedict College to its first­ever appearance in the NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament. His relentless spirit and talent earned him MVP honors for the 1976-1977 season, as well as All-Conference and All-District accolades. In 1979-1980, he helped lead the team to a remarkable 20-4 record and No. 8 national ranking in the Sheridan Poll of Black Colleges. In 2013, his enduring impact on the program was honored with his induction into the Benedict College Hall of Fame. In 2024, he was also inducted into the Wilson High School Hall of Fame; and

 

Whereas, Michael's love for the game carried him across the world playing professional basketball in Italy, Spain, and the Philippines. After several successful seasons overseas, he returned home, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a renewed passion for mentoring the next generation. He coached with Hoop Masters, helping them reach unprecedented heights, and later transitioned into the business world as a consultant with Stock Cross Financial Services. Yet basketball always called him back. Michael, helping rising stars carve their own professional paths, went on to consult for Rivals Sports Group, represent NBA players, and serve as a top scout for Overtime Elite; and

 

Whereas, however, Michael's true lifework extended far beyond any court or boardroom. His heart belonged to the youth he mentored, the lives he changed, and the dreams he helped shape. As owner and executive director of Cal Supreme Basketball, one of the most legendary AAU programs in the nation, Michael created a platform where countless young athletes could rise. Later, as co­director of Team WhyNot, he continued to build champions, guiding the team to national prominence, with highlights such as a 17U Peach Jam Runner-up finish (2018-2019), a 16U Peach Jam Championship (2021), and a 15U Peach Jam Championship (2024); and

 

Whereas, Michael was more than a coach; he was the beating heart of grassroots basketball across Southern California and the West Coast. Known affectionately as "Unc," he was a mentor, cheerleader, protector, and quiet force behind the dreams of thousands. Through Michael's tireless work, multitudes of young men and women earned college scholarships and changed the course of their futures. Many enjoyed professional careers in the NBA and beyond; and

 

Whereas, moreover, Michael's nonprofit, Neutral Grounds, brought hope to young people in gang-affected neighborhoods in Los Angeles through critical resources like job-interview training, GED preparation, computer literacy, and moral and spiritual guidance; and

 

Whereas, Michael leaves to cherish his memory his devoted siblings, the Reverend Dr. Terry B. Law Sr. (Phyllis) of Florence and Jolette Law of Columbia, as well as a host of other family members, colleagues, and friends. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire all who were privileged and blessed to know him. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Michael Law of Los Angeles, California, and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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