EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Mikyla Grant-Mentis aka "Buckey" Brings Energy and Bespoke Tunnel Fits to Seattle!
- Erica L. Ayala
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Hey Seattle hockey fans!
We’re back with another jam-packed edition of the 206 Sports Collective newsletter! In our latest episode, host Erica L. Ayala sat down for an inspiring, hilarious, and thoughtful conversation with Seattle Torrent center Mikyla Grant-Mentis (aka "Buckey" or "MGM").
Here's a summary of the interview for those who still like to read, lol!
🏒 Why Bucky Still Loves Hockey
It’s not just the thrill of the game that keeps Grant-Mentis coming back—it's the people. After moving from Montreal to Seattle, she shared how building connections has been key.
"You meet new people everywhere...that's something that I love to do and I just, I love it. Playing against my best friend in Toronto was my favorite thing!"
🔥 The Torrent’s Chemistry is Heating Up
After a slow start, MGM and her linemates are finding their groove. She broke down what’s clicking.
"We’re making it work now. We figured out how to put the puck in the back of the net, so it's, it's working and it's feeling good for us now."Expect more grit, speed, and teamwork from this line!
💃 Tunnel Fits? All Mom!
Fashion fans, here’s the scoop: those headline-worthy tunnel fits aren’t Buckey’s doing. She credits her mom for picking all her game-day looks (even FaceTiming for last checks!).
"Everyone always thinks it's me, but the person that picks all my outfits is my mother."
Stick taps, Mrs. Sandra Grant-Mentis!
🤎 Culture & Nicknames
The secret’s out: “Bucky” isn’t about teeth. The nickname traces back to a childhood helmet and has stuck ever since.
Plus, she opened up about recently discovering her family's Métis and Indigenous roots.
"It's honestly pretty cool...the more we find, it's nice to see that we have different things inside of us."
Representation is growing, and Buckey’s proud to help broaden the game’s reach.MGM is also learning more about the Indigenous communities of the Pacific Northwest now that she's playing professional hockey in Seattle with the PWHL expansion team.
Later this month, the Torrent will also celebrate Black Hockey History and Culture. I will be on hand for the festivities, so stay tuned on social media for updates.
🏆 Playing for a Legend
During her time in Toronto, Michaela Grant-Mentis was coached by none other than Hockey Hall of Famer Angela James.
The experience?
“Surreal and inspiring.” And, yes, Angela’s still got stories about the good ol’ days of body checks!
🎉 Olympic Buzz and Friendly Wagers
With several Torrent teammates headed to the Olympics, expect some friendly Team USA vs. Team Canada banter in the locker room.
"Once we get started, there will definitely be a little bit of wagers when the games start,"
Buckey said.
Chripping isn't really part of her game, but her speed and tenacity are plenty difficult to defend without the verbal sass!
What’s Next?
206 Sports Collective will have boots on the ground as the Seattle Torrent celebrates Black History Month! Keep listening for more exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and all things Seattle sports.
Catch the full episode wherever you get your podcasts—and we’ll see you at the rink!
Go Torrent!— The 206 Sports Collective Team
P.S. Got a question or want us to cover a specific player or game?
Hit reply and let us know!
EDITOR'S NOTE:
Although AI was used to summarize original and referenced content in this post, it was edited and posted by Black Rosie Media staff.
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