by orionontv | Feb 26, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 25th at 10:45 AM
Here are the Girls Basketball District matchups and preview looking ahead.
Here is deeper insight of each district.
https://saginawbay4650.blogspot.com/2023/06/written-tuesday-june-20th-at-920-am.html
District 60 @ Harper Woods
Eastpointe vs HARPER WOODS
Detroit East English Village Prep vs Harper Woods Chandler Park
THOUGHTS: This does not look like a very strong district. Harper Woods has some experience despite having a losing record. The Pioneers have played a very difficult schedule based on the MPR but have struggled as of late. Eastpointe has the most wins out of this group but the strength of schedule is not the greatest for the Shamrocks. Harper Woods Chandler Park has the second seed but the Eagles could make amends in the tournament despite their struggles. Detroit East English has really under performed this season but like Harper Woods Chandler Park they could make amends in the postseason. Harper Woods is the favorite in this district but they could get upset by Eastpointe in the district semifinals if they aren’t careful.
District 58 @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY vs Detroit Lincoln King
Winner plays Birmingham Detroit Country Day in district semifinals
Detroit University Prep vs Detroit Henry Ford
Winner plays FERNDALE in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This district is shaping up to be a Ferndale vs Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the district final. The Yellow Jackets have had a really strong season and look to keep that momentum going. Detroit Lincoln King could give them some fits in the district semifinals pending if they can get by Ferndale University in the first round. The Eagles have had a strong season winning the Gold and have been battle tested. They edged out Detroit Lincoln King for the second seed. Detroit Henry Ford could give Ferndale some trouble in the district semifinals. Overall I see this being a district final preview as mentioned between the two seeded teams.
District 32 @ Lapeer
Holly vs Lapeer
Winner plays Grand Blanc in district semifinals
Davison vs OXFORD-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Grand Blanc looks to be the favorite because of their strength of schedule but keep an eye on Oxford. The Wildcats went to the Red this season just for this moment. Grand Blanc has beaten Oxford three straight years but there are some who believe this is the Wildcats time to break through the Bobcats wall. Oxford will have to get past Davison again if they want to make it back to the district finals. The Wildcats beat the Cardinals 42-34 earlier in the season at Ian Smith Gym but the foot injury to Sophia Rabb will be worth monitoring to see if she comes back for the district. Grand Blanc will see the winner of Lapeer and Holly in the district semifinals. Both teams have really struggled this season but the Lightning have a win over Davison in the regular season. This should be a Wildcats/Bobcats district final on paper but you never know.
District 29 @ Waterford Mott
Waterford Mott vs CLARKSTON
Waterford Kettering vs LAKE ORION
THOUGHTS: This district has the makings of a Lake Orion/Clarkston district finals which seems likely at the moment where both teams won at home in their two Red matchups (Clarkston 60-48, Lake Orion 49-48.) Waterford Kettering and Waterford Mott doesn’t really match up well to the Dragons and Wolves respectively. Clarkston has won several games behind their balance attack of Brooklyn Covert, Ellery Hernandez, Ellie Mourner, Marly Mazur, and Emily Valencia. They have been without their best player in Ellianna Robak who has been battling an ankle injury she injured against the Dragons in their regular season meeting at Lake Orion. Lake Orion has found multiple ways to win after some really tough losses in the middle of the season. The Dragons have relied on Izzy Wotlinski, Ryan Pawalcyzk, Ellie Britt, Lexie Stroschein, Charlotte Peplowski, and Neveah Wood along with timely defense in that stretch. This district as I said in June will be colored in green and white or blue and gold.
District 28 @ Troy Athens
BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs TROY ATHENS
Winner plays TROY in district semifinals
AVONDALE vs SEAHOLM- district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This district is very interesting when looking at the teams, it’s anyone’s for the taking. Seaholm got the best part of the draw having to play Avondale in the district semifinals where they won 64-42 in Birmingham earlier in the season. The Maples clinched at least a share of the White with their win over Harper Woods. The Maples beat Bloomfield Hills 53-37 at Little Caesars Arena earlier in the season but they have not played Troy or Troy Athens this season. The Yellow Jackets have been injury riddled all season. Troy has really improved since their 3-7 start and have played much better in recent weeks. The Colts have a daunting task awaiting them, they could see either Bloomfield Hills or Troy Athens which should be very interesting in the district semifinals. Troy has a 54-51 win at Troy Athens earlier in the season but they haven’t played the Blackhawks this season. Whoever wins this district would have earned it.
District 27 @ Stoney Creek
ADAMS vs Utica Eisenhower
Winner plays STONEY CREEK in district semifinals
ROCHESTER vs Romeo-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district on Tienken and Sheldon Road. Stoney Creek has beaten everyone in this district at least once this season but they struggled as of late with the rough and tear of the Red. The Cougars will see either Adams or Utica Eisenhower in the district semifinals. The Highlanders are better than their record says they are and they gave Stoney Creek everything they could handle in the Crosstown Showdown. The Eagles are not an easy team either by any stretch. On the other side of the bracket, this is the worst matchup for Romeo having to play Rochester. The Falcons have two very talented bigs in Alice Max and Kylie Robinson and despite their record, Rochester has been here before. The Bulldogs have had a really good season but playing the Falcons is a tough chore. This should be a very interesting district, Stoney Creek is the favorite because of home court and proven experience players in Sarah LaPraire, Merrick Schlawbach, and Izzy Ivezaj but they have several roadblocks ahead of them in the postseason.
District 23 @ Warren Cousino
Warren Mott vs Sterling Heights
Winner plays Warren Cousino in district semifinals
GROVES vs ROYAL OAK-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district. Royal Oak had the top seed all but wrapped up but they fell 46-42 to Groves in Beverly Hills in a very good game. The loss to the Falcons placed the Ravens into the second seed which means they will rematch the Falcons for the third time in the district semifinals (Royal Oak won first meeting 38-31 in Royal Oak.) Warren Cousino benefited from this outcome by getting the top seed and will await Warren Mott or Sterling Heights in the district semifinals. The Patriots have won 15 games this season which included a 50-47 win over Seaholm in Warren and they have home court. It will be very interesting to see what OAA team awaits them in the district final unless they get upset which is unlikely. Warren Cousino is the favorite because of home court but Royal Oak and Groves have other plans in mind.
District 22 @ Farmington Hills Mercy
NORTH FARMINGTON vs FARMINGTON
Winner plays West Bloomfield in district semifinals
Birmingham Marian vs Farmington Hills Mercy-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district with powerhouse names. North Farmington and Farmington will have a rematch in the first round after the Raiders won 59-12 over the Falcons earlier in the season. Whoever wins that game will play West Bloomfield in the district semifinals. The Lakers are the overwhelming favorite in this district with proven experience in Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Sheridan Beal, Destiny Washington, and Ava Lord. Whoever wins that side of the district will get a Catholic League power in the district finals. Birmingham Marian or Farmington Hills Mercy in part four of their season series (Catholic League and the Catholic League playoffs) in the district semifinals with the winner likely having to face the Lakers in the district finals. I don’t see how anyone in this district will give West Bloomfield a game.
District 21 @ Berkley
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs OAK PARK
Winner plays Detroit Renaissance in district semifinals
BERKLEY vs Redford Thurston
Winner plays Detroit Mumford in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This district is very interesting on Catalpa Drive. Detroit Renaissance is the favorite and are veteran heavy. Southfield Arts and Tech could give the Phoenix some trouble in the district semifinals with their athleticism and speed pending if they can get by Oak Park. Berkley and Redford Thurston should be very interesting with both teams winning double digit games this season. The Bears have been playing really good basketball behind the play of Maeve Nolan, Madi Boswall, Hailey Kirkwood, Nadia Watt, Avery Wintergarden, Kaitlyn Sills, and others. The winner will play Detroit Mumford in the district semifinals which should be very interesting. The Mustangs have played a really tough schedule so don’t let their record deceive you they are well coached and very good. This is shaping up to be a very good district at Berkley.
by orionontv | Feb 26, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday February 24th at 5:00 PM
All first round matchups are on top with the second on the bottom. The top plays at 5:30 on Monday and Wednesday while bottom plays at 7 PM on the same days. The district finals for each will play on Friday at 7 PM unless proven otherwise.
Here is a more detailed preview from June.
https://saginawbay4650.blogspot.com/2023/06/boys-basketball-districts-are-out-2024.html
District 58 @ Harper Woods Chandler Park
Detroit East English Village Prep vs St. Clair Shores South Lake
Winner plays Harper Woods Chandler Park in district semifinals
Detroit Denby Tech vs Eastpointe
Winner plays HARPER WOODS in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: The Pioneers might have gotten the best draw in this district. The Eagles will likely have to see Detroit East English Village Prep pending if they get by the Cavaliers in the first round. Harper Woods Chandler Park’s best win was over Flint New Standard Academy. Harper Woods has played a tough schedule in the White. Detroit East English is the sleeper who could ruin an all Harper Woods district final.
District 59 @ Detroit Pershing
Detroit Pershing vs Hazel Park
Winner plays Warren Lincoln in district semifinals
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY vs Detroit Osborn
Winner plays FERNDALE in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This district looks like it’s going to be Ferndale against Warren Lincoln district final like last season when the Eagles used this win to springboard them to the Division Two State crown. Detroit Pershing is a sleeper and could give the Abes some big problems in the district semifinals. On the other side, Detroit Osborn is not a bad team, they could give Ferndale some trouble in the district semifinals. Both the Eagles and the Abes have been ranked in Division Two for a long while now, it shouldn’t be any different especially with the winner likely going to make a deep postseason run.
District 30 @ Adams
STONEY CREEK vs Utica Eisenhower
Winner plays Utica in district semifinals
ROCHESTER vs Romeo
Winner plays ADAMS in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district at the corner of Adams and Tienken Road. Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower have golden opportunities to get to the district final and they will meet each other in the first round. I haven’t been sold on Utica all season despite winning the Macomb Area Conference Blue along with wins over Romeo and Utica Eisenhower however they were crushed by Warren De LaSalle and fell to Chippewa Valley last week. On the other side, Adams looks like they are the team to beat, they will get the winner of a star studded guard matchup between Max Mohl of Rochester and Aiden Tague of Romeo. The Falcons are scorching right now. This has the makings of a Highlanders/Chieftains district final. I would be more concerned with Utica’s path then I would with Adams but Rochester could give them some trouble if the Highlanders aren’t careful.
District 29 @ Troy Athens
SEAHOLM vs BLOOMFIELD HILLS
Winner plays Birmingham Brother Rice in district semifinals
TROY vs TROY ATHENS-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a Birmingham Brother Rice/Troy district final but can’t count out Troy Athens. The Red Hawks are the hosts and have had a good season despite falling twice to the Colts. It’s very hard to beat a team three times in a season. Bloomfield Hills has that same dilemma against Seaholm in the first round but the winner will have a really tough matchup with Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. The Warriors are the favorite because of their size but you can’t count the city of Troy out just yet.
District 28 @ Waterford Kettering
LAKE ORION vs Waterford Kettering
Winner plays Waterford Mott in district semifinals
CLARKSTON vs PONTIAC
Winner plays AVONDALE in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This should be a very competitive district. Waterford Mott is the early favorite but Lake Orion could give them some problems in the district semifinals should the Dragons get past Waterford Kettering in the first round. On the other side, Clarkston looks to be the favorite to get to the district finals but former Wolves standout Andrew Myers stands in the way and he brings the Phoenix into a first round matchup and Clarkston has been around 500 this season. Whoever wins gets Avondale in the district semifinals which should be very interesting. Anyone can win this district, that is for sure.
District 27 @ Grand Blanc
Holly vs Lapeer
Winner plays Davison in district semifinals
OXFORD vs Grand Blanc-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting storyline. Davison has been very good all season while Grand Blanc has enjoyed a resurgence after a rough start. The Bobcats have a very interesting matchup with Oxford in the district semifinals. The Wildcats bring the best player in the district in Jake Champagne. Holly could give the Cardinals some trouble in the district semifinals pending if they get by Lapeer. This should be a very interesting district in Genesee County.
District 25 @ Lakeland
Lakeland vs Walled Lake Northern
Winner plays Orchard Lake St. Marys in district semifinals
Walled Lake Central vs Walled Lake Western
Winner plays WEST BLOOMFIELD in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district, Orchard Lake St. Marys got the top seed and the best draw knowing that West Bloomfield and Walled Lake Central will likely see each other in the district semifinals even though the Vikings have lost two straight games with one to Walled Lake Northern which was surprising. The Knights could give the Eaglets some trouble in the district semifinals although it’s not likely to occur. This could be a battle of Orchard Lake district final which seems possible at the moment.
District 24 @ Livonia Stevenson
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs Livonia Franklin
Winner plays NORTH FARMINGTON in district semifinals
FARMINGTON vs Redford Thurston
Winner plays Livonia Stevenson in district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in northern Wayne County. North Farmington got a really good draw but they have struggled in recent weeks. Farmington lost their chance at the two seed to Warren Michigan Collegiate. It is unknown if Greg Grays will give it a go with his foot injury but if he does, it’s a big boost for the Falcons. I’m not sold on Livonia Stevenson despite them being the host. Whoever wins that side of the draw will have a really tough time with the Raiders in the district finals.
District 23 @ Groves
OAK PARK vs ROYAL OAK
Winner plays GROVES in district semifinals
BERKLEY vs Warren Mott-district semifinals
THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district, Groves is the top seed however Oak Park could give the Falcons big time trouble if the Knights are healthy in the district semifinals pending if Oak Park can get by Royal Oak who has really struggled by going 1-7 in their last eight games in the first round. Berkley is on the other side and should get past Warren Mott in the district semifinals. The Bears should await the winner in the district finals. This is a three team district for sure.
by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday February 17th at 7:20 PM
Seaholm will go a different direction next season with their boys basketball program.
The Maples confirmed by Brandon Folsom of Hometown Life said that they have let coach Mike DeGeeter go. Folsom mentioned it on X formerly Twitter on Saturday.
It is unknown what led to the departure of DeGeeter. He was let go after the loss on Thursday to Bloomfield Hills.
Will Broner was named the interim coach for the rest of the season.
DeGeeter took over the Seaholm program in 2014. He went 83-126 in his 10 years coaching the program.
It will be very interesting to see what happens with the rest of the season and in the future for the Maples especially with the postseason starting next week.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
Here is the tweet confirming DeGeeter’s departure.
https://twitter.com/folsombrandonj/status/1758939549776945525
by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday February 17th at 7:30 PM
- Troy (18-1): Colts have the best starting intro music in the league.
- West Bloomfield (15-5): Lakers looked a little out of sync against Clarkston.
- North Farmington (17-2): Raiders still haven’t been themselves lately.
- Adams (13-6): Peter Kardasis needs to be on the floor, if not the Highlanders are in trouble.
- Ferndale (11-8): Eagles have to get things figured out and soon.
- Groves (10-10): Paul Hubbard has been huge for the Falcons.
- Clarkston (10-10): Postseason goals are still in front of the Wolves.
- Troy Athens (12-7): Red Hawks need Griffin LaBay to be at his best or they are in trouble.
- Avondale (15-6): Tuesday decides it all.
- Harper Woods (7-11): Pioneers have been playing much better since the loss to Seaholm.
- Oxford (14-6): Tuesday decides it all.
- Lake Orion (13-7): Quay Fly has been playing well lately.
- Farmington (11-9): Greg Grays has led the Falcons resurgence.
- Berkley (13-6): Bears are gearing up for the postseason.
- Pontiac (12-8): Phoenix have been up and down lately.
- Rochester (6-15): Falcons have won three straight.
- Bloomfield Hills (5-14): Phil Muhammad and D’Ron Mason are the next stars in the making.
- Seaholm (6-15): Maples going through a lot right now.
- Stoney Creek (5-14): Gideon Beers and Tyree Smith can straight out play.
- Oak Park (4-14): Knights need to get healthy and quick.
- Royal Oak (9-11): Ravens are 1-6 since the Stoney Creek loss.
- Ferndale University (2-17): Eagles really struggling right now.
- Southfield Arts and Tech (2-18): Warriors really struggling right now.
by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 18th at 10:10 AM
West Bloomfield (22): The Lakers are locked in as the top seed in their district which means they would see either North Farmington or Farmington in the district semifinals and either Birmingham Marian or Farmington Hills Mercy in the district finals. West Bloomfield should be battle tested as we get deeper into the season. Coach Darryl McAllister has this team believing right now for another deep postseason run.
Rochester (27): This is the best case for the Falcons. They are locked in as the A team in the district which means they would play Romeo in the district semifinals and have their possible rematch with Stoney Creek in the district finals. Coach Bill Thurston’s team might be the most dangerous team in this district.
Stoney Creek (27): The Cougars are locked in as the top seed in their district which means they would get the bye and plays Adams or Utica Eisenhower in the district semifinals. Stoney Creek has wins over Utica Eisenhower, Adams, Rochester, and Romeo as well. There has to be a sense of concern for Coach Columbus Williams’s team because they have had battles with these respective teams and had to survive them. If they get Rochester in the district finals that would be very interesting. (Stoney Creek won both games by a combined three points). The Cougars have home court but they have shown at times they can be vulnerable.
Lake Orion (29): The Dragons are locked into the second seed in their district. They will see Waterford Kettering in the district semifinals. Lake Orion could see arch rival Clarkston in the district finals which both teams split their regular season series. It should be a very interesting matchup to see for Coach Bob Brydges’s team.
Clarkston (29): The Wolves are locked into the top seed in their district. They will see Waterford Mott in the district semifinals. Clarkston could see arch rival Lake Orion in the district finals which both teams split their regular season series. It should be a very interesting matchup to see for Coach Aaron Goodnough’s team.
Oxford (32): The Wildcats are locked into the second seed in their district which means they could see Grand Blanc in the district finals. Coach Rachel Bryer’s team will see Davison in the district semifinals with Grand Blanc waiting the winner of Holly and Lapeer. The Wildcats won 42-34 over the Cardinals on December Seventh. Oxford will be a very interesting team to watch in their district.
Royal Oak (23): The Ravens will likely be seeded, the question is where will they be seeded??? Coach Brian Sopota’s team has the top seed in their district for now but they could fall into the two seed and their district is at Warren Cousino which means they could see the Patriots in the district finals. They will see Sterling Heights, or Warren Mott if they are the top seed and Groves if they are the second seed. Either way the Ravens are in a good spot.
Bloomfield Hills (28): The Blackhawks are in a battle for one of the two seeds in the district. They are behind Seaholm and Troy but they are within striking distance. If Coach Kristen Massey’s team doesn’t get one of the two seeds then they would be the B team in the district which means they could play Troy Athens on that Monday. It’s still very much wide open as of right now and if they can get one of the two seeds then they won’t have to play on that Monday.
Harper Woods (60): The Pioneers is the top seed in their district for now but Eastpointe and Harper Woods Chandler Park are within striking distance if Coach LaTonya Tate’s team is not careful. They would meet either Eastpointe or Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinals pending what happens with the two seed. If the Pioneers are not seeded they would be the B team in the district which doesn’t seem likely as of right now. Harper Woods if they can keep winning will be seeded in a district where everyone plays on Wednesday.
Seaholm (28): The Maples have the top seed for now in their district but just barely. Troy is right behind them and Bloomfield Hills is not too far behind. If Seaholm doesn’t get either seed they would be the B team in the district which would mean Coach Chris Manchester’s team would have to play Troy Athens on that Monday and if they win they would play the top seed on Wednesday in the district semifinals. If the Maples keep winning they could keep that top seed in their grasp, they don’t want to be the team playing on that Monday.
Groves (23): The Falcons are locked as the A team in their district. Groves has been up and down this season for Coach Alison Hidey. They could see Warren Cousino in the district semifinals which is a tough matchup since the district is at Warren Cousino. This presents an opportunity for Hidey as they have played a much tougher schedule but it is a test for sure for the Falcons.
North Farmington (22): The Raiders are locked as the C team in their district which means they could play Farmington in the first round in which they won their regular season meeting 59-12 on December eighteenth. If they win over their arch rivals then they would see West Bloomfield in the district semifinals. Coach Michael Allan has done a great job in his first season with North Farmington but in the district, his team got sentenced by the district formula.
Southfield Arts and Tech (21): The Warriors have an outside shot of being seeded but they need some help when it comes to that situation. Coach Shaquita Coltrane’s team is the D team in their district for now. It would mean that they would play Oak Park in the first round and possibly Detroit Mumford in the district semifinals if they win. Southfield Arts and Tech could have a strong say with their high octane offense and a much better path toward the district finals.
Troy (28): The Colts are in a battle for one of the two seeds. They are the second seed for now in their district where they are behind Seaholm and just ahead of Bloomfield Hills. If Coach Laura Guzman’s team doesn’t get seeded they would be deemed the B team in the district meaning they would have to play on that Monday against Troy Athens. It’s interesting to see where the Colts are at.
Berkley (21): The Bears got a raw end of the deal when it comes to the MPR but they are within striking distance of Detroit Mumford. They are the A team if they are not seeded meaning they would have to play Redford Thurston on that Monday but see Detroit Renaissance in the district semifinals. Coach Clay Shaver had done a very good job with his team this season. Berkley is a sleeper in this district.
Adams (27): The Highlanders are locked in as the B team in the district meaning they would have to play Utica Eisenhower in the first round then if they get by the Eagles which would be a tall task then they would play Stoney Creek or Romeo in the district semifinals. Adams played Stoney Creek very tough in the Crosstown Showdown. Coach Joe Malburg’s team is playing with nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Troy Athens (28): The Red Hawks have an outside shot of being seeded in their district but they need some help. Coach Stacie Klumpp’s team would be the C team if they do not get seeded meaning they would be playing on that Monday against Seaholm, Bloomfield Hills, or Troy. Whoever wins would play the top seed in the district semifinals. Troy Athens is a dangerous team for anyone to play against in their district.
Farmington (22): The Falcons are locked in as the B team in their district which means they will play North Farmington in the first round. Farmington fell 59-12 to North Farmington on December Eighteenth. If they win that game then they see West Bloomfield in the district semifinals. Coach Natalie Nowak’s team basically got sentenced by the district formula.
Avondale (28): The Yellow Jackets are locked as the A team in their district meaning they would have to play the two seed in the district semifinals and it could be Seaholm, Troy, or Bloomfield Hills. It’s a tough matchup either way for Coach Roy Christmon and Avondale.
Ferndale (58): The Eagles are in a very interesting spot when it comes to the postseason. They are the two seed for now but it’s close with Detroit Lincoln King Academy. If Ferndale gets jumped they would be the C team in the district which could be a very bad matchup with Detroit Henry Ford in the first round and Detroit Lincoln King Academy in the district semifinals with playing Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the district finals. A lot could happen between now and next week when it comes to Coach Keith Paris’s team.
Ferndale University (58): The Eagles are locked in as the D team in the district meaning they would have to play Detroit Henry Ford in the first round and if they get by that then they would play Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the district semifinals. It’s going to be very tough for Coach Brianna Rowe’s team either way.
Oak Park (21): The Knights are locked in as the B team in their district which means they would play Southfield Arts and Tech in the first round on that Monday. If they upset the Warriors then they would play Detroit Mumford in the district semifinals. It’s going to be very tough for Coach Tyler Washington and Oak Park with how they have struggled this season.
Pontiac: The Phoenix have dropped out of the postseason which was very surprising. If they were in the district, they would have had a tough matchup with Lake Orion in the district semifinals but it is what is.
Here is the Girls Basketball MPR formula.
https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2023-24/2023-24%20FINAL%20GBB.pdf
by orionontv | Feb 20, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 11th at 10:25 AM
Updated Sunday February 18th at 8:28 AM
Here’s how the teams would be placed by using the MHSAA formula. Also included district numbers where the teams are at in the districts based on their assignments.
North Farmington (24): The Raiders have not been themselves despite being locked as the top seed in their district. North Farmington has been up and down which un Coach Todd Negoshian like. Negoshian will get either Livonia Stevenson or Southfield Arts and Tech in the district semifinals which is very favorable. North Farmington is in a good spot to have a deep postseason run despite their recent struggles.
Ferndale (59): The Eagles have been up and down this season. They are locked as the two seed in the district behind Warren Lincoln. They would see either Detroit Osborn or Ferndale University in the district semifinals. Coach Juan Rickman knew before the season started was that they would have to go through the Abes if they wanted to defend the Division Two State crown. Rickman will have his hands full in this district.
West Bloomfield (25): This will not be an easy postseason for Coach Arnette Jordan and company. The Lakers are the two seed behind Orchard Lake St. Marys. West Bloomfield could see Walled Lake Central in the district semifinals pending if they don’t get upset by Walled Lake Western in the first round. It has been a really good season for Jordan and West Bloomfield. If the Lakers get by the Vikings which that would be most likely then they would see Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district finals. It’s going to be a tough ask for Jordan and company but they know they have to get by their neighbors to the north at some point during the season.
Adams (30): The Highlanders host the district but they are locked into the two seed in the district which is okay however there is an outside shot that they could get the top seed but it’s not likely at this point. They would play Romeo or Rochester on Wednesday in the district semifinals and then possibly Utica, Stoney Creek, or Utica Eisenhower in the district finals. I like where Coach Isiah Novak’s team is at in the district considering they host the district and have a very manageable path in the postseason.
Clarkston (28): The Wolves have been very inconsistent but have played a very tough schedule for Coach Tim Waslik. They are the A team in the district which means they would have to play Pontiac on Monday in the first round which is unheard of for Clarkston standards. It’s an interesting spot for the Wolves but it’s manageable considering the schedule they have played all season long.
Oak Park (23): The Knights have had an injury riddled season for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they could make up for it come in the postseason. They have an outside shot of being seeded but they are likely the A team in the district which means they would see Royal Oak in the first round and if they get by the Ravens they would have to play Groves in the district semifinals but there is an outside chance they could get the two seed pending what happens to Berkley which would be huge for Sheppard if they got the two seed. Oak Park hasn’t been healthy all season, we know what Sheppard’s team is capable of being when healthy. The Knights have a shot to win this district.
Groves (23): The Falcons host and are locked as the top seed in their district. Groves has survived the gauntlet in the Red under Coach Marc West along with a ton of injuries to their star players as well. The Falcons would see either Oak Park or Royal Oak in the district semifinals. If the Knights get healthy then that district semifinal game could be a doozy. Groves has a shot to do some great things and win the district crown but if they get a healthy Oak Park then that would be very interesting to see.
Troy (29): The Colts are locked into the two seed in their district which means they would play Troy Athens in the district semifinals. It’s always interesting to see a team play each other three times in the district which is the likely case between the Colts and the Red Hawks with the winner likely playing Birmingham Brother Rice in the district finals. Either way you’re playing Wednesday and that’s the bottom line. If they want to host the regional again you have to get past Birmingham Brother Rice, that’s the bottom line.
Harper Woods (58): The Pioneers are in a very interesting spot. If they keep winning, they would have the top seed along with hosting the district. If they are the second seed that’s all right as well. Coach TaJuan Porter’s team wouldn’t be playing until Wednesday in a district that doesn’t look that strong. Harper Woods has the two seed right now which means they wouldn’t have to play Detroit East English Village Prep in the district semifinal.They would see either Detroit Denby Tech or Eastpointe in the district semifinals instead. It’s a great spot for Porter and company.
Troy Athens (29): The Red Hawks are the C team in the postseason which means they would get Troy on Wednesday in the district semifinals on their home floor. If they get by the Colts then they would see Birmingham Brother Rice likely in the district finals. It’s a tough path but a great opportunity for Coach Dave Scott to go against your arch rival in the district semifinals.
Seaholm (29): The Maples are locked in as the A team which means they would play Bloomfield Hills on Monday in the first round. It would be the third time in three weeks these two teams have played each other. If they beat the Blackhawks they would see Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It will be a tough chore for interim coach Will Broner especially with everything that is affecting the Seaholm Boys Basketball program right now.
Lake Orion (28): The Dragons are locked in as the B team in the district which means they will play the hosts Waterford Kettering in the first round. If they get by the Captains then they would play Waterford Mott in the district semifinals which would be a very interesting matchup considering how tough the White has been this season. It’s a tough but a great opportunity for Coach Jose Andrades and Lake Orion to make some noise with a very young team who have been up and down this season.
Farmington (24): The Falcons took a huge hit with the loss to Warren Michigan Collegiate. The loss dropped Farmington out of the second seed to becoming the A team in the district. It also means that Coach Bryan Johnson’s team will play Redford Thurston in the first round on Monday. If they win that matchup then it sets up a game with Livonia Stevenson, the team that past Farmington in the district semifinals. The path just got a bit tougher now for Farmington.
Bloomfield Hills (29): The Blackhawks are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Seaholm on Monday with the winner getting Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals. It would be the third time in three weeks these two teams have played each other. It has been a rough year for Coach Brian Canfield and Bloomfield Hills but they have shown a ton of improvement. It should be very interesting if they do get the Warriors but they have the Maples first.
Southfield Arts and Tech (24): It has been a very tough season for Coach Terrance Porter and the Warriors. They are locked as the D team in the postseason which means they will play Livonia Franklin in the first round. If they win that game then they would see North Farmington in the district semifinals. It will be a very tough ask for Porter and Southfield Arts and Tech in the postseason.
Stoney Creek (30): It has been a very tough year for Coach Jeff Olind and the Cougars. The formula gave the Cougars no favors. They are the B team in the district which means they would play a very good Utica Eisenhower program in the first round. If they manage to win that game they would play Utica in the district semifinals. Whoever plays Utica, I like their chances considering the Chieftains haven’t really played the schedule that both Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower have despite Utica having a win over Utica Eisenhower during the season. If the Cougars can win over the Eagles and Chieftains which they are more than capable of doing then it’s anyone’s ball game in the district finals. Getting to the district finals would be a huge accomplishment for Stoney Creek.
Avondale (28): The Yellow Jackets are in a very interesting spot. Avondale will be the two seed in the district which means they won’t have to play until the district semifinals on Wednesday against Clarkston or Pontiac. The Yellow Jackets have been rolling under Coach Jaret Thomas but seeing Clarkston or Pontiac who has a win over Avondale this season is a real possibility. It’s a tough spot for Thomas knowing the likelihood of having to see the Wolves or the Phoenix in the postseason.
Oxford (27): The Wildcats are in a very tough spot. They are locked as the C team which means they will play Grand Blanc on Wednesday in the district semifinals in their building. The Bobcats have really improved and have played a really tough schedule. It has been a really good year for Coach Joe Fedorichik in his first year with Oxford. They have a shot if they play very well, it’s a tough chore and if they manage to upset the Bobcats then they would play either Davison or Holly in the district finals. It’s a tough ask for Fedorichik and the Wildcats in the postseason.
Rochester (30): The Falcons have a somewhat manageable first round matchup as the A team in the district. They would play Romeo which sets up a very interesting guard matchup between Max Mohl and Aiden Tague. Whoever wins gets Adams in the district semifinals. It will be very interesting to see how this goes but it’s a great first round but a tough district semifinal matchup for Coach Nick Evola and company.
Berkley (23): The Bears are locked into the two seed in their district which means they will see Warren Mott in the district semifinals. Berkley has had a strong year under Coach Joe Sermo but have had some road blocks along the way. The Bears have a much easier path to the district finals but it will be against either Oak Park and Groves in the district finals. It will be a tough district final but Sermo feels they this team has the chance to do it.
Pontiac (28): The Phoenix are going to have a really tough road in the postseason. They are the C team in the district which means they will see Clarkston in the first round. Coach Andrew Myers has done an outstanding job with the Phoenix in his first season. It’s going to be very tough for the Phoenix and especially for Myers having to face his former school in the first round of the postseason.
Royal Oak (23): The Ravens are locked as the B team in their district which means they would play Oak Park in the first round. Royal Oak has been up and down under Coach Aaron Smith. They are more than capable of playing spoiler to anyone who plays them. It will be a tall task for the Ravens in the postseason that is for sure.
Ferndale University (59): The Eagles have really struggled this season. They are locked in as the C team and would play Detroit Osborn in the first round. If they get by the Knights on Monday then a clash with Ferndale is very possible in the district semifinals. It will be very tough for Coach Josh Nicks and Ferndale University in the postseason.
Here is the MPR formula
https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2023-24/2023-24%20FINAL%20BBB.pdf
