The Storm Lake Boys Basketball Team has been selected as the 2026 Grand Marshal for this year’s Star Spangled Spectacular Parade.
The announcement came Monday from event organizers, who said multiple community nominations highlighted the team’s impact both on and off the court. The players will lead the July 4th parade through Storm Lake as part of the community’s annual Independence Day celebration.
2026 Commodores Tyler and Deidre Aube said the choice quickly rose to the top after reviewing the submissions.
In a joint statement, the Aubes said the team “represents what makes our community special,” noting both their athletic success and their commitment to serving younger students across the district. They praised the players for becoming role models and demonstrating what it means to give back to the community.
Throughout the school year, team members have volunteered in elementary classrooms — reading with students, helping with schoolwork, encouraging academic progress and building relationships with children throughout Storm Lake schools.
Nominations submitted to the committee emphasized the team’s leadership, character and influence on younger students. Community members described the players as positive examples who show kindness, respect and a willingness to invest time in the next generation.
The Star Spangled Spectacular Committee said the team’s service, leadership and community involvement make them a deserving choice for this year’s honor.
