Written Saturday January 18th at 9:13 AM

Here are the top 23.

Boys

1. Avondale 9-5: Yellow Jackets proving they belong in the Red.

2. Groves 10-3: Despite tough loss to Ferndale the Falcons will be fine.

3. Clarkston 11-3: It’s great to see the Wolves play at Clarkston Junior High.

4. Oxford 13-0: Wildcats struggled a bit against Troy Athens, tough matchups await them.

5. Lake Orion 9-5: Zack Parks is a machine, ask Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

6. North Farmington 6-7: Raiders need someone besides Rob Smith to step up.

7. Farmington 10-4: Falcons bounced back after two tough losses with a win over Oak Park.

8. Ferndale 6-9: Eagles climbing back after tough losses early.

9. Pontiac 7-5: Phoenix control their own destiny in the Blue.

10. Rochester 9-4: Wondering is Jake Tandy back???

11. West Bloomfield 5-8: Ah defense Lakers???

12. Stoney Creek 7-5: Cougars have been getting contributions from others lately.

13. Bloomfield Hills 8-5: Blackhawks seem to have figured some things out.

14. Troy 7-7: Congrats Mason Parker on 1,000 career points.

15. Adams 3-11: Have to admire the Highlanders heart and courage with what they went through.

16. Royal Oak 5-7: Ravens starting to get back to bad habits again.

17. Ferndale University 7-6: Eagles are a perfect Jekyll and Hyde team.

18. Troy Athens 3-10: Red Hawks have scored 53 points in two games, not good.

19. Seaholm 1-11: Maples are better than their record indicates, ask Troy.

20. Southfield Arts and Tech 4-10: Warriors got a much needed win against Wyoming Lee.

21. Oak Park 4-4: Knights are really struggling right now.

22. Berkley 3-10: Bears have really been struggling.

23. Harper Woods 3-8: Pioneers are really struggling right now.

 

Girls

1. Clarkston 8-5: Wolves showing their depth, why they could be tough to beat.

2. Avondale 8-2: Yellow Jackets have been humming recently.

3. Seaholm 9-2: Maples felt some adversity but have so far managed to overcome them.

4. West Bloomfield 6-5: Lakers starting to turn the corner.

5. Rochester 6-3: Congrats Alice Max on scoring 1,000 career points.

6. Stoney Creek 7-2: Cougars have been up and down recently.

7. Berkley 8-3: Bears have been looking really impressive.

8. Lake Orion 8-5: Dragons need someone besides Izzy Wotlinski to step up scoring wise.

9. Ferndale 4-7: Welcome to the Red, Eagles.

10. Oxford 3-8: Wildcats been building their depth despite tough losses.

11. Royal Oak 5-4: Ravens starting to turn things around since loss to Clarkston.

12. Adams 5-6: Horrible officiating doomed Highlanders in their loss to Harper Woods.

13. Southfield Arts and Tech 6-5: Defense is starting to turn around a little bit.

14. Ferndale University 6-4: Eagles are my most improved team this season.

15. Troy Athens 6-5: I can’t figure the Red Hawks out.

16. Troy 2-8: Colts have been struggling, they are better than their record indicates.

17. Bloomfield Hills 2-6: Blackhawks have had things rough lately.

18. Groves 2-8: Falcons need that third scorer especially in the interior to step up.

19. Pontiac 5-3: Phoenix have won three straight, building some confidence.

20. Harper Woods 5-3: Pioneers starting to turn things around a little bit.

21. North Farmington 3-8: Raiders still grinding despite rough stretch.

22. Farmington 3-8: Falcons have had some struggles recently.

23. Oak Park 0-4: Not playing in a week but still 38 points in four games is rough.

Written Tuesday January 14th at 8:30 AM

The Eagles have their new varsity football coach.

Ferndale named Donovan Jackson as their new coach. He takes over for Coach Erik Royal who stepped down in the offseason.

The move was confirmed by The D-Zone.

The Eagles lost a ton of senior leadership after making the postseason in Royal’s final season with the program. They lost in the first round to Groves.

Jackson is a Ferndale Alum, having graduated in 2012. According to Maxpreps, he was the running back and the corner back for the Eagles.

Jackson will have a big challenge ahead of him at Ferndale, replacing a ton of talent and building program strength. It will be very interesting to see what Jackson brings to the Eagles. Also there has to be a transition period and it has to happen during the season.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

The tweet from The D-Zone

https://x.com/TheD_Zone/status/1878833678975123492

Written Tuesday June 11th at 12:20 AM

Updated Sunday January 12th at 10:54 AM

This article will be updated very often with the most updated information.

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Livonia Stevenson, 3. Livonia Franklin, 4. Redford Thurston, 5. Farmington.

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

DARKHORSE: Livonia Franklin

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aizlyn Albanese- Farmington Hills Mercy.

INSIGHT: This looks to be a very interesting district. Farmington could get some big points being the favorite in the Gold but they have some questions coming into this district. The Falcons have Edimari King, Alexis Gebs, Emma Mohr, Anna Toranchuk, Grace Lamott, Gaia Demeester, Mya Jones, Sydney Nogas, and Kate Martin coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Farmington Hills Mercy had a very young group from last season that won 12 games and was competitive with West Bloomfield for a half before falling 68-39 to the Lakers in the district finals. The Marlins have Aizlyn Albanese, Kate Samulak, Emily Walker, Caroline Paluk, Emily Cuthbertson, Naimah Kellum, Jessica Heath, Abby Bores, Elle Geerlings, Avery Birkett, and Nora Gerzema coming back for Coach Gary Morris. Livonia Stevenson won 13 games last season. They have a new coach in Alison Hidey. Hidey came from Groves this offseason. The Spartans have Isabella Claramont, Carly Piergentili, Samantha McCloud, Hailey Gordon, Lauren Olson, Kennedy Hinkle, Madison Lowrly, Gabby Yancura, Isabella Sapia, Hannah Tamou and Ella Stoops coming back for Hidey. Livonia Franklin was really young last season. The Patriots have Tessa White, Kingsley Nordbeck, Sammy Carignan, Sydney Kenyon, Calie Bates, Aubree Ostrokie, Breann Campbell, and Summer Montgomery coming back for Coach Colleen Flaherty. Redford Thurston has a new girls basketball coach in Princess Scott taking over the program. Scott was an assistant and moves up to be the new coach. This district looks like it will be the Marlins to lose.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Overall I don’t really see any changes to the top three seeds. Livonia Franklin trails Redford Thurston at the moment but I don’t see that will last, I still have the Patriots as the three seed. Farmington is locked in as the five seed despite being one of the favorites in the Gold. This is still Farmington Hills Mercy’s district to lose.

 

District 23 @ Detroit Renaissance

OAK PARK

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Hamtramck

Warren Fitzgerald

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Detroit Mumford, 3. Hamtramck, 4. Warren Fitzgerald, 5. Oak Park.

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Detroit Mumford

DARKHORSE: Hamtramck

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ceniyah Williams- Detroit Mumford.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Detroit. Oak Park was really young last season. The Knights have Mackenzie Blake, Madison Johnson-Williams, Sienna Walker, and Gabrielle Lee coming back for Coach Tyler Washington.Warren Fitzgerald won 21 games last season. They made the move to Division One with an increase in school enrollment. The Spartans have Lyric Pannel, Meghan Diles, Kaylunn Millander, Asia Bowman, Amani Thomas, Shavon Williams, Casundra Smith, Iyanna Smith, Sabrina Watson, and Taylor McCants coming back for Coach Juwan Shakespear. Detroit Mumford won five games despite having a really tough schedule last season. The Mustangs have Ceniyah Williams and Cherish Jefferson coming back for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance had a strong season but fell to West Bloomfield in the regional semifinals last season and will look to have a bounce back year this season. The Phoenix have Alehia Wade, Aryana Denham, Victorya Gambles, Aarion Vinson, Jaebrian Autry, Marhea Bradshaw, and Imani Johnson coming back for Coach DaShaun Wood. Hamtramck had a really rough year winning one game for Coach Courtney Jackson, this district could be worse for the Cosmos this season. Detroit Renaissance looks to be the favorite in this district but Detroit Mumford and Warren Fitzgerald could have strong says.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Based on the MPR rankings, they were really surprising when I seen this district. I’ve been really impressed with Hamtramck winning nine games and getting a ton of confidence so they moved up two spots to the three seed. I also moved Warren Fitzgerald to the four seed with their recent struggles which means Detroit Mumford moves to the two seed despite not playing a ton of games. Oak Park is locked into the five seed. Overall no one in this district is beating Detroit Renaissance.

 

 

District 24 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

NORTH FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Marian

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Seaholm, 2. Birmingham Marian, 3. Bloomfield Hills, 4. Southfield Arts and Tech, 5. Groves, 6. North Farmington.

FAVORITE: Seaholm

NEXT: Birmingham Marian

DARKHORSE: Bloomfield Hills

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ella Swanson- Birmingham Marian.

INSIGHT: This is a very interesting district in Birmingham. Birmingham Marian had a tough district with West Bloomfield and Farmington Hills Mercy last season. The Mustangs have McKenley Reid, Ella Swanson, Lauren Billingsley, Katelyn Morgan, Danielle Denha, CeCe Murray, Molly McLeod, Charlie Bingham, and Ruby Jansen coming back for new coach Shane Lawal. Lawal brings a ton of basketball experience to Birmingham Marian including being the coach at Detroit Renaissance. Seaholm has a ton of proven experience after getting to the district finals last season. The Maples have Addy Flynn, Mary Gumbus, Taylor Hartwig, Emma Weber, Sophie Sullivan, Ella Koosis, Addy Kitzman, Jada Josifovski, and Elia Gifford coming back for Coach Chris Manchester. Groves was up and down last season. They has a new coach and a new system heading into the season. The Falcons have Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Rose Strada, Sophie Schwanik, and Micah Smith coming back for new Coach Jessica Duleba. Bloomfield Hills won the district crown last season. The Blackhawks have Brianna Young, Brianna Brooks, and Giselle Haddad coming back for new coach Renardo Brown. North Farmington was very young last season. The Raiders have Jade Spears, Quyaamah Jihad, Shylah Tarin, and Shalaya Rogers coming back for Coach Michael Allin. Southfield Arts and Tech is a team that likes to run and score in bunches, defense is a concern for the Warriors which could be key for a postseason run. The Warriors have Christian Banks, Samiya Ashford, and Jordyn Ushery coming back for Coach Shaquita Coltrane. Overall this district is very interesting, Birmingham Marian is the slight favorite but keep a close eye on Seaholm and Southfield Arts and Tech. They both could make some noise in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some big changes to this district. I’m a believer of Seaholm thus moving them to the one line is right at the moment but don’t count out Birmingham Marian despite their record and being fourth in the MPR which I don’t really understand, the Mustangs are more than capable of winning this district, I kept them at the two spot at the moment. Bloomfield Hills moves to the darkhorse spot but they need to be careful of Southfield Arts and Tech who I still have questions about. I seen Groves play and they look to be a five seed despite being fourth right now, there are warning signs surrounding the Falcons. North Farmington is locked into the sixth seed but they could have an outside shot of catching Groves. Overall the projected seedings look pretty accurate for now.

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

Lakeland

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. West Bloomfield, 3. Walled Lake Northern, 4. Lakeland, 5. Walled Lake Central.

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Northern

PLAYER ON SPOT: Amal Younes- Walled Lake Northern.

INSIGHT:  This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top. West Bloomfield is the defending Division One State Champs but they lost a ton of talent from that team but they are poised not to give up their crown. The Lakers have Ava Lord, Sheridan Beal, Breanna Gamble-Jones, Breasia Gamble-Jones, Jordyn Ratliff, Jaylee Head, and London Hall coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Walled Lake Northern was up and down last season. The Knights have Amal Younes, Macie Hunter, Brooklyn Zeleny, Adisa Dibra, Skyler Sweet, Eden Van Proeyen, Savannah Scott, Sarah Maktari, and Layne Biggers coming back for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was experienced last season. The Vikings have Demi’a Higginbottom and Lillian Miracle coming back for Coach Ken Nelson. Lakeland has Alena Tiernan, Aubrin Miller, Kalie Rhines, Brynn Taliercio, Jessie Liker, Kennedy Canterbury, Molly Farquhar, Leah Willis, and Peyton Baer coming back for Coach Mike Leitheim. Orchard Lake St. Marys comes up to Division One after being in Division Two. They fell 60-57 to Warren Regina in the regional semifinals last season. The Eaglets are loaded with proven talent in Mia Moss, Stella Poota, Layla Stewart, Allie Crighton, Ava Ignoglia, Jessica Asmussen, Hope Richer, Brooke Shockey, Nicole Kolwich, and Reese Holton coming back for former Stoney Creek girls and Adams boys Coach Brad Crighton. This could be the makings of a classic district at the black top in West Bloomfield.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Looking at the MPR rankings these look to be the most sense. Despite West Bloomfield’s struggles they have the two seed but they have an outside shot to get the top seed. The Lakers need to be careful of Walled Lake Northern who is right behind them. The Knights have played really well and is riding with confidence, if they keep winning they could jump to the top line. Lakeland and Walled Lake Central are both locked into the four and five spots respectably. Overall I don’t see any changes.

District 26 @ Swartz Creek

OXFORD

Davison

Lapeer

Grand Blanc

Holly

Swartz Creek

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford, 3. Davison, 4. Lapeer, 5. Holly, 6. Swartz Creek.

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Alison Hufstedler- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district between Genesee County, Lapeer County, and Oxford. The Wildcats have Alison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Mia Champagne, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Jaylen Jacobsen, Katelyn Brockway, and Claire Bruski coming back for new Coach Trevor Marshall. Marshall is the Wildcats fourth coach in six months. Swartz Creek won 10 games last season and have home court this season. The Dragons have Raeleigh Genoveski, Peyton Camper, Missy Bales, Maddie Pier, Aja Collins, Tatlot Gullett, and Brooklyn Short coming back for Coach Brian Van Buren. Holly really struggled last season. The Bronchos have Ella Azbell, Evelin Spiece, and Adlin Moore coming back for Coach Ben Varner. Davison really struggled winning four games last season. The Cardinals have Mayae Carradine, Gracie Wright, Lilah Pierson, Sammie Beller, Brooklyn Hughson, Brooke Pizzala, Darby Crystal and Savannah Rice coming back for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. Lapeer really struggled winning three games last season. The Lightning have Madison White coming back for their new coach Joseph LoBaido. Grand Blanc went to the Division One State Finals last season. The Bobcats have Parc Liggins, Daya Hartwick, Paige Pittman, Joslyn Lopez, Malaya Brown, and Jordyn Eichelberger coming back for Coach Bob Taylor. The Bobcats stand as the early favorite but the Wildcats have the firepower to match it.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don’t see really any changes but Oxford better be careful of Davison for that second line. The Cardinals have been an up and down team after a strong start to the season. The Wildcats have played a tough non conference and they are about to go into the Red which I think they will be fine there. If Davison beats Grand Blanc they could pass Oxford in the MPR but I don’t see that happening. Lapeer, Holly, and Swartz Creek are locked into the fourth, fifth, and sixth seeds respectably with no one touching the Bobcats for the top seed.

 

District 27 @ Clarkston

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Clarkston, 2. Lake Orion, 3. Avondale, 4. Waterford.

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: Charlotte Peplowski-Lake Orion.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district that could be very similar to last season’s classic district final between Clarkston and Lake Orion. The Wolves won 41-40 on a buzzer beating layup by Emily Valencia. The Dragons and Wolves are in the Red and both have very tough schedules this season. Avondale was in a different district and had a ton of injuries which was the reason why their struggles last season. They are in the Blue and could be a really dangerous team in the division this season. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Morgan McPherson, Amaria Daniel, Khaila Bradley, Giavanni Hollie-Jackson, Sasha McClellan, and Janaye Richardson coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Clarkston is coming off a district crown but have that bad taste falling 44-42 to Grand Blanc in the regional finals last season. The Wolves have the majority of their team in Brooklyn Covert, Elliana Robak, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Ellery Hernandez, Kayla Butki, Lauren Fishtaller, Keira Zorski,and Lexi Fry coming back but incoming players in Brooke Bond and Bella Flavin could be players to watch for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Lake Orion has been very consistent even when they had a down year winning 15 games last season. They were a very young team and has a bad taste in their mouths after falling 41-40 in the district finals to Clarkston last season. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Charlotte Peplowski, Riley House, and Dani Heck coming back but newcomers Kara Veeder. and Lala Hill are be players to watch for Coach Bob Brydges. I’ve been hearing a lot of rumblings several players who did not play in the summer are back in the fold for Brydges. Waterford Mott and Waterford Kettering were both up and down last season. They combined their girls basketball teams and became Waterford after not having enough players. The new Waterford team will have Payton Smith, Morgan Tassin, Trevino Marissa, Kate Saunders, Natalia Santia, Ahyma Gulley, Juilanna Lemis, and Isabella Badger coming back from Waterford Mott and they have JaNella Barber, Summer Blaine, Ellie Droops, Peyton Eakin, Sophie Munro, Kylee Nickerson, and Ella McCall coming back from Waterford Kettering. They have a new coach in Alyssa Copley taking over the new Waterford team. This district could have the makings of last season but the Yellow Jackets are a likely dangerous third seed. Clarkston is the early favorite but Lake Orion has won a district crown at Clarkston before and is always a threat.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I honestly don’t see any changes although Avondale maybe up at arms when I say this. The Yellow Jackets leads the MPR and has a win against Lake Orion but with the Red schedule coming up for the Dragons and Wolves that could eat into Avondale’s advantage in the MPR despite being in the Blue. Clarkston has played a tough schedule and that record looks very deceiving. Lake Orion has gotten a few players back from that Avondale game and has a win over Plymouth Canton which is their best win at the moment. Waterford has really improved but they would have a really tough time against the three mentioned teams. Overall I don’t see any changes when it comes to projected seeds and darkhorses.

 

District 28 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

Utica

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Utica Eisenhower, 2. Stoney Creek, 3. Rochester, 4. Adams, 5. Romeo, 6. Utica.

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Stoney Creek

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Devyn Raymond- Utica Eisenhower.

INSIGHT: This is almost the same district as last season but it’s at the same gym. Utica comes into this district after being in a different district last season. They really struggled winning nine games last season. The Chieftains have Katelyn Shtogrin, Kylie Condon, Brianna LeMersie, Brooklyn LeMerise, Violet Smith, and Alexis Petruccioli coming back for Coach Jason Muchortow. Muchortow took over at Utica for legendary coach Tom McDonald who retired two years ago. Stoney Creek made history by getting to the State Quarterfinals winning this district. They had to get by Bloomfield Hills and Macomb Dakota in the regionals but fell 49-27 to Grand Blanc last season. The Cougars have Merrick Schlawbach, Izzy Ivezaj, Calista Ivezaj, Abigail Ivezaj, Mikayla Gendich, Addy Allen, Samantha Fulkerson, Taylor Fulkerson, Sophie Budzick, Jadelynn Freeman, and Jenna Cook coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Romeo had a great year winning 16 games and is a program on the rise. The Bulldogs have Claire Carmody, Layla Babich, Maya Mosley, Mya Muschong, Samantha Sackfield, and Anna Wesley coming back for Coach Ron LeBlanc. Romeo fell 37-29 to Rochester last season in the district semifinals. Rochester will look to have a bounce back season after a rough year last season. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Arisara MacDonald, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back for new coach Andrew Topie. Utica Eisenhower was very young winning 10 games last season. The Eagles have Gabriella Gojcaj, Lily Pantaleo, Paige Hays, Devyn Raymond, and Tesla Bertoia coming back along with an influx of incoming freshmen led by the Turner twins (Mackenzie and Janielle) for new Coach Madison Ritovski. Utica Eisenhower fell 53-50 to Adams in overtime last season. Adams is hoping to use the postseason from last season as a stepping stone to this season. The Highlanders have Faith Zoldus, Neveah Williams, and Lily Tomahauk coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. This should be a very interesting district to watch that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made a few changes to this district, the MPR has Stoney Creek ahead of Utica Eisenhower but I think the Eagles will pass the Cougars based on strength of schedule. I have Stoney Creek locked into the two seed and they could be a really high two seed. Rochester looks locked into the three seed after a big win over Lake Orion. Adams is a very dangerous four seed and they haven’t been healthy with the injury to Faith Zoldus but the Highlanders have earned the nickname “The most dangerous team in the league” they are more than capable and I moved them to the four seed. Utica is locked into the six seed and Romeo is locked into the five seed. Overall I see four maybe five teams having a shot to win this district.

 

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Berkley, 2. Troy, 3. Royal Oak, 4. Troy Athens, 5. Warren Mott.

FAVORITE: Berkley

NEXT: Troy

DARKHORSE: Royal Oak

PLAYER ON SPOT: Maci Zeiter- Troy.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on Lexington Blvd. Troy is coming off a strong year winning 14 games but they fell 64-46 to Bloomfield Hills in the district semifinals last season. The Colts have Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Carly Higginbottom, Olivia Sprangler, Sophia Kaltsounis, Kelsey Block, Aly Matuza, Savannah Oddy, Victoria Siegan, Shavani Angadi, Brianna Bert, and Lizzie Dobbs coming back along with Maci Zeiter coming into the program for Coach Laura Guzman. Troy Athens had a rough year winning nine games last season. The Red Hawks have Yasmeen Dabbish, Alex Link, Katrina Tasich, and Farida Youseff coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Royal Oak has home court and is coming off a ton of momentum making their regional finals last season. The Ravens have Lucy Freytag, Lydia Dickens, Hannah Saunders, Jordan Hills, Vivian Lawrence, and Maddie Lawrence coming back along with an incoming varsity player in Kolbie Roelofs for Coach Brian Sopota. Berkley has been up and coming. They won 19 games and made the district finals falling to Detroit Renaissance 60-29 last season. The Bears have Avery Wintergarden, Maddie Boswall, Katelyn Sills, Nadia Watt, Hailey Kirkwood, Blessing Nweke, Caleigh Tracy, Olivia Church, and Z Diop coming back for Coach Clay Shaver. Warren Mott won nine games last season. The Marauders have Leajah Ferguson, Niah Sims, Aubrie Vojnov, Alyssa Sikorski, Allison Phillips, Conamora Ndana, Addison Brown, Sophie Simon, and Ella Schmidt coming back for Coach Patrick Schmidt. The Colts are favored in this district but the Ravens could have a strong say but watch for the Bears as well.

DISTRICT UPDATE: The MPR looks really different when it looks at this district. I’m a fan of the Bears and I believe in what they are doing. Berkley has done a ton of things right and they have been making a ton of noise. Troy Athens is the second seed in the MPR but I feel they should be the four seed just seeing them on film. The Red Hawks are a team that hasn’t been the most consistent and any loss could hurt them. I’m still a believer on Troy despite their recent struggles and they have a loss to Troy Athens, they can turn things around and fast but time is running out. Royal Oak has struggled falling to the third seed but I feel they can also turn things around and quick. Warren Mott is locked into the five seed. Overall this district looks like it’s the Bears to lose but don’t sleep on the Colts or the Ravens by a long shot.

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Center Line

Hazel Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Ferndale, 2. Ferndale University, 3. Center Line, 4. Hazel Park, 5. Madison Heights Lamphere.

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Ferndale University

DARKHORSE: Center Line

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aaliyah Frost- Ferndale.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district with both Ferndale schools not having to see Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the districts like they did last season. Ferndale University had a rough season going winless with a very young team last season. The Eagles have LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson coming back for new coach Bennie Szczepkowski. Ferndale has completely revamped their team in two years and is in the Red this season after winning 17 games last season. The Eagles have Aaliyah Frost, Inaya Davis, Demi Bolton, Janiya Larry, Masiah Clark, Kathleen DeVillena, and Keyanna McGarrell coming back along with emerging talents in Zahra Richardson, Janielle Turner, McKenzie Turner, Malia Taylor, Kassidy Cain, and Zayria McCrary for Coach Keith Paris. They also added Kamaria Paige who transferred from Southfield Arts and Tech and Gabby Foster from Macomb Dakota this offseason. Hazel Park had a really rough year last season. They have two seniors and several sophomores coming back for Coach Anthony Brown. Center Line really struggled last season. The Panthers have Janiyah Thomas, Sydney Zosel, Jordyn Alexander, Savannah Rietz, Carlie Farkas, Reyonna Jackson, Jaylah Roper, Kaylee Lindsay, and Audrey Harenski coming back for Coach Josh Banks. Madison Heights Lamphere won 13 games last season. The Rams have Faithlynn Donegan, Taylor Dufrense, Emile Eritano, Mya Giffin, Harmony Hays, Emma Malkowski, Sophia Muskery, Faith Stinson, and Jordan Terbruggen coming back for a new coach. The Eagles are the early favorite but the Rams have the experience to make some noise, this could be Paris time to make some noise.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some big changes following the MPR. I have to give Ferndale University coach Bennie Szczepkowski a ton of credit for turning around a program that went winless last season and has a winning record. The Eagles are locked into the two seed with how Center Line, Hazel Park, and Madison Heights Lamphere have played this season. I don’t think any of these teams including Ferndale University will touch Ferndale despite their non conference and they have to play in the Red. The Red will harden them and I have my concerns surrounding the Eagles as it’s been documented in my podcast but not in this district as Ferndale is locked into the top spot in the district.

 

District 61 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Regina

Eastpointe

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Warren Regina, 2. St. Clair Shores South Lake, 3. Harper Woods, 4. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 5. Eastpointe.

FAVORITE: Warren Regina

NEXT: St. Clair Shores South Lake

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods

PLAYER ON SPOT: Sami Thomas- Warren Regina.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Harper Woods has been up and down as of late where they won 10 games last season. The Pioneers have Amari Hutchinson and Laniyah West coming back for Coach LaToya Tate. Harper Woods should have some challengers in this district. Eastpointe won 12 games last season for Coach Deon Woods. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 15 games last season. The Cavaliers have a ton of proven experience including Dania McClain coming back for Coach Wilbur Jones. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 10 games last season. The Eagles have Brooklyn Houston, Miyonna Sims, Alzion Williams, and D’Asia McIntyre coming back for Coach Rakeem Beal. Warren Regina comes into this district after winning 13 games in a really difficult Catholic League last season. The Satellites have some proven experience in Sami Thomas, Emerson Holder, Ella Sikorski and Sara Wilking coming back for Coach Joe Charette. The Pioneers are the defending district champs and look to defend their crown but the Satellites will have a strong say that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some changes following the MPR for this district. I’m really impressed with St. Clair Shores South Lake toughing up their non conference schedule which is why they are in the two line. I noticed Harper Woods Chandler Park is struggling so moved them to the four line and is locked right now. Eastpointe is locked into the five seed. Harper Woods hasn’t played in a few weeks, I have the Pioneers as the three seed. Warren Regina is the top seed and looks like they will be. Overall I think two teams have a shot at this district.

District 62 @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 3. Macomb Lutheran North, 4. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 5. Pontiac.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

DARKHORSE: Macomb Lutheran North

PLAYER ON SPOT: CeCe Arico- Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district on Giddings Road in Pontiac. Pontiac didn’t have the numbers to field a team in the postseason despite their major improvement last season. The Phoenix should be much improved for Coach Christopher Wright. Macomb Lutheran North has Claire Leinberger, Kaylee Ward, Alaina Chandler, Leighton Gardner, Lauren Dean, Sydnee Davis, Grace Tobey, Aubrey Thumm, and Morgan Nyboer coming back for Coach Andrea Tiedt. Waterford Oakdale Prep is a new school that just started competition. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood won 16 games last season and is loaded with proven experience. The Cranes have Haadiya Khan, Maeve Alexander, Madeline Day, Sienna Laverde, Brooke Brown, Dalia Reisner, Trinity Dougherty, Alyssa Luo, Catherine Vaz, and Bella Miceli coming back for Coach Micaela Ellis. Birmingham Detroit Country Day is loaded with proven talent after falling 59-57 in a buzzer beating heartbreaker to Detroit Edison in the regional final last season. The Yellow Jackets have Naiya Krispin, Cece Arico, Jayla Jackson, Sanyiah Blackwell, Ariyanna Wiggins, and Alina Younes coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has been solid year in and year out. The Fighting Irish have Sarah Okka, Nikki Voto, Kaylyn Sowers, Ellie Whalen, Adriana Lorenz coming back for Coach Tom Kocik. The Yellow Jackets is the favorite to win this district but keep a close eye on the Cranes in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I looked at the MPR and went with it. Waterford Oakdale Prep is no longer in this district so it’s a five team district. I moved Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to the two line and Macomb Lutheran North to the three line. I’ve been disappointed with Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood with their recent struggles so dropped them to the four seed. Pontiac is the five seed but if they can start winning games they could make a move up the seeds. Overall no one is touching Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

MHSAA Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Basketball/2025-Districts

Written Tuesday June 11th at 1:45 AM

Updated Sunday January 12th at 9:41 AM

These are the districts, they will be updated with the most updated information.

District 22 @ Livonia Franklin

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. North Farmington, 2. Farmington, 3. Redford Thurston, 4. Livonia Stevenson, 5. Livonia Churchill, 6. Livonia Franklin.

FAVORITE: North Farmington

NEXT: Farmington

DARKHORSE: Redford Thurston

PLAYER ON SPOT: Avi Melster- North Farmington.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. North Farmington was in the Division One State Finals falling to Orchard Lake St. Marys last season. The Raiders have Avi Melster, Will MacShara, Rob Smith, and DJ Morgan coming back for Coach Todd Negoshian. Livonia Churchill had a really rough year going winless last season. The Patriots have Andrew Creedon, Emmanuel Williams, Diego Cantu, Levi Florence, Alex Mood, Max Shewesing, Jamari White, and Myles Boone coming back for new coach Cameron Scott. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of proven experience in Tyler Hall, Jackson Stoops, Isiah Iacoben, Joe Berry, Jack Woods, Antonio Aiaz, Jonah Waligora, and Iyran Altrack coming back for new Coach John Mackson. Livonia Franklin really struggled in league despite winning 11 games last season. The Patriots have Owen Pittenger, Mendale Broaden, Mark Kiss, Dominic Goines, Kam Webster, Jacob Looish, Thomas Wiwigash, Kameron Dale, and Andrew Mullins coming back for Coach TJ Hurley. Redford Thurston won 14 games last season. The Eagles have Daniel Winston, Nicholas Warren, and Tyler Floyd coming back for new coach Michael Allie. Farmington will look to have a bounce back season after injuries really derailed their season. The Falcons have Darnell Cochrane and Randy Rice coming back for Coach Byron Johnson but they took a hit with the loss of Greg Grays. Grays transferred to Birmingham Brother Rice this offseason. This district should be very interesting to see what happens.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Looking at the MPR, it’s kind of messy at the moment. I think that North Farmington and Farmington will get the top two seeds but Redford Thurston and Livonia Stevenson have the top seeds at the moment but that could change as the season goes along. Livonia Churchill is also high as well when it comes to seeding. Livonia Franklin looks to be on the outside looking in. It’s a tough district record wise. I moved Farmington to the two line and put them in the darkhorse column. I don’t see how Redford Thurston and Livonia Stevenson keeping up this kind of pace. I think the Falcons and Raiders schedule should help despite North Farmington’s recent struggles.

District 24 @ Groves

GROVES

SEAHOLM

OAK PARK

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Brother Rice

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Brother Rice, 2. Groves, 3. Bloomfield Hills, 4. Oak Park, 5. Seaholm, 6. Southfield Arts and Tech.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

DARKHORSE: Bloomfield Hills

PLAYER ON SPOT: Greg Grays- Birmingham Brother Rice.

INSIGHT: This should be a very competitive district in Beverly Hills. Groves is loaded with proven experience. The Falcons have Jon Simpson, Josh Gibson, Paul Hubbard, Landon McKinney, and David Jones coming back for Coach Marc West. Oak Park has a ton of experience after a tough loss to Groves last season. The Knights have Jason Harris coming back for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they took a hit with their top player Geon Hutchins transferring to Warren Lincoln. Seaholm has a new system and a younger team. The Maples have Everett Wertz, Will Solderwall, Charlie Gorycia, and Cole Baldwin coming back for new coach Spenser Adams. Southfield Arts and Tech will look to have a bounce back after struggling in the White last season. The Warriors have Cameron Dickerson and Trent Green coming back for Coach Terrance Porter. Bloomfield Hills is an up and coming team and is one of those teams that could make noise in the Blue. The Blackhawks have D’Ron Mason, Philip Muhammad, Carter Hartfield, Mason Hitchcock, and Carter Canfield coming back along with an up and coming player in Brandon Bies for Coach Brian Canfield. Birmingham Brother Rice had a really strong postseason run last season. The Warriors have David Williams, Jacob Lamb, Jeremiah Caffey, John Lilley, Logan Hahama, and Trevor Smith coming back. They added Greg Grays who transferred from Farmington along with Landon Ecckles, and Sebastian Thrower who transferred from Louisiana for Coach Ricky Palmer. This district looks like it’s Birmingham Brother Rice’s district to lose but you never know.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don’t see really any changes with this district. I think the only change will be Southfield Arts and Tech and Seaholm but Oak Park better be careful that they don’t fall to the five or six seed. The top three teams are locked into their seeds at the moment with Bloomfield Hills entering the darkhorse column.

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Lakeland

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. West Bloomfield, 3. Walled Lake Central, 4. Lakeland, 5. Walled Lake Northern.

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Central

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jayden Savoury- Orchard Lake St. Marys.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top at West Bloomfield. The defending Division One State Champs are in this district and they are loaded again. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven talent and had a really strong year last season. The Lakers have De’Avion Thomas, Corey Pittman, Brendin Jones, Artis Hicks, Terrance Lowe, Ryan Hood, David Lewis, Jamad Williams, and Chris Britton coming back for Coach Arnette Jordan. Walled Lake Central had a very strong year last season. The Vikings have Frank Knolton, Giovanni Charles, Anthony Camacho, Asa Clay, Garrod Alexander, Preston Dado, Zakira Jallow, Peyton Kassab, and Jake Nellett coming back for Coach Chuck Splonky. Walled Lake Northern was down last season and will look to have a bounce back year this season. The Knights have Ryne Socha, Eli Ryan, Stone Seyburn, Jack Cooper, Michael Hatcher, Tim Awad, Andy Avitia, and Gavin Delaney coming back for Coach Ryan Negoshian. Lakeland will look to have a bounce back year. The Eagles have Nskian Usen, Cole Bromley, Walker Lewinski, Hayden Cross, Nathan Bronka, and Chandler Good coming back for Coach Rob Thompson. Orchard Lake St. Marys is the defending Division One State Champs and they are loaded again this season. The Eaglets have Geon Sheets, Sharod Barnes, Trey McKinney, Isiah Hines, Jayden Savoury, Peyton Kemp, and Aiden Hanks coming back for Coach Todd Covert. Overall this should be a very interesting district, the Eaglets are the favorite but can’t count out the Lakers by a long shot.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don’t really see any changes into this district maybe switching Walled Lake Northern and Lakeland but that is interchangeable at the moment. No changes made at this time as this could be the likely seeds in the district.

 

District 26 @ Lapeer

OXFORD

Lapeer

Davison

Grand Blanc

Swartz Creek

Holly

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford, 3. Davison, 4. Swartz Creek, 5. Lapeer, 6. Holly.

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Luke Stoffan- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in Lapeer. Grand Blanc had a deep postseason run where they went to the regional finals falling 65-40 to Orchard Lake St. Marys. The Bobcats have Donnie Huddleson, Isiah McCree, Larryeon Subblett, Malachi Evans, Matthew Evans, Omar Young, Caseton Sendry, Angelo Diedalis, Georgeyon Cannon, and Lawrence Walker coming back along with newcomer Max O’Mara for Coach Dorence Martin. Davison won 17 games but was upset 48-47 by Holly in the district semifinals last season. The Cardinals have Cortez Porter and Jackson Bowden coming back for Coach Mike Williams but they took a huge losses when Danny Wolak (Flint Powers) Amari Blythe and Greg Lawson transferred out of Davison to play at prep schools. Lapeer really struggled last season and will have a new coach. The Lightning have Will Fisher coming back for new coach Jack Chittle. Chittle comes from North Branch but he’s very familiar with Lapeer as he was the junior varsity football and baseball coach with the Lightning. Holly has had a ton of success as of late despite losing a ton of talent last season. They upset Davison 48-47 in the district semifinals before falling to Grand Blanc last season. The Bronchos have Bowen Moore and Xander Jacobsen coming back for Coach Steve DeHart. Swartz Creek has been up and down after winning six games last season. The Dragons have Ian Johnson, Boston Koebke, Carson Wistuba, William Gray, Isiah Spencer, Alex Miller, Braylin Stell, and King Powell coming back for Coach Kevin Root. Oxford looks to have a very strong showing this postseason after winning 14 games last season. The Wildcats have a ton of proven experience in Jake Champagne, Drew Cady, Nolan Mauser, Brennan Elling, Jonah Lundeberg, and Luke Stoffan coming back for Coach Joe Fedorchik. This should be a very interesting district to say the least, four teams have a shot to win this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I’m surprised Oxford has a strangle hold on the top seed in this district MPR wise despite Grand Blanc playing a more brutal schedule. Eventually I see Grand Blanc taking the top spot in the district. I’m surprised Davison is still high despite their struggles and Swartz Creek has a lower MPR than Grand Blanc or Davison. Overall I don’t see any changes when it comes to seeding but the Bobcats could jump the Wildcats based on strength of schedule despite the unbeaten record.

 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Clarkston, 2. Waterford Mott, 3. Avondale, 4. Lake Orion, 5. Waterford Kettering.

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Waterford Mott

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: JaKobe Manyweathers- Waterford Mott.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season when Clarkston won the district over Waterford Mott. It wouldn’t surprise anyone if a team wins 16 games and is the four seed in this district, it is that loaded. Clarkston was around 500 last season and they are the early favorite in this “Group of Death” district. The Wolves have Hayden Flavin, Cole Charter, Jon Kaul, Doug Schoenfield, Hayden Barrow, Caleb Harmon, Alex Waszczenko, Braylen Weeks, and Quinn Rosenburg coming back along with Shane Dasuqi, Troy Rosenburg coming in and Ace Walters transferred from Birmingham Brother Rice for Coach Tim Waslik. Avondale has had their battles with Clarkston in the past including a 38-37 loss to the Wolves last season and they both are in the Red this season. The Yellow Jackets have Jordan Bush, Jordan Clayton, DJ Moody, Makao Carroll, Isaac Gordon, Javontae Anderson, Braylin Grandberry, Karri Fields, Qualaeb Ross, and Justin Greer-Sykes coming back. They added Jakobe Louris who transferred from Lake Orion this offseason for Coach Jaret Thomas. Waterford Kettering really struggled last season. The Captains have Jordan Jarrell, Nathan Bisnett, Hunter Jager, Trevor Meredith, Hayden Bigelow, Braycen Harrington, Cole Hendin, and Gavin Robinette coming back for Coach Steve Emert. Waterford Mott made it to the district finals and shared the Lakes Valley Crown with Walled Lake Central last season. They could be the favorite in the Lakes Valley this season. The Corsairs have Gavin Ort, Israel Anthony, JaKobe Manyweathers, Damari Stephens, Greg White, Tory Robinson, Nate Lewis, Devin Lewis, and Austin Sheets coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson however the Corsairs took a big hit with a season ending injury to Max Jansenvanvuren who got hurt in football. Lake Orion was very young last season and look to have a strong bounce back year this season as one of the favorites in the White. The Dragons have Zack Parks, Ryan Rocheleau, Gabe Scott, Nick Galben, Jackson Shoskey, Nate Guccione, Steven Butcher, Joey Neering, and Max Neering coming back for Coach Jose Andrades. This should be a fun district, four teams have a great chance to win this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: There are some changes in this district when it comes to the MPR rankings but the messaging remains the same. I took Lake Orion out of the darkhorse column for the moment but they could easily get back into the darkhorse line and maybe go up even higher. Avondale made a statement with a win at Clarkston after a fourth quarter explosion, they also have a win over Groves as well. With those two wins I put them in the darkhorse line which is the three seed. Waterford Mott has played well which included a big time win over Grand Blanc which I kept them in the second seed. Lake Orion has battled a ton of injuries but have seemed to put things together. Clarkston will be the team to watch after a tough loss to Avondale. Waterford Kettering has made a ton of progress. I think Clarkston is barely the favorite but Avondale, Waterford Mott, and Lake Orion are looming and are more than capable of winning this district.

 

District 28 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

Utica

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Adams, 2. Rochester, 3. Stoney Creek, 4. Utica Eisenhower, 5. Utica, 6. Romeo.

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Rochester

DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek

PLAYER ON SPOT: Tyree Smith- Stoney Creek.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season but it’s moved a bit east to Livernois and Walton Blvd. Utica won the district and 22 games last season behind a veteran heavy team. The Chieftains have Jonathan Carter, Cass Rissman, Kellen Condon, Eddy Tolme, and Owen Sulik coming back for Coach David Hinkle. Rochester looks to have a bounce back year after a tough 45-30 loss to Adams in the district semifinals. The Falcons have Max Muhl, Noah Kim, Luke Lower, Anthony Chirco, Kellen Muhl, and Jake Tandy coming back along with a talented freshmen who could make some noise in Owen Trombley for Coach Nick Evola. Utica Eisenhower had their ups and down last season. The Eagles have Trey Richardson, Randall Rice, Alex Edgar, John Hardiman, and Maddox Moore coming back for new Coach Anthony Muscrat. Romeo has been a really interesting story especially in the postseason winning two district games in four years. The Bulldogs have Ben Stojanvski, Salvatore Leone, Austin Habicht, Alex Kelley, and Brody Hare coming back for Coach Marv Cushingberry. Adams is coming off a very tough 66-61 loss to Utica on their home floor in the district finals. The Highlanders are a young team but they have proven experience in Trenton LaGarge, Luke Marcial, and Cannon Flynn coming back for Coach Isiah Novak. Stoney Creek looks to have the biggest pressure on them this season after winning nine games in two years. The Cougars have Gideon Beers, Chritos Marselis, Koby Rauner, Joseph Zoorob, Spencer Beckeman, and Tyree Smith coming back for Coach Jeff Olind. This district looks different on paper but you never know with how this would work.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don’t see any changes in regards to seeding the top four teams. I had a great conversation with Adams girls basketball coach Joe Malburg talking about this district and will go more in depth on the January 27th podcast. Rochester has the top spot and Stoney Creek has the second spot based on the MPR but I think Adams strength of schedule will eventually help them despite them falling to Stoney Creek. Rochester has a win over Stoney Creek and has been injury riddled (Jake Tandy.) The only change I made was Utica and Romeo switching especially with the Chieftains 41-40 win over the Bulldogs. I’ve seen all six of these teams play, I think the top four teams are legit, I’m not sure about Utica and really not sure about Romeo. Overall this is an evenly based district with four teams having a legit shot.

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Troy, 2. Royal Oak, 3. Troy Athens, 4. Berkley, 5. Warren Mott.

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Royal Oak

DARKHORSE: Troy Athens

PLAYER ON SPOT: Leo Penoza- Troy.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Royal Oak. Royal Oak has been a hard team to figure out in the last two years especially starting out strong but struggling during the middle to the end of the season. The Ravens have CJ Hariston, Nick Hoffman, Yurem Patino, and Ethan Cousins coming back for Coach Aaron Smith. Berkley lost a ton of talent from last season but they somehow rebound really well. The Bears have Avery Johnson, Evan Young, Jacob Friedman, Evan Haenick, Sam Niyo, and Kenny Swain coming back for Coach Joe Sermo. Troy looks to be the favorite in this district for good reason. The Colts have Cameron Adams, Patrick Johnson, Andrew Lake, Leo Penoza, Cung Lian, Colin Bastein, Jack Sobotka, Will De’Armit, and Mason Parker coming back for Coach Gary Fralick. Warren Mott had a really tough year winning three games last season. The Marauders have Asraf Ahmed, Kevin Barden, Juan Chaney, Wesley Gilmore, Markel Green, Martino Hollywood, Siere Keith-Bouyer, Michael Kronner, and Micheal Plater coming back for Coach Gary Tilney. Troy Athens has a new coach and a new system this season. The Red Hawks have Nathan Piggott, Liam Dempsey, Nate Appledorn, Brendan Tucker, and Alex Beaubien coming back for new coach Mitchell Vercellino. This district on paper looks like it’s the Colts to lose but anything is possible in this district that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is a weird district to figure out. Troy looks to be locked into the top spot but two through four is a mess. Berkley is a weird team, injuries have hindered the Bears but they haven’t played to their potential thus making the change to the four spot despite Berkley beating Royal Oak. I thought about moving Troy Athens to the two line but they have not been consistent so kept them as the darkhorse. I moved the Ravens to the second spot despite their record even though I don’t know how they would do in a game against Troy Athens. Warren Mott is locked into the five seed. Overall just followed the MPR rankings which means the Colts are the team to beat.

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Hazel Park

Detroit Osborn

Detroit Pershing

Warren Lincoln

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Warren Lincoln, 2. Ferndale, 3. Detroit Pershing, 4. Ferndale University, 5. Hazel Park, 6. Detroit Osborn.

FAVORITE: Warren Lincoln

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Pershing

PLAYER ON SPOT: DaMarion Bozeman- Warren Lincoln.

INSIGHT: This is the district that has produced the last two Division Two State Champions in Ferndale and Warren Lincoln. Warren Lincoln is the defending Division Two State Champs. The Abes are loaded with proven experience in DaMarion Bozeman, Markus Blackwell, Moses Blackwell, Chris Morgan, Chase Moore, Julian Edison, and Oshay Johnson coming back and have added Geon Hutchins who transferred from Oak Park for Coach Wendell Henry. Ferndale won the Division Two State crown two years ago will look to have a bounce back season. The Eagles have Eden Vinyard, Toriano Adams, Cameron Fraser, Drakkar Washington, Tyler Ruth, Juilan Cardenas, and Dexter Wilson for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale University should be much improved this season. The Eagles have Kevin Williams-Jackson, Amere Harris, Tyler Stokes, DeQuan Small, Taiwan Johnson, Antonio Jones, Dontrelle Milton, Devin Moore, and Kody Pippen coming back for Coach Josh Nicks. Hazel Park went through a coaching transition winning seven games last season. The Vikings have Kylen Belton, Douglas Calhoun, Christopher Hana, Maxwell Jones-El, and Jayden Page coming back along with newcomer Jayce Goff coming into the program for Coach Cecil Goff. Detroit Pershing won 12 games last season but they will have a new coach. Detroit Osborn will look to have a bounce back season winning 10 games last season for Coach Anton Bradford. This district looks like we could see a rematch between Ferndale and Warren Lincoln but anything is possible that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made a few changes to this district. Ferndale has really struggled and sits third in the MPR behind Detroit Pershing and Warren Lincoln. I don’t see the Eagles catching the Abes but they could catch the Doughboys if they start winning. I get Coach Juan Rickman wants to play a tough schedule but morale is a concern and I mentioned that on the podcast many times. I kept Ferndale on the second line knowing how capable the Eagles and Rickman are and I feel they could make a run and pass Detroit Pershing. I moved Ferndale University to the four seed past Hazel Park, the Vikings lead the Eagles at the moment but I feel confident that Ferndale University will pass Hazel Park in the seedings. Detroit Osborn has struggled and thus is the six seed in this district. Overall no changes to the messaging, just the seedings. Warren Lincoln is still the favorite to win this district.

District 61 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Center Line

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Center Line, 2. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 3. Eastpointe, 4. Harper Woods, 5. St. Clair Shores South Lake

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Harper Woods Chandler Park

DARKHORSE: Eastpointe

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jyshawn Lucas- Center Line.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in extreme southern Macomb County with a few Macomb and Wayne County teams in this district. Eastpointe won 14 games and the district crown last season. They also have home court this season. The Shamrocks have Aaron Bailey and Dalton Davis coming back for Coach Michael Railey. Harper Woods will have a very young team especially with the guards this season. The Pioneers have Miron Bayor, Jaden McDonald, and Curtis Flaug coming back for Coach TaJuan Porter. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 12 games last season for Coach Bobby Thompson. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 11 games for Coach Kurt Wilson. Center Line won 21 games last season and comes into this district. The Panthers have Kameren Broughton, Jyshawn Lucas, Isiah Ashford, Terez Holmes, Caleli Spencer, Brian Kennedy, and Tony Jones coming back for Coach Derrick Walton. Center Line is the favorite but Harper Woods Chandler Park, Eastpointe, and Harper Woods could have strong says in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is a district where there could be some big changes. I moved Harper Woods to the four seed with their recent struggles. Eastpointe and St. Clair Shores South Lake have won seven games and are more than capable of doing more but it depends on the MPR. Eastpointe and Harper Woods Chandler Park move up to the second and third seeds respectively. The Eagles are a very interesting team to watch based on their seeding. I think Center Line is the favorite in this district so no changes with them at the moment.

 

District 62 @ Pontiac

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Macomb Lutheran North

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Madison Heights Lamphere

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 3. Pontiac, 4. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 5. Macomb Lutheran North, 6. Madison Heights Lamphere.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

DARKHORSE: Pontiac

PLAYER ON SPOT: Joe DeCasas- Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Pontiac gets to host the district at Sy Green Gym after being in Division One, they are now in Division Two. The Phoenix have JJ Claudio coming back for Coach Andrew Myers. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is coming off a really bad taste after losing to Lake Fenton in the district semifinals last season. The Fighting Irish has Joe DeCasas, Nick Fandino, Mark Galle, Micahel Khouri, Nick Kobylecki, Sam Phillips, Sam Stowe, and Colin Whalen coming back for Coach Whitney Robinson. Birmingham Detroit Country Day should be a tough out for anyone. The Yellow Jackets have Drew Bailey, Isiah Marino, Jaidyn Martin, Anthony Carthwright, Blake Murphy, Christian Cast, Kordell Robinson, Evan Singleton, Jack Soble, Chase Kukes, Alex Elia, Dominic Cassise, and Cade Wilhelmi coming back for Coach Darryl Nobles. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood really struggled last season. The Cranes have Ellis Akpotu, Andy Kim, Aiden Stapels, Finn Duzan, Mashiro Kurosawa, Henry Snee, Charlie Song, Adam Zhang, Vagelis Tzoumakis, and Julius Pitt coming back for Coach Matt Gump. Macomb Lutheran North won eight games last season. The Mustangs have Ben Scheuher, Jake Bullaro, Cameron Head, Jack McMahon, Brody Law, and Andrew Starrs coming back for Coach Jared Bender. Madison Heights Lamphere won 10 games last season. The Rams have Aidan Grzesikowski, Jack Robinson, Aiden Lindsey, Evan Landstrom, Cameron Cross, Jeriemah Ray, and Kaden Johnson coming back for Coach Bobby Robinson. This should be a very interesting district as mentioned, the Fighting Irish and the Yellow Jackets are the favorites but you can never ever count out the Phoenix.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is an very interesting district. I made some changes which resembles the MPR for this district. I moved Pontiac Notre Dame Prep from the top spot to the two line based on the performance of Birmingham Detroit Country Day. I’m baffled Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood is seeded higher than Pontiac, I don’t see that lasting with how the Phoenix have been playing, if that remains, I’ll be shocked. I kept Pontiac on the darkhorse column with confidence over the Cranes. Other than that no other changes at the moment.

Written Sunday January 5th at 9:00 AM

Happy new year to all. Here is the first top 23 for the basketball season for 2025.

Boys

1. Clarkston 8-1: Cole Charter was outstanding at North Farmington on Friday.

2. Groves 7-2: Falcons held to their lowest score of the season in loss to Avondale.

3. West Bloomfield 5-5: Lakers defense is still a problem.

4. Avondale 6-5: Maybe the Yellow Jackets do belong in the Red, ask Groves.

5. Oxford 9-0: Brennan Elling has really been the story for the Wildcats.

6. Farmington 9-2: Falcons playing team ball is a winning formula.

7. Lake Orion 4-5: Dragons need to get healthy and soon.

8. North Farmington 5-5: Raiders are 1-5 in their last six games.

9. Ferndale 2-9: Tough schedule has harden the Eagles but morale concerns me.

10. Adams 3-7: Highlanders have shown toughness and grit with everything they can’t control.

11. Pontiac 4-5: Phoenix control their own destiny in the Blue.

12. Stoney Creek 5-3: Cougars might have found something.

13. Royal Oak 5-3: Ravens might have found something which is a good sign.

14. Troy Athens 3-6: Red Hawks have been playing much better.

15. Rochester 5-4: Max Muhl has really stepped up his game since the injury to Jake Tandy.

16. Bloomfield Hills 5-5: Something isn’t right with the Blackhawks.

17. Troy 3-7: Colts need to find that Robin to Mason Parker’s Batman and fast.

18. Seaholm 1-7: Maples have played better despite record.

& 19. Ferndale University 5-3: Eagles have struggled in their last three Blue games.

20. Southfield Arts and Tech 3-7: Warriors have been a hard team to figure out.

21. Berkley 3-5: Bears injury woes have hurt them.

22. Oak Park 2-2: Knights have been a hard team to figure out.

23. Harper Woods 2-5: Pioneers win over Fraser is huge at the moment.

 

 

Girls

1. Seaholm 6-1: Maples look to 2025 with high expectation.

2. Clarkston 4-5: Wolves record is very deceiving.

3. Avondale 5-1: Yellow Jackets look like the team to beat in the Blue.

4. West Bloomfield 3-4: Sheridan Beal has really stepped up for the Lakers.

5. Ferndale 4-4: Eagles morale and lack of depth concerns me.

6. Stoney Creek 4-1: Cougars have won four straight since the Walled Lake Northern disaster.

7. Lake Orion 5-2: If the underclassmen keep developing, look out.

8. Oxford 2-5: Wildcats got most of their team back despite rough start.

9. Rochester 3-3: Alice Max has been on another level lately.

10. Berkley 6-1: Bears could be that challenger to Avondale for the Blue.

11. Royal Oak 2-3: Ravens will be a team to watch in 2025.

12. Southfield Arts and Tech 4-2: Hopefully Warriors addressed the defense issues.

13. Adams 4-3: Highlanders will be fine when Faith Zoldus comes back.

14. Groves 1-5: Falcons got their first win under the Coach Jessica Duleba era.

15. Troy Athens 4-3: Red Hawks have been an odd team to figure out.

16. Troy 0-5: If Diamond Prince comes back look out.

17. North Farmington 3-5: Raiders young group is taking lumps but progress as well.

18. Bloomfield Hills 1-3: Blackhawks looking to 2025 with momentum.

19. Farmington 3-4: Falcons have showed some competitiveness.

20. Pontiac 2-3: Phoenix need to win over teams not with an Academy name on it.

21. Ferndale University 4-3: Eagles are playing much better, record shows it.

22. Oak Park 0-3: Knights will look to get 2025 on the right track.

23. Harper Woods 3-2: Pioneers off court issues still present.

Written Friday December 27th at 12:35 AM

Updated Monday December 30th at 10:46 AM

I noticed as we head into the weekend that there will be numerous holiday tournaments going on this weekend on both the boys and girls side on the hardwood.

I’ve noticed that most schools are posting their scores onto the MHSAA website but others have not done so and in particularly in classics and showcases.

I’ve seen Ferndale’s girls basketball games at Detroit Renaissance against Detroit Mumford even though I have the score of that game when they played in the Detroit Renaissance Classic or their game against Ypsilanti Arbor Prep in the Motor City Roundball Classic. Neither scores have been reported as of yet but as of this morning the score was in.

Teams need to start put their scores into the MHSAA website because it has a huge impact when it comes to the postseason. They decide your seed heading into the district.

Most teams report their scores but there are some that don’t, some more than others it varies.

I talked to Rochester Boys Basketball Coach Nick Evola about this issue a few weeks ago. I’m still trying to think of ways to create something for the league to report scores to the MHSAA website.

There are some fans that can not afford the 10 dollars or 15 dollars to go to these games. It’s not a good investment for fans to pay that much money only to attend one game especially in this economy. There are others who don’t want to make the long travel that far. It makes relying on these X pages that much more valuable.

Regular season games are mostly five dollars and in the postseason it’s seven dollars to attend.

I seen the Waterford Mott Showcase, the North Farmington Holiday Extravaganza, The D-Zone Showcases, The Mitten Recruit Showcase, and the OAA/MAC Challenge have done an excellent job of reporting scores on their X pages.

I think the St. Clair Community College Showcase and especially The Motor City Roundball Classic needs to do better when it comes to reporting EVERY score, not certain games.

If teams want to go to these showcase games they need to report their scores to the MHSAA website but who should report the score, the school, or the host of the showcase???

That is a very interesting question going forward.