Stoney Creek has their new Varsity Football Coach

by orionontv | Jan 29, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Stoney Creek has their new Varsity Football Coach.

Basketball Top 23

by orionontv | Jan 29, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 27th at 1:15 AM

Updated Saturday January 27th at 10:25 PM

Here is the Top 23.

Boys

1. North Farmington (13-1): Raiders had a surprisingly blowout win at Clarkston which is mind boggling but lost a tough one to Grand Rapids Northview.
2. Troy (12-1): The Big Three is at it again.
3. West Bloomfield (10-5): Lakers have been hanging by the moment.
4. Ferndale (9-5): Eagles have been hanging by the moment.
5. Adams (10-4): The Highlanders three point barrage broke out in a big way.
6. Lake Orion (10-5): Dragons are finally back home after three weeks on the road.
7. Troy Athens (10-4): When Emmanuel Robinson gets going the Red Hawks are tough to beat.
8. Farmington (7-6): Don’t look now here comes the Falcons.
9. Clarkston (6-8): Wolves have lost six straight including a humbling loss to North Farmington.
10. Groves (4-10): Life in the Red has been very tough for the Falcons but they’re very competitive.
11. Avondale (9-5): Yellow Jackets still control their destiny in the Blue.
12. Berkley (10-4): Bears have been a really odd team to figure out.
13. Oxford (9-5): When Wildcats have a Robin they are tough to beat.
14. Harper Woods (4-8): Pioneers have played Troy really tough.
15. Pontiac (7-7): Phoenix have been up and down lately.
16. Oak Park (3-8): Hard to trust the Knights right now.
17. Royal Oak (9-6): Ravens have been up and down lately.
18. Seaholm (4-9): Maples defense will be key for the rest of the season.
19. Bloomfield Hills (2-10): Blackhawks are improving despite record.
20. Stoney Creek (4-9): Cougars were playing well until they got to Oxford.
21. Rochester (3-12): Falcons have struggled to score 40 the last two games.
22. Ferndale University (2-11): Eagles are really struggling right now.
23. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-12): Warriors are really struggling right now.

Girls

1. West Bloomfield (11-0): Lakers are rolling over everyone.
2. Stoney Creek (10-0): Good luck against West Bloomfield, Cougars.
3. Clarkston (10-4): Wolves had a rough outing like everyone will be against West Bloomfield.
4. Ferndale (8-3): Eagles underclassmen are performing at a high level.
5. Southfield Arts and Tech (8-2): Warriors have been rolling lately.
6. Royal Oak (8-3): Ravens have lost two of three which is very unusual.
7. Oxford (7-5): Wildcats have been up and down lately.
8. Rochester (4-6): Falcons grinded out a confidence boosting win over Lake Orion.
9. Lake Orion (7-3): Dragons need to clean a lot of things up and quick.
10. Seaholm (7-4): Maples control their own destiny in the White.
11. Troy Athens (6-6): Red Hawks are 5-2 in their last seven games.
12. Bloomfield Hills (5-6): Blackhawks might be back to being themselves.
13. Troy (6-7): Diamond Prince is something special.
14. Berkley (7-4): Bears can’t let Diamond Prince score 40 points, that’s a concern.
15. Groves (4-7): Falcons have been up and down lately.
16. Harper Woods (5-3): Pioneers have a ton of games ahead of them.
17. Avondale (3-8): Yellow Jackets have been up and down lately.
18. Adams (3-10): Highlanders have been very competitive despite record.
19. North Farmington (7-6): Raiders have a ton of problems right now.
20. Pontiac (4-8): Phoenix looked good against Ferndale University but what happened against Waterford Mott???
21. Oak Park (1-6): Knights got their first win of the season over Ferndale University.
22. Farmington (1-10): Falcons are really struggling right now.
23. Ferndale University (0-11): Eagles are really struggling right now.

Girls Basketball Districts Are Out-2024

by orionontv | Jan 29, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Girls Basketball Districts Are Out-2024.

Written Tuesday June 20th at 9:20 AM

Updated Sunday January 28th at 10:40 AM

This article will be updated very often. Coaches including those are not in the OAA, if you want your thoughts on your district for the blog, please DM me on Twitter or email me.

Here is the districts.

District 60 @ Harper Woods Chandler Park

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Eastpointe

Detroit Denby Tech

Detroit East English Village Prep

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Harper Woods, 2. Harper Woods Chandler Park

FAVORITE: Harper Woods

NEXT: Harper Woods Chandler Park

DARKHORSE: Detroit East English Village Prep

PLAYER ON SPOT: Clearia Peterson-Harper Woods

THOUGHTS: This district should be much easier for the Pioneers coming back from Division One to Division Two this season. The familiarity should help Harper Woods knowing the district is in the city of Harper Woods even though it’s not at Harper Woods High School. The Pioneers won 12 games last season and will look for more this season. They have Clearia Peterson, Laniaya West, Mikyra Kelly, Tamina Montgomery, Autumn Trotter, and Kendall Kelsey coming back for new coach LaTonya Tate. Detroit East English Village Prep won 13 games last season for Coach Michelle Goodwin. Detroit Denby really struggled last season. They will have a new coach in Quintelle Foster taking over the program. Eastpointe won four games last season for Coach Deon Woods. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 14 games last season for Coach Omar Ahart. This district looks like it should be a two team race between the Pioneers and the Eagles but Detroit East English Village Prep could be a sleeper in this district.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: I don’t really see any changes. Harper Woods is the top seed in this district despite playing eight games. Harper Woods Chandler Park has the best shot to overcome the Pioneers. Detroit East English Village Prep, Eastpointe, and Detroit Denby look like they have locked the seeds up for now. Overall as mentioned no changes.

District 58 @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Detroit Lincoln King Academy

Detroit Henry Ford

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Ferndale

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Henry Ford

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ariyanna Wiggins-Birmingham Detroit Country Day

THOUGHTS: This is not a really strong district on paper. Birmingham Detroit Country Day won 18 games last season and is the favorite in this district. The Yellow Jackets have Ariyanna Wiggins, Ayaana Hai, Julia Younes, Sadie Rifkin, Jaidyn Elam, Peja Liles, Emma Arico, Jayla Jackson, and Naiya Krispin coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Detroit Henry Ford went from Division One to Division Two. The Trojans won four games for Coach Chevelle O’Brien last season. Detroit Lincoln King won six games for Coach Eric Boyles last season. Ferndale made a ton of strides winning eight games last season. They will look to have more success this season. The Eagles have Trinity Bennett, Jada Buchanan, Madiah Clark, Alia Herron, Ja’Nyia Larry, Jayla Jackson, Lily Bowson, Iyanna Davis, Demi Bolton, Aaliyah Frost, Jai’la Martin, Isabella Mendoza, and Jayla Pouncy coming back for Coach Keith Paris. Ferndale University really struggled last season. The Eagles have Laressa Brogdon, Lemia Butler, Terrionna Davis, Brooklyn Gray, Tyla Jacon-Parish, JonNae Kitchen, Kayla Lewis, Nakyra Montgomery, and Leanna Spencer coming back for Coach Brianna Rowe. This district overall looks like its Birmingham Detroit Country Day’s district to lose.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: This district has a ton of changes. Birmingham Detroit Country Day has locked up the top seed in the district but the two seed looks very tight. Detroit Henry Ford is off to a torrid start and hasn’t lost yet, they hold the two seed for now. Ferndale has played a brutal schedule and despite all their success they have the three seed. Detroit Lincoln King Academy has won nine games and is the four seed. Out of these three teams, I think Ferndale has the best chance to get the two seed in this district. Ferndale University is out of it right now when it comes to seeding. Overall this district hasn’t changed but it has gotten much tighter for the two seed.

District 32 @ Grand Blanc

OXFORD

Davison

Grand Blanc

Lapeer

Holly

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford

FAVORITE: Oxford

NEXT: Grand Blanc

DARKHORSE: Lapeer

PLAYER ON SPOT: Alison Hufstedler-Oxford

THOUGHTS: This district might be the best chance for Oxford to make some noise. The Wildcats are in the Red and have proven talent in Peyton Richter, Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Braydee Elling, and Lexi Yankee coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. Grand Blanc has beaten the Wildcats the last three years in the postseason. The Bobcats have Chelsea Bishop, Lauren Piscopink, Raven McQueen, and Mayla Brown coming back for new coach Bob Taylor. Davison really struggled winning seven games last season but there has been some hype surrounding the Cardinals with the proven experience and what they have done this summer. The Cardinals have Paige Allis, Mayae Carradine, Grace Little, Lillian Kish, Gracie Wright, Marionna Dixon, Samantha Beller, Brooke Pizzala, and Lily Morey coming back for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. Lapeer won seven games last season. The Lightning have Sephora Miller, Madison White, Lilly Young, Carley Hoover, Hannah Dennis, Alexis Norman, and Madison Spanicciatti coming back for Coach Evan Bell. Holly really struggled winning three games last season. The Bronchos have Mallory Hall and Adel Hoglund coming back for Coach Ben Varner. Overall this district looks like a two maybe three team district but this could be the Wildcats best chance as mentioned.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: This district has no changes. Grand Blanc holds the top seed while Oxford is locked at the two seed. Davison, Holly, and Lapeer have really struggled this season also the Wildcats own a win over the Cardinals. The Lightning also have a win over Davison as well. Overall as mentioned no need to change anything.

District 29 @ Waterford Mott

LAKE ORION

CLARKSTON

PONTIAC

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Clarkston, 2. Lake Orion

FAVORITE: Lake Orion

NEXT: Clarkston

DARKHORSE: No One

PLAYER ON SPOT: Izzy Wotlinski-Lake Orion

THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season when Lake Orion won the district crown at Clarkston 54-52 last season. This district could have the same story but different venue. Waterford Kettering really struggled last season. The Captains have Avery Topinka, Elle Dropps, Lourdes Hale, Jaiden Brady, Isabella Labo, Kylee Nickerson, and Nora Hernandez coming back for new coach and former Oakland University mens basketball standout Rawle Marshall. Waterford Mott will be a very interesting team. The Corsairs have Marissa Trevino, Karli Koskinen, Kate Saunders, Natalia Santia, Ahmya Gulley, and Julianna Lemus coming back for new coach Andy Wellman. Pontiac was very young last season with seven freshmen now sophomores led by Aniyah Shaw, Isisas Shaw, and Carroll Hunt coming back. The Phoenix should be better for Coach Corray Lett. Clarkston is a very interesting team with some proven talent despite being young and not having a ton of size. The Wolves have Elliana Robak, Emily Valencia, Claire Walker, Marley Mazur, Kierra Zorski, Lauren Fishtaller, Ellery Hernandez, and Ella Morgner coming back while Brooklyn Covert and Lexi Fry could make their names known as freshmen for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Lake Orion graduated nine seniors from a team that went to the regional final last season but four players remain from the team that won the district crown either last season or two years ago. They could be very interesting to watch this season. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Lexi Stroschein, Charlotte Peplowski, and Ryann Pawlacyzk coming back. They added a transfer in Neveah Wood and Ellie Britt returned this offseason for Coach Bob Brydges. Wood and Wotlinski are coming back from ACL injuries. If Brydges can put the pieces together then the Dragons could be right where they need to be. Overall not a ton of changes, this district still looks like it should be a blue and gold vs green and white district final.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: This district has no changes in the favorite and next column although did make a change for MPR purposes to accommodate Clarkston’s win over Lake Orion. The story in that game was the first quarter when the Wolves blitzkrieg the Dragons. Clarkston has the top seed because of that win over Lake Orion and their non conference wins look stronger at the moment but Lake Orion still has a chance to catch them if they can get off of this rut they’re in. Looking at the eyeball test between the Wolves and the Dragons, Lake Orion won the remaining quarters of that game against Clarkston which is why there are no changes to the favorite and next lines. The Dragons has not been clicking on all cylinders which is why they are the two seed right now. A lot can change between now and March, Clarkston still has to go to Lake Orion which should be very interesting. I would take the Dragons over the Wolves despite their issues on a neutral site. Waterford Mott, Waterford Kettering, and Pontiac have no shot at overtaking the big two. No changes as mentioned to this district, I still think when clicking on all cylinders, Lake Orion’s is still the team to beat despite their rut. Overall no changes.

District 28 @ Troy Athens

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

TROY

TROY ATHENS

AVONDALE

SEAHOLM

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Bloomfield Hills, 2. Seaholm

FAVORITE: Bloomfield Hills

NEXT: Seaholm

DARKHORSE: Troy

PLAYER ON SPOT: Olivia Sprangler-Troy

THOUGHTS: This should be a wide open district at Troy Athens. Bloomfield Hills has been rising each year winning the Blue last season. This might be the best chance for the Blackhawks to win a district.”Bloomfield Hills will be the team to beat” said new Troy Girls Basketball Coach Laura Guzman. The Blackhawks have Ruby Smith, Ashley Forner, Brianna Young, and Michelle Barnett coming back for Coach Kristen Massey. Troy was very young last season. “I think the girls at Troy are eager to learn” said Guzman. The Colts have Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Olivia Sprangler, Aly Matuza, Kelsey Block, Victoria Siegan, Carly Blair, Sophia Kaltsounis, and Carly Higginbottom coming back for Guzman. “I think sleeper is the best way to describe the girls” Guzman added. Avondale was very young last season but they made a splash this offseason with Morgan McPherson transferring from Adams. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Amaria Daniel, Trenitee Carroll, Sasha McClellan, Khalia Bradley, and Arielle Dudley coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Troy Athens has been an up and down team with injuries really derailing them last season. The Red Hawks have Abby Malone, Katy Keller, Ava Laurer, Kayci Mercier, and Alex Link coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Seaholm has been a team that has had their ups and downs. The Maples have a ton of proven experience in Mary Wiltgen, Mary Gumbis, Clara Guffey, Addy Kitzman, Emma Weber, Taylor Hartwig, and Addy Flynn coming back for Coach Shay Manchester. Overall this is a wide open district, anyone can take this district that is for sure.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: The MPR in this district looks very tight at the moment. Seaholm and Bloomfield Hills are neck and neck for the top two seeds and these two play each other twice. Troy and Troy Athens are right there in the mix and they play each other twice as well. Troy is playing their best basketball right now which has to please Coach Laura Guzman. Troy Athens has also played very well. Seaholm is coming off two monster wins and controls it’s destiny. Bloomfield Hills has finally snapped out of it’s rut. Avondale has really struggled but when healthy they are dangerous. This should be a fun district, overall no changes but this district could have a ton of movement between now and March.

District 27 @ Stoney Creek

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Stoney Creek. 2. Rochester

FAVORITE: Stoney Creek

NEXT: Rochester

DARKHORSE: Romeo

PLAYER ON SPOT: Merrick Schlawbach-Stoney Creek

THOUGHTS: This district should be very interesting when looking at the teams. It is the same as last season when Rochester won the district crown. Utica Eisenhower has Devyn Raymond, Brooke Nicholson, Ava Gojcaj, Mariana Stojcevski, Gabriella Gojcaj, Paige Hays, Abby Nezich, and Abby Klaft coming back for Coach Cliff Piper. Romeo won 12 games last season. The Bulldogs have Clare Carmody, Abigail Ganfield, Lydia Hall, Anna Iwanicki, Jacqueline LeBlanc, Mya Muschong, Emily Reynolds, and Allison Schoenherr coming back for Coach Ronald LeBlanc. Adams had a very young team last season. The Highlanders have a ton of proven experience in Samantha Blaine, Layla Tomezak, Raegan Jarrell, and Faith Zoldos coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. Rochester is coming off their first district crown since 2016. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Kaitlyn Guiola, Kayla Parsons, and Lucy Cook coming back and Angela Cichowski could make some noise for Coach Bill Thurston. Stoney Creek has been a contender each year in this district and this season is no other. The Cougars have Sarah LaPrarie, Merrick Schlawbach, Taylor Fulkerson, and Izzy Ivezaj coming back but Coach Kellen James stepped down and Columbus Williams was named the new coach. Overall the Falcons are the slight favorite because of Max but the Cougars are right there as well as the Eagles but never count out the Highlanders or the Bulldogs by any means in this district.

Adams Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC1SlkaSIfs

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: This district has some surprises. Romeo is the two seed over Rochester but I don’t expect that to last for long, I would be shocked if the Falcons doesn’t overtake the Bulldogs. Romeo has had a very strong year thus far. Stoney Creek is locked into the top seed and has home court. Utica Eisenhower has surprisingly have had a down season. Adams has been struggling but they are still a tough out. Overall I put Romeo as the darkhorse and Stoney Creek has beaten both Rochester and Romeo on the road during the season. I don’t see any changes to the projections or anything at this time.

District 23 @ Warren Cousino

GROVES

ROYAL OAK

Warren Cousino

Warren Mott

Sterling Heights

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Royal Oak, 2. Warren Cousino

FAVORITE: Royal Oak

NEXT: Warren Cousino

DARKHORSE: Groves

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jacey Roy-Groves

THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district which has a ton of different dynamics. Warren Cousino won 14 games last season and has home court. The Patriots have a ton of proven experience in DeMaya Asberry, Bailey Bainbridge, Laela Bendert, Sara Kozel, Nina Williamson, Alex Pfeiffer, Marleen Marooki, and Nevaeh Porter coming back for Coach Amy Mitchell. Warren Mott won 11 games last season. The Marauders have Leajah Ferguson, Claira Taylor, Addison Brown, and Conamora Ndana coming back for Coach Patrick Schmidt. Sterling Heights won 12 games last season for Coach Michael Gurney. Groves is a very interesting team. They lost a ton of talent but they have some proven players back from a team that should have beat Birmingham Marian in the district semifinals last season. The Falcons have Jacey Roy, Neveah Cochran-McCay, Cameron Little, and Cira Racco coming back for Coach Alison Hidey. Royal Oak may be the most dangerous team in this district because they have everyone from last season coming back. The Ravens have a ton of proven experience with Emilee Austin, Ceci Irwin, Meghan Hahn, Maddie Lawerence, Anna Waterstredt, Lydia Dickens, and Lucy Freytag coming back for Coach Brian Sopota. A player who could make some noise for Royal Oak is Katie Roelofs. She has made some noise during the summer and could be a key player for Sopota. “We’re east again with Groves there and several MAC schools, we’ve been south with Detroit Renaissance, north with Birmingham Marian, and the last time we went east Warren Cousino went onto win a State title, we’ll see different teams and compete in that district” Sopota said at Media Day. This should be a very interesting district to watch that is for sure.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: The MPR race is starting to get a little tighter especially for the two top seeds. Royal Oak still holds the edge despite some struggles lately. The Ravens have the top seed for now but that win over Rochester might loom large especially if the Falcons keep improving. Warren Cousino is going to try to make a charge at Royal Oak. The Patriots are locked into the two seed right now. Groves has really struggled which is very surprising. Warren Mott has been unexpectedly better than thought. Sterling Heights has really struggled. Overall I don’t see any changes at this time and the MPR proves it right now.

District 22 @ Farmington Hills Mercy

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Farmington Hills Mercy

Birmingham Marian

PROJECTED MPR: 1. West Bloomfield, 2. Farmington Hills Mercy

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield

NEXT: Farmington Hills Mercy

DARKHORSE: Birmingham Marian

PLAYER ON SPOT: Sheridan Beal-West Bloomfield

THOUGHTS: This district is deemed the “Group of Death” with three proven schools that are in this district. West Bloomfield is a slight favorite in this district and I mean slight very lightly. The Lakers have Kendall Hendrix, Sheridan Beal, Destiny Washington, Ava Lord, Gabrielle Hale, Summer Davis and Indya Davis coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Farmington Hills Mercy is going to be a serious player in this district after winning 22 games last season. The Marlins have Aizlyn Albanese, Owynn Evans, Emily Walker, Allison Smiley, Ava Lorriane, Jessica Heath, and Abby Bores coming back for Coach Gary Morris. It was un Birmingham Marian like last season winning 10 games but they won a district. The Mustangs should be much better this season. They have Mackenzie Swanson, Molly McLeod, Ella Swanson, Charlie Bingham, Charlotte Quaine, Katelyn Morgan, Scarlett Bouschet, Abby Landa, Annalisa Bortolotti, and Ruby Jansen coming back for Coach Michelle Lindsey. They also have incoming freshmen Mack Reid who could make an impact this season. Farmington is a very interesting team with EdiMari King, Anna Tornachuk, and Jayla Silver coming back. They will have a new coach Natalie Nowak. North Farmington is in complete rebuild mode. The Raiders have Hannah Hart and Asiyah Jihad coming back along with transfer Anaiah Bowers for new Coach Michael Allin. Three teams have a shot to win this district as mentioned. Whoever wins this district would have earned it..

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: West Bloomfield is locked for the top seed in this district. The battle is for the second seed between Farmington Hills Mercy and Birmingham Marian. The Mustangs have not been the same team since beating the Marlins in overtime. Farmington Hills Mercy just got Albanese back from injury but they haven’t been consistent. What helps both teams is the Catholic League is tough, it’s possible they could meet one more time in the Catholic League playoffs. North Farmington has completely fallen apart, they have not been the same since the Lake Orion game. Farmington has really struggled this season. Overall no changes, I don’t see any of the Catholic League teams really challenging West Bloomfield at this time.

District 21 @ Berkley

BERKLEY

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Redford Thurston

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Southfield Arts and Tech

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Southfield Arts and Tech

DARKHORSE: Berkley

PLAYER ON SPOT: Maeve Nolan-Berkley

THOUGHTS: This district looks very interesting on paper. Detroit Renaissance is the early favorite because they went to the Division One Final Four last season. The Phoenix have the majority of their roster in Alehia Wade, Anaya Hardy, Harmonie Bolton, Nyana Pharr, Victoria Gambles, Makayla Johnson, Christian Sanders, Sterling Gooden, Jaebrian Autry, Nevaeh Otis, Imani Johnson, and Marhea Bradshaw coming back for Coach DeShawn Wood. Detroit Mumford lost some talent from a team that won 10 games last season but they could be a sleeper. The Mustangs have Cherish Jefferson, CeNiyah Williams, Alaijah Thomas, and Kamira Bragg coming back for Coach Kareem Hogan. Redford Thurston won nine games last season but they will have a new coach in Sydney Droughins this season. Oak Park was up and down last season. The Knights should have some more experience for new coach Tyler Washington. Southfield Arts and Tech has been very good offensively but just awful defensibly. The Warriors have some proven talent in Kamara Paige, Christen Banks, Jordan Ushery, and Jamyra Fritz coming back for Coach Shaquita Coltrane. Berkley has a ton of proven experience after a very tough year last season. The Bears have Avery Wintergarden, Maeve Nolan, Haley Kirkwood, Katelin Sillis, Kate McAllister, Madi Boswell, and Nadia Watt coming back for new Coach Clay Shaver. Early on, this district looks like it’s Detroit Renaissance’s but Berkley and Southfield Arts and Tech could have says and maybe Detroit Mumford although it’s not likely with the Mustangs.

LATE JANUARY UPDATE: This district really has no changes. Detroit Renaissance has locked up the top seed in the district. The two seed could be very interesting between Southfield Arts and Tech and Berkley. The Warriors have been rolling while the Bears have a win over Rochester which is huge at the moment. Detroit Mumford has really struggled but they have played a really tough schedule. Redford Thurston could be a player as well. Overall no changes to the seeding or placement of the teams right now but there could be in February.

Here is the districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Basketball/2024-Districts

Basketball Top 23

by orionontv | Jan 22, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 20th at 9:40 AM

Updated Saturday January 20th at 10:50 PM

Here is the top 23.

Records are updated.

Boys

1. North Farmington (11-0): Dylan Smith has really helped out the Raiders.
2. Troy (10-1): Andrew Lake has been the most impactful besides the Big Three for the Colts.
3. West Bloomfield (8-5): Lakers have been a different team since losing to North Farmington.
4. Ferndale (6-5): Trenton Ruth had a monster game including a buzzer beater against Clarkston.
5. Clarkston (6-6): Wolves have lost four in a row which is unheard of.
6. Adams (8-4): Highlanders have lost three straight which is surprising.
7. Berkley (9-3): Bears are starting to hit their stride.
8. Troy Athens (10-3): Red Hawks are rolling right now.
9. Lake Orion (9-4): Dragons will be fine after a really tough loss to Harper Woods.
10. Groves (4-8): Life in the Red is never easy but they are 4-3 outside the division.
11. Farmington (5-6): Greg Grays is the real deal for the Falcons.
12. Avondale (9-4): Jordan Clayton has been a solid surprise for the Yellow Jackets.
13. Oxford (7-4): Wildcats need some other than Jake Champagne to step up.
14. Oak Park (3-6): Knights haven’t played in a week.
15. Harper Woods (4-7): Pioneers have been solid at home but on the road will be the test.
16. Royal Oak (8-5): Ravens have been up and down lately.
17. Pontiac (4-7): Phoenix have been up and down lately.
18. Seaholm (3-8): Maples were competitive in their loss to Troy.
19. Stoney Creek (3-8): Evan Woodward could be a perfect complement to Tre Walker.
20. Rochester (3-10): Max Mohl continues to perform at a high level for the Falcons.
21. Bloomfield Hills (2-9): Blackhawks might have found something in their win over Southfield Arts and Tech.
22. Ferndale University (2-9): Eagles played much better than in recent weeks.
23. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-10): Warriors are really struggling right now.

Girls

1. West Bloomfield (9-0): Lakers rolling along.
2. Stoney Creek (9-0): Cougars have been living on the edge lately.
3. Royal Oak (7-1): Ravens haven’t played in a while.
4. Clarkston (10-3): Wolves still have some concerns despite win over Lake Orion.
5. Ferndale (7-2): Eagles have easiest part of schedule, might not get tested until the postseason.
6. Lake Orion (7-2): Dragons defense is a serious concern right now.
7. Southfield Arts and Tech (7-2): Warriors got back on track after a tough loss to West Bloomfield.
8. Berkley (7-3): Bears balance is really showing right now.
9. Oxford (6-4): Wildcats had been playing really good basketball lately.
10. Rochester (3-5): Falcons played much better despite loss to Stoney Creek.
11. Seaholm (5-4): Maples have been a much different team since loss to Stoney Creek.
12. Troy Athens (5-6): Red Hawks have shown they will be a tough out for anyone.
13. Bloomfield Hills (3-5): Blackhawks might be back.
14. Groves (3-6): Falcons have been up and down lately.
15. North Farmington (7-3): Raiders have been up and down lately.
16. Troy (4-7): Olivia Sprangler has been the X factor for the Colts.
17. Avondale (3-6): Yellow Jackets needed a win in the worst way and got it over Pontiac.
18. Harper Woods (4-3): Pioneers haven’t played in a while.
19. Adams (3-8): Highlanders are in a bit of a rut right now.
20. Pontiac (3-7): Phoenix are struggling a little bit.
21. Farmington (1-8): Falcons are really struggling right now.
22. Oak Park (0-6): Knights haven’t played in a while.
23. Ferndale University (0-8): Eagles are really struggling right now.

Boys Basketball Thoughts

by orionontv | Jan 15, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Boys Basketball Thoughts.

Written Sunday January 14th at 1:00 PM

North Farmington: The Raiders have been rolling along especially the play of Tyler Spratt and Landon Williams. Coach Todd Negoshian has a very good and proven squad along with their famous press and trap defense. North Farmington is rolling right now.

Ferndale: The Eagles have bounced back by winning two straight games. Ethan Vinyard has played really well for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale has been up and down which was almost similar to last season when they won the Division Two State crown. The Eagles should be fine going forward.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers have started to turn things around since their loss to North Farmington. Drew Wilson has fit in nicely for Coach Arnette Jordan and they had a huge third quarter where they pressed Clarkston in their ten point win over them. West Bloomfield has been rolling as of late but they still have some lulls at times which has to concern Jordan a little bit.

Adams: The Highlanders are going through a rough patch after two straight losses. Adams likes to shoot a ton of threes which has been their strength all season long. Coach Isiah Novak will be fine, they are going through a rough patch as mentioned.

Clarkston: The Wolves have lost two straight which is unusual for Coach Tim Waslik and his program. Peyton Fitzsimmons has been on and off. John Kaul, Cole Charter, and Quinn Rosenburg has been solid for Clarkston. The Wolves are going through a rough patch which all good teams go through during the season.

Oak Park: The Knights have been a Jekyll and Hyde as of late. They won 68-66 over Clarkston which sent shock waves around the league. Geon Hutchins has played very well for Coach Durrand Sheppard. Oak Park has been going through a lot but the win over the Wolves should help their confidence going forward.

Groves: The Falcons snapped their five game losing streak with a win over Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. Groves is still a very young team but life in the Red has been very difficult for them. This win should help Coach Marc West’s team gain some much needed confidence before heading back into Red play.

Troy: The Colts have been rolling as of late. The big three of Mason Parker, Jon Whiteside, and Chase Kupier have been playing very well but Coach Gary Fralick has been impressed with Andrew Lake. Lake has been steady at point guard which helps because it makes Parker into a true shooting guard. There is a ton to like with Troy right now.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers have played a really tough schedule and they are coming off a tough loss to Troy Athens. Julian Young and Isiah Lewis have been the key players for Coach TaJuan Porter. It will be very interesting to see what Harper Woods does going forward.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have been rolling as of late. They have won four straight and are playing the basketball that Coach Dave Scott likes. Emmanuel Robinson has been playing really well and they got a monster win in Harper Woods. The Red Hawks are playing really well right now.

Seaholm: The Maples have lost three straight which is not a good sign for Coach Mike DeGeeter and company. Seaholm has really struggled defensively although there were some signs against Lake Orion where they played well in spurts.

Lake Orion: The Dragons bounced back after a tough loss to Troy by winning a defensive slugfest against Seaholm. It’s been a team effort all around for Coach Jose Andrades. The Dragons are in a really good spot right now.

Farmington: The Falcons have really improved. They are 4-1 in their last five games. Greg Grays has been playing really well for Coach Byron Johnson. Farmington is gaining a ton of confidence, not a lot of team want to play them right now with how they have been doing.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks have gone through a very tough transition period. DaRon Mason, Carter Canfield, Phil Muhammad are doing everything they can for Coach Brian Canfield. They are getting better despite the record. They’ll be fine.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have been struggling as of late. They did score 62 points against Farmington. Coach Terrance Porter’s team has shown some greatness and struggle, which are all signs of a very young team. Southfield Arts and Tech has been a work in progress.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars have really struggled which is very odd especially for a second year. Coach Jeff Olind has had moments of greatness and rough stretches. Stoney Creek has a really tough schedule going forward with non league games against Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Hamtramck, Troy Athens, and Adams. Stoney Creek is struggling right now.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have won three straight and four of their last five games. Coach Jaret Thomas is still building the program in his image and he’s doing that. Justin-Greer Sykes has had some moments of greatness as has others as well. Avondale is playing well right now.

Oxford: The Wildcats took a hit in the league standings after falling to Berkley but they still have a chance to turn things around. Jake Champagne has played really well but he needs some help and has gotten it for the most part of the season. Coach Joe Fedorinchik will be fine going forward.

Rochester: The Falcons have been playing much better despite what the record says about them. Rochester has been very competitive for Coach Nick Evola. Max Muhl, Jake Tandy, and company have stepped up their games as of late. They will be fine going forward.

Berkley: The Bears control their destiny in the Blue after their statement win over Oxford. Coach Joe Sermo’s team has won five straight. Berkley has gotten key contributors playing well at the right time. If the Bears can keep this up then that division crown could be well within their grasp.

Pontiac: The Phoenix have been up and down which are normal signs for a young team. JJ Claudio has done very well for Pontiac. Coach Andrew Myers already has five wins for a young and emerging Pontiac squad going forward.

Royal Oak: The Ravens have lost three straight heading into 2024. Royal Oak has given up over 50 points twice in this stretch. Coach Aaron Smith needs to shore up the defensive intensity going forward because it’s looking almost similar to last season when the year changed they struggled.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have not been the same team lately. They have not scored over 50 points in four games which is a big concern. Coach Josh Nicks needs to get this figured out and quick if they want to turn things around.

Girls Basketball Thoughts

by orionontv | Jan 15, 2024 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Girls Basketball Thoughts.

Written Sunday January 14th at 12:00 PM

West Bloomfield: The Lakers were finally tested for three quarters against Birmingham Detroit Country Day but they pulled away late. West Bloomfield is riding with a ton of confidence heading into league play. Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Sheridan Beal, Ava Lord, and Kendall Hendrix have had big games for Coach Darrin McAllister. The Lakers are clicking on all cylinders heading into league play.

Rochester: The Falcons could be in some trouble after falling by 20 to Berkley. Berkley did a very good job containing Alice Max. It is clear that Coach Bill Thurston’s team misses Kylie Robinson. They should have her back soon. The guard situation is very concerning for Thurston. Rochester could be in some trouble heading into league play as mentioned.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars have not looked very impressive especially in the last two games where they won by six over Seaholm and eight over Troy Athens. Merrick Schwalbach, Sarah LaPrarie, and Izzy Ivezaj have played very well for Coach Columbus Williams. It will be very interesting to see how league play goes for Stoney Creek.

Lake Orion: The Dragons have shown a ton of balance in their strong start to the season. Lake Orion has had six different ladies lead them in scoring every night. Coach Bob Brydges has a great thing going right now when it comes to balance scoring. Everything has started to click although the defense has been a bit concerning especially in the last two games where they have allowed 47 ppg in that stretch. Knowing Brydges, they will be fine heading into league play.

Clarkston: The Wolves have heeded Coach Aaron Goodnough’s tweet after losing to Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Clarkston has won two straight since that game and have been scoring and defending at will. It will be very interesting to see how the Wolves do heading into league play with their confidence back.

Oxford: The Wildcats have won three straight heading into 2024. Alison Huffsteddler, Sophia Rabb, and Peyton Richter have been playing really well. They have also gotten contributions from Mia Champagne and Emma Beggs for Coach Rachel Bryer. League play starts up which should tell a lot about Oxford going forward.

Royal Oak: The Ravens have proven they are not ready for the Red yet after their loss to Stoney Creek. They did get wins over Adams and Pontiac. Royal Oak is the early favorite because of their experience. They still have two more Red teams on the schedule (Rochester, Clarkston) to prove they are ready for the Red. Coach Brian Sopota’s team has been handling their business which is a great sign going forward.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks have really struggled as of late. Bloomfield Hills has lost three straight and is giving up a ton of points defensively. Coach Kristen Massey has to get this figured out and quick in league play. The formula for success is there for Bloomfield Hills, it’s just executing it is the key going forward.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers are 1-3 in their last four games and have really struggled to score points in that span. They did put 68 points on Avondale which should help turn things around for Coach LaTonya Tate. Harper Woods needs to score to be successful. They have a shot to make some noise in league play.

Seaholm: The Maples have been up and down lately. Seaholm like Groves has been a really hard team to figure out. They’ve beaten the teams they were supposed to beat and lost to the teams they were supposed to lose. Coach Chris Manchester’s team needs to find that really big win against a team they were supposed to lose to in league play to make the next step.

Groves: The Falcons have been a really hard team to figure out. They have played a tough schedule and were blown out by West Bloomfield, Hartland, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Other than that Coach Allison Hidey’s team has been competitive. It will be very interesting to see how Groves does in the league, they could surprise some people, we’ll see what happens.

North Farmington: The Raiders had been on a roll but they have lost two of three games all be it to Lake Orion and Ferndale. Offense is the name of the game for North Farmington. Coach Michael Allin’s team has scored over 40 points in their wins but under 32 points in their two losses. Anaya Billups and Asisah Jihad has been their top players but they need more from Hannah Hart if the Raiders want to make any noise in league play.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have been rolling people until they ran into West Bloomfield where they allowed 97 points. In their two losses to Livonia Stevenson and West Bloomfield, Coach Shaquita Coltrane’s team has allowed 81 ppg. They were better in this area in their wins. Southfield Arts and Tech has the offense but the defense remains the question. If they can address this area then they could make some noise in the league.

Troy: The Colts have been competitive despite the record. Troy has a new big three of Diamond Prince, Olivia Sprangler, and Reagan Zeiter. The injury to Carly Higginbottom does not help things. Coach Laura Guzman needs to find that post that stands out with Higginbottom’s injury. She has something building in Troy but with league play on the horizon, it’s now or never for the Colts.

Berkley: The Bears made a huge statement by winning by 20 over Rochester which features Alice Max. Berkley has balance and multiple players that can beat you at any night. A lot of good things have been going on for Coach Clay Shaver’s program, they host the districts which helps. If the Bears keep working and improving, they might be the most dangerous team not only in the division but sounds of 2021 in the postseason in Detroit could very well be possible.

Adams: The Highlanders have been very competitive for Coach Joe Malburg despite the record. Adams has been a weird team to figure out. Malburg has said that league play could be a turning point for his team and with how it’s set up they could do some damage. They were very competitive against Royal Oak and North Farmington but were blown out by the Red. Adams looks ready to make some noise.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks won four their last five games which is very pleasing for Coach Stacie Klump. If Troy Athens can keep playing this pace and being very competitive then the Red Hawks could win some games in league play and could be a possible dark horse in the Blue. There is a ton to like about Troy Athens.

Farmington: It has been a really rough 2023 for Coach Natalie Nowak and the Falcons. Farmington is really struggling, no sugar coating that. They have won one game this season over Ferndale University but they were blown out by Oxford. The Falcons need to find something or they could be in trouble in the division.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have lost five straight which is not a good sign for Coach Roy Christmon’s team at all. Injuries have hurt Avondale all season but the defense has been the biggest problem all season long. The Yellow Jackets need to improve defensively if they have any chance in the division.

Ferndale: The Eagles have been a surprise to some minds especially with their non conference slate going against Detroit Cass Tech, Dexter, and Macomb Dakota. Coach Keith Paris knows that he’s building for the postseason. They are the favorite to win the division but it’s all about the postseason for Ferndale.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have been really struggling. They have had five games where they have scored single digit points. Coach Brianna Rowe has been developing this team but the rebuild is taking longer than thought. Ferndale University needs to do something heading into league play.

Oak Park: The Knights have some issues scoring which has shown. They struggle to score at times which is common of a young team. If Coach Tyler Washington can get Oak Park to score more points, then they would be fine going forward especially in league play.

Pontiac: The Phoenix have lost three straight in 2024 which is very concerning for Coach Corray Lett and his team. With league play on the horizon it’s important for Pontiac to get their confidence back. If they don’t then they could be in some trouble.