Get to know “The Bug” Michael Bruni

Ryan Meis, Sports Editor, Deputy Video Editor|February 11, 2020

The+Bug+creates+chaos+on+the+court+during+the+JV+boys+basketball+game+vs.+Baldwin+on+Jan.+14.

Evan Manion

“The Bug” creates chaos on the court during the JV boys basketball game vs. Baldwin on Jan. 14.

The legend of “The Bug” has grown more and more with every game during this basketball season.

Sophomore guard Michael Bruni is the man behind “The Bug.”

Why? Opponents just can’t get rid of him, and he’s everywhere on the court.

Standing at 5-foot-5, the fan-favorite has embraced the love and thrived in his role this season for the Hawks, who have clinched a playoff berth in the loaded 6A Section 2.

When asked if he likes the nickname Bug, Bruni said, “Yes, it’s cool.”

Bruni has been not only a fan favorite but has earned the respect of his veteran teammates that he plays alongside.

Q&A

Favorite food – Barbecue wings

Favorite restaurant – Chipotle

Favorite movie – “Remember the Titans”

All-time favorite TV show – “Drake and Josh”

If you could have dinner with three other people, who would they be? Kobe, Lebron, and my deceased grandfather

If you were stranded on an island with one person, who would you want to be there with?  Gary Goga

Favorite teacher that you’ve ever had – Mrs. Pacek

You’ve been known to run into some big celebrities in your travels, but who is the biggest you’ve ever met?  Giannis Antetokounmpo

Your dad used to own a pizza shop (Napoli’s); is his pizza your favorite? Yes, but I don’t eat red sauce.

“Michael Bruni is the type of guy that you want on your team. He brings much-needed energy off the bench, and it’s fun to watch him get after it,” said senior sharpshooter Tommy “Bones” DiRienzo.

Bruni has been so effective in his playing time that the coaching staff has implemented a defense that is only used when Bruni is in the game, with a very creative name: CHAOS.

“I just run around and try to create as much havoc as I can. I just try to do my job in the front line and trust my teammates that they will have the passing lanes cut down on the backline,” said the son of Jack and Joan.

As “The Bug” and his teammates start their quest for a WPIAL championship later this week, he looks to continue his play and help the team in any way that he can.

“We all know what the ultimate goal is, we’re focused and ready to go.”