Written Wednesday August 14th at 10:35 AM

These are the early projections for volleyball heading into the 2024 season.

Volleyball District Preview

https://saginawbay4650.blogspot.com/2024/06/volleyball-districts-are-out-2024.html

AROUND THE OAA TOP TEN TEAMS.

1. Clarkston

2. Adams

3. Lake Orion

4. Bloomfield Hills

5. Stoney Creek

6. Troy

7. Rochester

8. Troy Athens

9. Oxford

10. Groves

 

RED

 

Clarkston- The Wolves are loaded with proven talent. They have that experience getting to the Final Four under Coach Alison Smith. The key for Clarkston this season is not to get complacent, if they do then trouble could loom. The Wolves have had a lot of proven success but can they sustain is the key going forward.

Adams- The Highlanders were around 500 last season with a very young team. Expectations are high this season. They are a veteran heavy team and have a new coach in Nancy McKowen taking over the program. McKowen has been around Oakland County and brings a boatload of experience with her. She will look to keep the tradition alive at Adams. The Highlanders are a sleeper to watch in the State.

Lake Orion- The Dragons have been very competitive for years under Coach Tony Scavarda and they should be again this season. Lake Orion has the proven talent to make some noise in what should be a very tough division and they have a tough district as well. The Dragons could be a sleeper if they stay healthy.

Bloomfield Hills- The Blackhawks have had a ton of success as of late under Coach Jacob Paige. Bloomfield Hills expects to be in the mix in the Red this season with the proven talent he had coming back. The Blackhawks could also be a team that has a deep postseason run if things go right this season.

Stoney Creek- It was un Cougar like for Stoney Creek to struggle like they did last season but Coach Ross Talbot’s program has always been defined with what they do in the postseason. The Cougars should be better this season with program strength in the pipeline. Last season was a year to forget for Stoney Creek fans but this season they should be much better.

Troy- The Colts were up and down last season but they did have some big wins in the Red when they knocked off Lake Orion last season. Troy was your perfect Jekyll and Hyde team as mentioned this is something Coach Tom Viglant wants to get corrected heading into the season. The Colts are a mystery team to figure out so it will be very interesting to see what happens.

Rochester- The Falcons were an up and down team last season under legendary Coach William Gibbs. Rochester has had a strong summer and they have experienced what life in the Red brings. The Falcons should be a team to watch this season because of the experience and they could be a sleeper if things go right.

West Bloomfield- The Lakers were around 500 last season. They had a rough start but picked it up in the middle of the season but struggled a bit during the final stretches last season. Coach Elizabeth Ferguson should have her hands full moving up to the Red but some of the players West Bloomfield has has experienced what life in the Red is so that should help heading into a new division this season.

Seaholm- The Maples had a very challenging transition period under Coach Derrick Williams last season. Now it’s Williams second year and he’ll look to get Seaholm back on track this season. It will be very interesting to see how the Maples do this season with life in the Red.

 

WHITE

 

Troy Athens- The Red Hawks will look to take the next step heading into this season. Troy Athens should be a team that could make some noise in the White and maybe in the postseason this season. It has been a process for Coach Mary Kate Zinn with the Red Hawks but this could be the year that championship hardware might be in their future, we’ll see what happens.

Oxford- It was a season to forget last season for the Wildcats being under 500 having a new coach and playing in the always tough Red. Looking for a fresh start in a new division, Coach Noelle Zebb will look to have a bounce back season. Oxford should be in the thick of the White this season with the experienced learned from the rough goes last season. The Wildcats should be a player in this White this season.

Groves- The Falcons had a tough season record wise but to their defense they did play a very tough schedule. Coach Madison Clouse will look to get Groves back on track after a really rough year last season. The Falcons are a potential dark horse candidate in the White this season.

North Farmington- The Raiders were a team that was around 500 last season. They had some good wins and some really tough losses. North Farmington has been up and down as of late for Coach Michael Love and will look to have a bounce back season. The Raiders should be in the conversation as a possible darkhorse in the White.

Avondale- The Yellow Jackets had an off season last season. Coach Andrew Steff will look to get Avondale back on track. They should have some experience coming back which always helps. Consistency will be key for the Yellow Jackets heading into this season.

Berkley- It was a really rough season for the Bears adjusting to a new coach in Dakota Stanchuk last season. The Bears had a lot of young players after getting to the State Quarterfinals two years ago. Berkley should be much improved under Stanchuk but can it turn into results remains to be season

Royal Oak- The Ravens really struggled last season for Coach Ciara Schultz. Royal Oak was really young and they lost a ton of close games last season. They should be better after having a really rough season. The Ravens could be a team to watch.

Farmington- It was a struggle for the Falcons last season. Farmington has a new coach in Dan Englehardt taking over the program. The Falcons will be young this season and there has to be a transition period that has to happen during the season. Farmington will be going through that period.

 

BLUE

Ferndale- The Eagles have always been a consistent power and will be again this season. Ferndale has a new coach as Andrea Phillips takes over the program. The Eagles will have athletes and should be in the conversation. There will be a transition period and it has to happen during the season.

Ferndale University- It was a really odd year for the Eagles and Coach Kenton Maki. The Eagles were not consistent which showed in their record last season. Ferndale University is expected to make a big jump this season. The Eagles could be a team to watch.

Southfield Arts and Tech- The Warriors will have a new coach taking over the program in Rachel Watson. Watson will be tasked to send Southfield Arts and Tech to the next level this season. The Warriors have had proven athletes so it will be very interesting to see how the transition period goes for Southfield Arts and Tech this season.

Harper Woods- It was a rough year for the Pioneers who struggled late in the year last season. Harper Woods should be improved despite the struggles. If the Pioneers get some consistency after last season’s rough patch then Coach Lydia Doty-Faulk can turn things around and better results will come for Harper Woods.

Oak Park- The Knights were a Jekyll and Hyde team last season. Oak Park started off strong but struggled mid season and then got hot to close the season. Consistency will be the key for Coach Daimienne Goodlow if the Knights want to be competitive this season.

Pontiac- The Phoenix were an up and down team last season. Pontiac will look to have a better season and they have a new coach taking over at Pontiac. There will be a transition period but it will have to happen during the season.

Top Ten OAA Teams. These are NOT The Top 10 official rankings that comes in November, these are the rankings from who I’ve seen from the June camps.

Boys

1. Clarkston- Wolves have looked really impressive this summer especially John Kaul.

2. Avondale- Yellow Jackets are starting to gel this summer but can they gel in the Red???

3. Lake Orion- Dragons have played a really tough schedule this summer.

4. Oxford- Wildcats experience has really shown out this summer.

5. Groves- Falcons have looked really good against good competition this summer.

6. West Bloomfield- Lakers have been really impressive this summer.

7. Rochester- Max Mohl looks to be in mid season form this summer.

8. Bloomfield Hills- Blackhawks were up and down record wise this summer but they could be really dangerous this winter.

9. Troy- Defense has been really concerning this summer despite having Mason Parker.

10. Seaholm- Maples were shorthanded but they still have that same grit for new coach Spenser Adams.

 

Girls

1. Ferndale- Eagles look like they could make some noise this winter.

2. Stoney Creek- Cougars look like they haven’t missed a beat.

3. Clarkston- Wolves have played a really tough schedule this summer.

4. Royal Oak- Ravens have shown a ton of improvement this summer

5. Lake Orion- Dragons were solid but they still have some issues to address.

6. Troy- Colts depth really starting to show this summer.

7. Rochester- Falcons are adjusting to new coach Andy Tomlie’s system.

8. Seaholm- Maples have been up and down seeing them this summer.

9. Avondale- Yellow Jackets have shown improvement this summer.

10. Oxford- Wildcats going through a transition period under new coach Phil Dawson.

Written Monday June 17th at 10:20 PM

The Wildcats have their new girls basketball coach.

Oxford named Phil Dawson as their new girls basketball coach. The move was confirmed on the school’s coaches page.

Dawson is the third coach in two months. He takes over for Rachel Bryer who stepped down in April and Will Jones who took the job last month but stepped down a few days ago.

Dawson coached at Waterford Kettering with the boys basketball program for a time and then at Avondale for two years from 2016-2018 coaching their girls program. He went 31-10 coaching the Yellow Jackets.

Dawson will have will have Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Mia Champagne, Emma Buggs, Claire Bruski, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Katelyn Brockway, and Jaylen Jacobsen coming back.

The Wildcats are also in the Red with West Bloomfield, Ferndale, Stoney Creek, Clarkston, and Lake Orion. They are in a very tough district at Swartz Creek with Davison, Swartz Creek, Grand Blanc, Lapeer, and Holly.

Thoughts

It will be very interesting to see how Dawson handles the transition at Oxford. He is known for his run and gun style and is defense first. It will be very interesting to see what happens.

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

 

Here is the conformation.

https://oxfordstrongathletics.org/head-varsity-coaches/

Written Friday June 14th at 6:30 PM

The theme has been around the OAA when it comes to Girls Soccer is not to win the Red but to win the State Crown.

Adams did just that.

The Highlanders continued that trend giving the OAA their third straight State crown with a 2-0 win over Hartland on Friday afternoon at Michigan State earning their first State crown since 1999 and their third overall.

Bloomfield Hills won the State crown in 2022 and Stoney Creek last season. Both teams did not win the Red when they won the State crown.

Evelyn Kekhola scored the winning goal in 23 minute mark in the first half for Adams. The Highlanders added an insurance goal by Sadie Rogers to put the game out of reach with four minutes to go in the game in the second half.

The Eagles had 13 shots on goal with two corner kicks while the Highlanders had seven shots on goal with six corner kicks.

Adams went through a tough road beating Utica, Rochester, New Baltimore Anchor Bay, Troy, Plymouth Salem, and now Hartland in the postseason.

Congrats to the Highlanders, we’ll recap this game on the podcast Monday.

Written Tuesday June 11th at 10:45 AM

This article will be updated often with the most updated information

District 23 @ Farmington Hills Mercy

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

 

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Detroit Renaissance

DARKHORSE: Farmington

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is not a very strong district on paper. Farmington Hills Mercy has a ton of proven talent and is well coached under Loretta Vogel. Detroit Renaissance has athletes and could be competitive. Farmington should be better than last season for Coach Rebecca Kunselman. Southfield Arts and Tech has been up and down for Coach Ashlee Hampton. Oak Park could struggle this season for Coach Dameminee Goodlow. Overall this doesn’t look as strong as mentioned on paper, this looks like this is the Marlins district to lose.

 

District 25 @ Lakeland

WEST BLOOMFIELD

South Lyon

Lakeland

Walled Lake Western

Walled Lake Northern

Walled Lake Central

 

FAVORITE: Lakeland

NEXT: Walled Lake Northern

DARKHORSE:Walled Lake Central

EARLY THOUGHTS: This will be a very interesting district with a ton of proven teams. West Bloomfield will be an honorary member of the Lakes Valley Conference. The Lakers have a solid team for new Coach Elizabeth Ferguson. Walled Lake Northern has been solid along with Walled Lake Central and Walled Lake Western. South Lyon has been up and coming. Lakeland has been a standard bearer and has home court. This could be a very interesting district as mentioned.
 

District 26 @ Holly

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

OXFORD

Holly

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Oxford

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a really interesting district. Clarkston and Lake Orion really stand out in this district. The Wolves were in the Final Four the last two years. They are also well coached under Coach Alison Smith. The Dragons are well coached and have a nice group of young and experience under Coach Tony Scavarda. Oxford has been up and down as of late but they are well coached under Coach Noelle Zebb. Holly has been a consistent power in the Flint Metro League, they are well coached under Coach Cortney Stack. Waterford Kettering has had some really rough years but have improved under Coach Savannah Hewett. Waterford Mott really struggled last season. The Corsairs should have a rebound year for Coach Beth MacVicar. Overall this looks like it should be a very interesting district especially with two proven State powers in this district.
 

District 27 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

Orchard Lake St. Marys

 

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Orchard Lake St. Marys

DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is what in soccer terms is considered the “group of death.” These six teams are really proven programs. Orchard Lake St. Marys is well coached under Coach Molly Campbell. Adams has a new coach in Nancy McKowen taking over the program and her track record has been very successful. Stoney Creek has had a ton of success under Coach Ross Talbott. Rochester has been really improving under Coach Kirk Gibbs. Bloomfield Hills has really improved under Coach Jacob Paige. Avondale has been up and down under Coach Andrew Stepp. This should be a really interesting district, whoever gets hot at the right time should win this very competitive district.

 

 

District 28 @ Berkley

BERKLEY

NORTH FARMINGTON

GROVES

SEAHOLM

ROYAL OAK

Birmingham Marian

 

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Berkley

DARKHORSE: Groves

EARLY THOUGHTS: Birmingham Marian have been the defending Division One State Champs the last two years. They have a ton of proven experience coming back for Coach Mayssa Cook. Berkley has been very competitive and will be again under Coach Dakota Stainchuk. Royal Oak has been very competitive and should be again for Coach Ciara Schultz. North Farmington will always be in the mix for Coach Michael Love. Seaholm will always be formidable but they will have a new coach in Derick Williams taking over the program. Groves has been rising as of late under Coach Madison Close. Overall this district looks weak on paper but it will be very interesting to see how this district goes on Catalpa Drive.
 

District 31 @ Utica Eisenhower

TROY

TROY ATHENS

Utica Eisenhower

Utica Ford II

Utica

 

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Troy

DARKHORSE: Utica

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is shaping to be a really interesting district that is wide open. Troy Athens has been very proven under Coach Mary Kate Zinn. Troy has been very good and really consistent for Coach Tom Vigilant. Utica Eisenhower is well coached and has proven experience for Coach Caitlin Mahoney. Utica Ford II is well coached under Coach Randy Schantz. Utica has been very consistent under Coach Jeff Pratt. Overall the Eagles have to be the favorite because of home court but the Colts have been here before.
 

 

District 54 @ Detroit Henry Ford

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Detroit Jalen Rose Academy

Detroit Henry Ford

Detroit Lincoln King Academy

Detroit Old Redford

 

FAVORITE: Ferndale University

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Henry Ford

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district especially if the district final is Ferndale and Ferndale University which could happen. I’m not sold on the four Detroit teams, they could really struggle and they won’t play the competition as both Eagle teams are going to be. Ferndale University is well coached under Coach Kenton Maki while Ferndale doesn’t have a coach in there yet but they always have athletes. This should be a very interesting district to watch. 

District 57 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Eastpointe

Warren Lincoln

St. Clair Shores South Lake

FAVORITE: St. Clair Shores South Lake

NEXT: Harper Woods

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods Chandler Park

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is not a very strong district when looking at the teams. St. Clair Shores South Lake has been very strong in volleyball but Harper Woods could have a say. The Pioneers are well coached under Coach Lydia Doty-Faulk. Eastpointe has had some struggles along with Harper Woods Chandler Park. Warren Lincoln is the wildcard, the Abes could make some noise in this district. Overall this is not a strong district but the Cavaliers and Pioneers look to be the teams to watch.

My podcast-Volleyball districts are the third segment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0W5E9XcbKf0

Written Tuesday June 11th at 1:45 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 Franklin, 6. Livonia Churchill.

FAVORITE: North Farmington

NEXT: Farmington

DARKHORSE: Redford Thurston

PLAYER ON SPOT: Greg Grays-Farmington

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. North Farmington was in the Division One State Finals 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 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 Coach James McCulloh. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of proven experience in Tyler Hall, Jackson Stoops, Isiah Iacoben, Joe Berry, Jack Woods, Antionio Aiaz, Jonah Waligora, and Iyran Altrack coming back for new Coach Jack Matson. Livonia Franklin has 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 Coach Brian Bates. Farmington will look to have a bounce back season after injuries really derailed their season. The Falcons have Darnell Cochrane, Randy Rice, and Greg Grays coming back for Coach Byron Johnson. This district could be a battle of Farmington district final which would be very interesting if it happens.

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. Oak Park, 4. Bloomfield Hills, 5. Seaholm, 6. Southfield Arts and Tech.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

DARKHORSE: Oak Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ace Walters-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, and 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 and Geon Hutchins coming back for Coach Durrand Sheppard. Seaholm has a new system and a younger team. The Maples have Everett Wertz coming back for new coach Spenser Adams. Southfield Arts and Tech will look to have a bounce back season. The Warriors have Cameron Dickerson and Trent Green coming back for Coach Terrance Porter. Bloomfield Hills is an up and coming team. The Blackhawks have D’Ron Mason, Philip Muhammad, Carter Hartfield, 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 Ace Walters, David Williams, Elijah Williams, Jacob Lamb, Jeremiah Caffey, John Lilley, Logan Hahama, and Trevor Smith coming back for Coach Ricky Palmer. This district looks like it’s Birmingham Brother Rice’s district to lose but you never know.
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. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven talent. The Lakers have De’Avion Thomas, Corey Pittman, Brendin Jones, Artis Hicks, Terrance Lowe, Ryan Hood, David Lewis, Jamad Williams, Drew Wilson, 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, 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 26 @ Lapeer

OXFORD

Lapeer

Davison

Grand Blanc

Swartz Creek

Holly

 

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

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Davison

DARKHORSE: Oxford

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 and look to be the favorite again. The Bobcats have Donnie Huddleson, Isiah McCree, Larryeon Subblett, Malachi Evans, Matthew Evans, Omar Young, Caseton Sendry, Angelo Diedalis, and Lawerence Walker coming back for Coach Dorence Martin. Davison was upset by Holly in the district semifinals last season. The Cardinals have Greg Lawson, Cortez Porter, and Jackson Bowden coming back for Coach Mike Williams. Lapeer really struggled last season. The Lightning have Will Fisher coming back for new coach Jack Chittle. Chittle comes from North Branch and will look to leave his mark. Holly has had a ton of success for Coach Steve DeHart. Swartz Creek has been up and down. 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. The Wildcats have Jake Champagne, Drew Cady, Robert George, Nolan Mauser, Colatrane Hudson, Brennan Elling, Parker Bennion, Cayden Smith, 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 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Avondale

DARKHORSE: Waterford Mott

PLAYER ON SPOT: Max Jansenvanvuren-Waterford Mott

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season when Clarkston won the district over Waterford Mott. The Wolves are the early favorite. They have Hayden Flavin, Cole Charter, Jon Kaul, and Quinn Rosenburg coming back for Coach Tim Waslik. Avondale has battled with Clarkston including in last season’s district semifinals where it was a 38-37 Wolves win. The Yellow Jackets have Jordan Bush, Jordan Clayton, DJ Moody, Makao Carroll, Isaac Gordon, Javontae Anderson, Braylin Grandberry, and Justin Greer-Sykes coming back 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 last season. The Corsairs have Gavin Ort, JaKobe Manyweathers, Max Jansenvanvuren, Damari Stephens, Greg White, Tory Robinson, Nate Lewis, Devin Lewis, and Austin Sheets coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson. Lake Orion was very young last season and look to have a strong bounce back year this season. The Dragons have Zach Parks, Ryan Rocheleau, Gabe Scott, Nick Galben, Jakobe Louris, and MJ Long coming back for Coach Jose Andrades. This should be a fun district, four teams have a great chance to win 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. Romeo, 6. Utica.

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Utica Eisenhower

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Tyree Smith-Stoney Creek

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season. 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 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 for Coach Nick Evola. Utica Eisenhower had their ups and down last season. The Eagles will have Trey Richardson, Randall Rice, Alex Edgar, John Hardiman, and Maddox Moore coming back for a new coach. Romeo has been a really interesting story especially in the postseason, this is something that they need to correct this season. 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 loss to Utica. The Highlanders are a young team but they have proven experience in Colin Langdon, Clark Langdon, 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 Beckman, 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 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Berkley

DARKHORSE: Troy Athens

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jack Soboka-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. 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 seem to 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  Warren Mott had a really tough year winning three games last season. The Mauraders 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 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. Detroit Osborn, 5. Hazel Park, 6. Ferndale University.

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. The Abes have DaMarion Bozeman, Markus Blackwell. Moses Blackwell, Chris Morgan, and Oshay Johnson coming back for Coach Wendell Henry. Ferndale won the Division Two State crown two years ago and 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 evin 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 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 61 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Center Line

 

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

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Eastpointe

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jyshawn Lucas-Center Line

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. Eastpointe won the district crown last season and has home court this season. The Shamrocks Aaron Bailey and Dalton Davis have coming back for Coach Michael Railey. Harper Woods will have a very young team this season. The Pioneers have Miron Bayor 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. 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 Eastpointe and Harper Woods could have strong says in this district.
 

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

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

NEXT: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

DARKHORSE: Pontiac

PLAYER ON SPOT: JJ Claudio-Pontiac

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 in the district 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 Irish and the Yellow Jackets are the favorites but you can never ever count out the Phoenix.