by orionontv | Feb 6, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday February 5th at 12:40 PM
Here are the updated Girls Basketball districts.
District 4 @ Lapeer (Winner heads to Flushing to play District 3)
OXFORD
Grand Blanc
Lapeer
Davison
Holly
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford.
FAVORITE: Grand Blanc
NEXT: Oxford
DARKHORSE: Davison
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Jada McCree-Grand Blanc
UPDATED THOUGHTS: When I saw this district back in June I couldn’t believe it. Oxford is in a district with Grand Blanc for a third straight year??? I don’t know what my good friend Dan Brown at Chicago Brothers Pizza has to say about this but knowing him he won’t be happy. They have proven experience. The Wildcats have Peyton Richter, Nevaeh Wood, Allison Hufstedlar, Sophia Rabb, Brady Elling, Avery Feeney, Lexi Yankee, and Miranda Wyniemko coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. Oxford has had a very strong season and is currently fighting for the White crown with North Farmington however the Wildcats lost Wood to an ACL injury which is a huge loss for them. Lapeer has really struggled but they have made some strides as a program. The Lightning have Mallory Butterfield, Rosemary Kollar, Mya McKenna, MaKynna Saltzman, Laura Brown, Alexis Norman, Alida Wing, and Abigail Francis for new Coach Evan Bell. They have lost seven of their last nine games since the New Year started. Davison has really struggled this season. The Cardinals have Gracie Little, Lillian Kish, Gabi Stevens, Marionna Dixon, Skyler Miller, Katie O’ Connor, and Lily Morey for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. They really have struggled with consistency which is not a good sign heading into the postseason. Grand Blanc has gotten red hot at the right time. They have won 12 of their last 13 games with their only loss being to a very good Flint Carman Ainsworth team. The Bobcats have Chelsea Bishop, Jada McCree, Rayven McQueen, Ali Anderson, Kendyle Hall, and Malaya Brown for Coach Mike McCay. McCree and Bishop have really been the catalysts for Grand Blanc rolling right now. Holly went winless last season but has picked up some good wins. The Bronchos have Alana Simmons, Annabelle Basham, Audrey Combs, McKenna McGhee, Morgan Fluckey, Annalease Thiese, and Mollina Adams for Coach Ben Varner. When looking at this district, the Bobcats are still favored but I have a funny feeling that Oxford is not that far off despite the two blowout losses to Grand Blanc in the last two years, the third time is always the charm and it could be for the Wildcats.
District 5 @ Rochester (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 7)
ROCHESTER
STONEY CREEK
ADAMS
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Rochester, 2. Stoney Creek
FAVORITE: Rochester
NEXT: Stoney Creek
DARKHORSE: Utica Eisenhower
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ava Williams-Rochester
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This is a district that has the same teams from last season except for Lake Orion which moved to a different district. Rochester should be the early favorite to win this district however they have not gotten past the district finals in the last four years. There is hope to change that this season and they have home court. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kiley Robinson, Natalie Rayce, Ava Williams, Alania Webb, Stevie Norgrove, and Abby Pleasant for Coach Bill Thurston. Rochester has not changed a beat and is having a really strong season. Stoney Creek is another team that stands out. They should be motivated after having a disappointing postseason last year. The Cougars have Sarah LaPrarie, Emily Flynn, Mia Carson, Merrick Schwalbach, and Lily Solek for Coach Kellen James. Stoney Creek has had a good year so far this season. Adams has really struggled this season with a lot of it being youth and inexperience but things are on the rise for the program. The Highlanders have Samantha Blaine, Olivia Marcial, Taylor Green, AuJayna Howard, Jin Ah Jasper, Morgan McPherson, Nicole Kedzierski, and Skyler Slezak for Coach Joe Malburg. Utica Eisenhower would like another shot at Rochester in the postseason. They have been rolling winning seven of their last nine games. The Eagles have Deyvn Raymond, Autumn Reed, Maggie McGuire, Layna Sturza, Jennifer McWerthy, Ava Stack, Marianna Stojcevski, Abby Klaft, Abby Nezich, and Lexi Horattas for Coach Cliff Piper. Romeo had a rough year last season but there is some optimism. The Bulldogs have Eva Hill, Ava McMillan, Clare Carmody, Elise Rilley, Amanda Kitchen, Jacquine LeBlanc, Gabriella Matina, and Rachel Miller for Coach Ron LeBlanc whom has done a very good job with Romeo in his first year coaching varsity. This district looks to be very interesting. Utica Eisenhower leads Stoney Creek for the second spot in the MPR and whomever loses out has to play on that Monday. Three teams standout but anything is possible.
District 6 @ Clarkston (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 8)
CLARKSTON
LAKE ORION
PONTIAC
Waterford Kettering
Waterford Mott
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Lake Orion, 2. Clarkston
FAVORITE: Lake Orion
NEXT: Clarkston
DARKHORSE: No One
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ava Hernandez-Clarkston
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This will be a very interesting district. There are two teams that really stand out on paper and have proved it during the season. Clarkston lost Maddie Skroupski and Izzy Hadley from their regional final team last season. They have some talent and home court in the district. The Wolves have Ava Hernandez, Mia Zorski, Emily Valencia, Kierra Tolmie, Ellery Hernandez, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Anna Thomas, Claire Walker and Elliana Robak for Coach Aaron Goodnough however Zorski and Thomas are out for the season with ACL injuries. Lake Orion was in it with Clarkston for three and a half quarters in their regional semifinal against Clarkston last season. The Dragons are loaded with proven experience and have beaten Clarkston twice in the regular season but always in sports the third time is always the hardest. They have Chloe Wiegers, Maddie Ebbert, Kylie Heck, Taylor Dinda, Audrey Wischmeyer, Ryann Pawalcyzk, Grace Sullivan, Ali May, Fontana Blackney, Jodie McCaffery, Charlotte Peplowski, Alana McGinnis for Coach Bob Brydges. Lake Orion has had a really strong season despite injuries to Izzy Wotlimski and McCaffery. Pontiac has really struggled this season. The Phoenix have not gotten over 20 points this season. Anything is possible in the postseason for first year coach Corray Lett. Waterford Kettering has been very disappointing this season. They have not gotten over 30 points this season. The Captains have Malyanna Schoof, Ellie Dropps, Payton Amshay, Bella Labo, Gracela Lovett, Abby Hayword, Avery Topinka, and Nora Hernandez for first year coach Erik Parker. Waterford Mott was very young last season but they have really struggled to score other than the Pontiac game and win games this season. The Corsairs have Makayla Henderson, Karli Koskinen, Juliana Lemis, Izzy Esquivel, Madison Winters, and Emma Paschke for longtime Coach Michelle Sklar. This district could go green and white or blue and yellow and this season has shown that point.
District 7 @ Lakeland (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 5)
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Lakeland
Walled Lake Northern
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Western
PROJECTED MPR: 1. West Bloomfield, 2. Walled Lake Northern
FAVORITE: West Bloomfield
NEXT: Walled Lake Northern
DARKHORSE: Lakeland
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Destiny Washington-West Bloomfield
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This district is where the defending Division One State Champs will begin their State title defense in White Lake. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven experience and has been battle tested. The Lakers have Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Kendall Hendrix, Sydney Hendrix, Destiny Washington, Ava Lord, Jaylee Head, Jada Vaughn, Gabrielle Hale, and Gabby Williams for Coach Darrin McAllister. West Bloomfield has dominated in blowout fashion this season with their only losses to South Bend Washington, Indiana and Ypsilanti Arbor Prep. Lakeland made the regional semifinals last season but they have been around 500 this season with a very young team. The Eagles have Kira Brower, Molly Marino, and Parker Ostach for Coach Mike Leithelm. Walled Lake Western was very young last season but has been very disappointing this season. The Warriors have Emma Hoffmeyer, Emma Cassatta, Bella Yaldoo, Kelsey Beck, Makenna Krzisnik, Evana Gjelaj, Ryan Geisler, and Ryah Dewey for Coach Kelly Costello. Walled Lake Northern is a very interesting program. The Knights were very young last season but they have really improved this season. Walled Lake Northern has made a ton of strides this season and is currently battling South Lyon East for the Lakes Valley Crown. They have Amal Younes, Addison Porter, Laney Jakubowski, Layne Biggers, Reese Nemeth, Natalie Wilbert, Macie Hunter, and Aleena McCullough for first year Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was very young last season but they have been having a rough year this season. The Vikings have Jaden Henderson, Amelia Maktari, Carys Lucas, Kyeli Anderson, Savannah Breitwesier, Angelina Virga, Lillian Miracle, Maddie Schopf, Jordyn Harris, and Grace Mathson coming back for Coach Robert Schopf. This district looks to be West Bloomfield’s to lose but Walled Lake Northern could give them some fits in this district.
District 25 @ Berkley (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 27)
BERKLEY
OAK PARK
ROYAL OAK
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit Mumford
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Berkley
FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Berkley
DARKHORSE: Royal Oak
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Nevaeh Otis-Detroit Renaissance
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district with a ton of storylines. Berkley pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the State by beating Detroit Renaissance in the district finals last season but the Phoneix are a much different team this season. The Bears have home court in this district but struggled early but have since rebounded and have been making some noise as of late. They have some proven experience in Jillian Gomes, Mya Jones, Ava Beard, Hailey Kirkwood, Addison Hambright, Maddi Bonsall, Avery Wintergarden, Maleve Nolan, and Sammi Withrow for Coach Cody Feltner. Royal Oak has been much improved from last season. The Ravens have Celcia Irwin, Lydia Dickens, Anna Waterstredt, Lucy Freytag, Emily Walden, Emiliee Austin, Maddie Lawrence, and Hannah Sanders for Coach Brian Sopota. Royal Oak has been up and down recently. Detroit Mumford has been playing very well and they have a very talented player in Samayra Jefferson for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance has a lot of proven experience and talent along with being battle tested. They are still unbeaten and should be motivated after their upset loss in the district finals as mentioned last season. The Phoenix have Immani Johnson, Christian Sanders, Nevaeh Otis, Anaya Hardy, Victoria Gambles, Amaya Esponal, Makayla Coleman, Sterling Gooden, Makayla Johnson, Kiyla Brooks, Haramonie Bolton, Jaebrian Autry, and Nyana Pharr for first year Coach DeShawn Wood. Oak Park really struggled last season but they have really improved lately. The Knights could be a sleeper for Coach Chantelle Corson. This district should be very interesting to watch at Berkley.
District 26 @ North Farmington (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 28)
NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Farmington Hills Mercy
Detroit Henry Ford
Livonia Stevenson
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. North Farmington
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARKHORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Sela Lefler-North Farmington
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district. This looks to be a two team final but maybe a third or fourth team could emerge. Farmington Hills Mercy is the early favorite and for good reason. The Marlins won 18 games last season and have a lot of proven experience. They have Maya White, Fran DeNardo, Aizyn Albanese, Alison Smiley, Lillian DeJong, Ava Lorraine, Caroline Butcher, Lauren Smiley, and Emily Walker for Coach Gary Morris. Farmington Hills Mercy has been rolling despite losing two of their last three games. Farmington could be a sleeper in this district. They have had a good year but they have gotten most of their wins in the Blue. The Falcons have Yasmine Thorpe, Jayla Silver, Brooke Farrington, Annalin Nardelli, and Clarissa Hankins for Coach Laura Guzman. Southfield Arts and Tech might be the most dangerous team coming into this district. The record is very deceiving but they have been playing much better lately. The Warriors have proven experience in Christian Banks, Jayla Austin, Kamira Page, and Jordan Ushery for Coach Shiquita Coltrane. North Farmington should challenge Farmington Hills Mercy for the district crown and has home court. They are unbeaten and look to be in firm control of the White. The Raiders have proven experience in Sela Lefler, Penelope Creary, Asiyah Jihad, Eliza Muller, Amarriah Merriweather, Hannah Hart, Sam Hoffer, and Halee Rogers for Coach Jeff Simpson. Detroit Henry Ford won 10 games last season for Coach Chevelle O’Brien. Livonia Stevenson should be a player. The Spartans have Gracie Shahu and Scarlett Webster for Coach Kareem Smart. This is shaping up to be a very interesting district as mentioned with four teams standing out but it could be a Marlins/Raiders district final and if that’s the case then that could go down to the wire at the NogoDome.
District 27 @ Birmingham Marian (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 25)
GROVES
SEAHOLM
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
TROY
Birmingham Marian
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Bloomfield Hills
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARKHORSE: Seaholm
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Mackenzie Swanson-Birmingham Marian
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. There really isn’t no clear favorite to win this district. Groves has been much improved despite their recent struggles. The Falcons have Kaitlyn Sanders, Cira Racco, Lilly Gallagher, Cameron Little, and Nevaeh McCay for Coach Alison Hidey. Troy comes to this district after making it to the State Quarterfinals last season. It has been a struggle for them this season with injuries, youth, and inexperience. The Colts have Charlotte Gillion, Avery Allen, Shaivani Angadi, Carly Higginbottom, Katie Morris, Aly Matuza, Raegan Zeiter, and Diamond Prince for Coach Julius Porter. Seaholm had a very strong season last year but they have really struggled to find their stride this season. The Maples have Shay Manchester, Taylor Hartwig, Lola Weber, Olivia Davis, Kate Anderson, Clara Guffy, Emma Weber, Mary Gumbas, and Anne Boogerian for Coach Chris Manchester. Bloomfield Hills has been much improved and are in firm control of the Blue. The Blackhawks have Ashley Forner, Brianna Young, Grace Main, and Ruby Smith coming back for Coach Kristen Massey. The schedule hasn’t been the greatest with them in the Blue but they have three tough non conference teams in Stoney Creek, Walled Lake Western, and Birmingham Marian this season. It has been a very tough for former assistant Michelle Lindsay with Birmingham Marian’s recent struggles. Lindsay took over for longtime coach Mary Cicerone whom retired this past offseason. The Mustangs have home court in this district but as mentioned they have struggled. They have Mackenzie Swanson, Ella Ervin, Abby Landa, Molly McLeod, and Charlie Bingham for Lindsay. The district could be a three team race but Birmingham Marian for now is the favorite.
District 28 @ Avondale (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 26)
AVONDALE
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Utica
Utica Ford II
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Utica Ford II, 2. Troy Athens
FAVORITE: Utica Ford II
NEXT: Troy Athens
DARKHORSE: Utica
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ellie Musto-Troy Athens
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district that features a combination of Oakland and Macomb County schools. Avondale had a ton of ups and downs last season and have really carried over into this season to find any consistency. The Yellow Jackets have Lily Titus, Madison Manyweathers, Khila Bradley, Amaria Daniels, Takera Williams, and Kaliyah Carroll for Coach Roy Christmon. Troy Athens is very interesting. They have had an up and down year after a very strong start this season. The Red Hawks have Ellie Musto, Rebekah Delia, Lily Batzold, Fiona Wingblad, Kaci Mersier, Abby Malone, Alex Link, and Skylear Emerson for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Sterling Heights Stevenson had a great year last season under former Rochester boys basketball coach Vance Kirkwood. The Titans won 11 games under Kirkwood in his only season in Sterling Heights but he left to coach Boys Basketball at Mount Clemens and have really struggled under first year coach Madison Ristovski. Utica has done very well in the past however they have been very disappointing this season. The Chieftains have Cameron McConachie, Sarah Fromm, Natalie Shtogrin, and Katelyn Shtogrin for Coach Tom McDonald. Utica Ford II had a very good year winning 16 games last season and have had a better year this season winning the Macomb Area Red crown. The Falcons have Sydney Garon, Lilah Earl, Madison Bettys, Kailee Gillich, Anayya Davis, and Rachel Riepma for Coach Matt Joseph. Utica Ford II is the favorite but Troy Athens could have a strong say about this.
District 30 @ Grosse Pointe North (Winner heads to Macomb Dakota to play District 32)
HARPER WOODS
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Roseville
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grosse Pointe North, 2. Grosse Pointe South
FAVORITE: Grosse Pointe North
NEXT: Grosse Pointe South
DARKHORSE: St. Clair Shores Lakeview
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Annabel Ayrault-Grosse Pointe North
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This is a very tough district with every team winning double digit games last season. There are two teams that made the regionals that are in this district. Grosse Pointe North is the favorite in this district and for good reason. They have had The Norsemen have Jenna Winowiecki, Annabel Ayrault, Mia Stephanoff, Charlotte Juilen, Natalie Babcock, and Sophie Boroski for Coach Gary Bennett. St. Clair Shores Lakeview made the regional semifinals last season but they been up and down this season. The Huskies have Zion Harris, Camara Knighton, Jillian Ostrowski, Mackenzie Stein, Isabella Tiseo, Maria Decker, Ava Prasnjak, Samantha Guciardo, Autumn Wirick, Alexis Pottu, Me’Ahna Owoiya, and Madison Geib for Coach Joe Charrette. Roseville has really struggled this season. They are 1-6 in their last seven games. The Panthers have Aaniya Jordan, Saniah Love, Dionni John, Cheyenne Hrelja-Hill, Haleigh Olivas, Michelle Huffman, Reyvan Frank, Rihanna Reeves, Keyonna Scorpio, Presley Rubio, and Sydney Masterson for Coach Andy Houghton. Grosse Pointe South is a traditional power however they unusually struggled winning four games last season but is having a much better year this season. The Blue Devils have Maddy Benard, Bella Deveroux, Madison Duff, Olivia Dimuzio, Ava Sjorgen, Chloe Power, and Karter Richards for Coach Kevin Richards. Harper Woods comes from Division Two into this district after having a really good season last season. The Pioneers have a lot of experience which helps and has had a strong season. They have Kendall Kelsey, Mya Duncan, Lauren Peterson, and Clearia Peterson for first year coach Anthony Brown. Harper Woods and Grosse Pointe South are battling for the second MPR spot. This should be a very tough district with a lot of proven programs.
District 58 @ Hazel Park (Winner heads to Hazel Park to play District 60)
FERNDALE
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY
Hazel Park
Warren Lincoln
Warren Fitzgerald
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Warren Fitzgerald, 2. Hazel Park
FAVORITE: Warren Fitzgerald
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARKHORSE: Ferndale
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Jada Buchanan-Ferndale
UPDATED THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district at Hazel Park. It has been more of a redemption for two Macomb Area Conference teams while the two Oakland County schools have struggled a little bit. Ferndale University has really struggled this season under first year coach Brianna Rowe. The Eagles made the district finals falling to Birmingham Detroit Country Day last season. Ferndale had things very rough last season but they are doing much better. The Eagles have Jada Buchanan, Angel Ajonouma, Briunna Young, Tarriyah Early, Jaila Pouncey, and Jayla Martin for returning coach Keith Paris. Hazel Park has home court and has been building their program recently. The Vikings won 11 games last season for Coach Dakota Ogles and have recently won the Macomb Area Conference Bronze crown for the first time since 2008 when they were in the OAA. Warren Lincoln struggled winning four games last season and the Abes has really struggled again this season. Warren Fitzgerald has been a very good success story this season. They won one game last season but have managed to turn things around and won the Macomb Area Silver crown this season. The Spartans have Janiya Williams and Mariah Anderson for Coach JuWan Shakespear. I’m seeing a two team district between the Spartans and Vikings but Ferndale could be a sleeper to watch in this district.
by orionontv | Jan 30, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Tuesday June 21st at 11:15 PM
Updated Sunday January 15th at 8:00 PM
Hello to everyone, these are the Boys Basketball Districts.
If Basketball coaches want their thoughts on the districts posted on the blog, just DM me on Twitter and I’ll get them on there.
This article will be updated very often.
District 6 @ Clarkston (Winner heads to Fenton to play District 8 Winner)
CLARKSTON
PONTIAC
AVONDALE
Waterford Kettering
Waterford Mott
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Clarkston, 2. Waterford Mott
FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Waterford Mott
DARKHORSE: Avondale
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: John Kaul-Clarkston
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season. I’m still at a loss for words with how Clarkston didn’t get the top seed in the district last season and Waterford Mott ended up getting that spot. They should be the favorite in this district with home court and proven experience. The Wolves have Brayden Wiley, Desman Stephens, Brody Kosin, John Kaul, Zach Scherler, Cole Church, Zach Pflidger, and Cavanaugh Diton coming back for Coach Tim Waslik. Waterford Mott won the Lakes Valley after winning 17 games. They had the top seed and home court coming into the district but the Corsairs fell to Clarkston in the district finals last season. The Corsairs have Dequantre Warren, Jacoby Menyweathers, Octave Lawerence, Davon Warren, Kalieb Osborn, Devin Lewis, Davis Ellis, and Jake Martin coming back for Coach Sean Moore. Waterford Kettering has really struggled in the last five years. They will have a new coach which will be their fifth in six years but it’s a familiar face to the OAA and the Lakes Valley Conference. The Captains have Tommy Knibbs, Isac Moore, Will Campbell, Kevin Meredith, and Christopher Bowman coming back for former Oxford and Walled Lake Western girls basketball Coach Steve Emert. Pontiac will look to have a bounce back year after really struggling last season. The Phoenix have Davion Hall, Tyree Long, and Carter Douglas coming back for Coach Dameon O’Neil. Avondale has really improved and have played really well in the summer. The Yellow Jackets have Malik Adams, Denzel White, Tyler Prentice, Justin Sykes, Terry Daniel, DJ White, Issac Gordon, Jeremiah Phillips, and Darren Pagel coming back for Coach Pat Clancy. This should be a rematch of the district finals from last season between the Wolves and the Corsairs but anything is possible.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district has no changes thus far. Clarkston has been living on the edge lately. Waterford Mott is still the Wolves biggest challenger. Avondale is still the sleeper despite their inconsistencies. Waterford Kettering is rebuilding under Coach Steve Emert. Pontiac is really struggling. Other than that no changes in this district.
District 5 @ Utica Eisenhower (Winner heads to Fenton to play District 7 Winner)
LAKE ORION
STONEY CREEK
ROCHESTER
ADAMS
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Adams, 2. Lake Orion
FAVORITE: Adams
NEXT: Lake Orion
DARKHORSE: Utica Eisenhower
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ethan Mychajulk-Utica Eisenhower
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season however it will be in a much smaller gym in Utica Eisenhower than it was at Romeo. Could this district be Macomb County revenge??? It looks like it but Oakland County could spoil things like what happened last season when Lake Orion played Adams in the district finals. Utica Eisenhower really improved turning things around during the later half of the year however they fell to the Dragons in the district semifinals last season. The Eagles have proven experience and have really improved this summer. Utica Eisenhower should be the favorite in the Macomb Area Conference White this season. The Eagles have Ethan Mychajulk, Braden Buza, Preston Crumm, Jackson McHale, Hayden Bills, Ethan Barker, Matthew Elias, and Kyle O’Reilly coming back for Coach Tom Antishin. Romeo won the Macomb Area White last season but was blown out by Utica Eisenhower in the first round on their home floor. They have gotten past the first game once in the last four years (2021-Oxford.) The Bulldogs have Tim Kewey and Aiden Tague coming back for Coach Marv Cushingberry but someone has to step up for Romeo to take the next step. Stoney Creek really struggled last season but they have made some changes this offseason. The Cougars have Peyton Rummler, Tre Walker, Leo Kent, Tommasso Sincola, and Jonah McCay coming back for new coach Jeff Olind. Olind came from Warren Mott this offseason. It will be very interesting to see what he does with his new program this season. Adams should be the favorite despite losing a lot of proven experience from winning the district crown last season. The Highlanders have looked very good this summer. Adams has Brady Prieskorn, William Gee, and Peter Karakasis coming back for Coach Jarret Thomas. Rochester should be very interesting this season. They lost a ton of proven experience after falling to Adams in the district semifinals last season. The Falcons have Alex Bueno, Jaiden Bolden, Elijah Kalaj, Joe Lulgjaraj, Grant Calcagno, Rex Matoud, and Kharmani Potts coming back for Coach Nick Evola. Lake Orion is the sleeper despite making the district finals last season. When they have that chip on the shoulder they are very dangerous. The Dragons have Nate Havrilla, DJ Morrow, Kevin Tobe, and Blake Liddell coming back for Coach Jose Andreadas. This is a very interesting district as mentioned, anything is possible.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: Big changes in this district. Lake Orion is better than thought with the Dragons current play. The loss to Adams was without their two starting guards. The Highlanders are still favored in this district and they just got Brady Prieskorn back. Utica Eisenhower has struggled despite the experience they have back. Romeo has been on and off recently. Rochester has been very inconsistent but they have not had their best big in Khamanni Potts. Stoney Creek has really struggled with the transition to new coach Jeff Olind. This district looks like a three team district for now but two when healthy really stand out.
District 4 @ Grand Blanc (Winner heads to Flushing to play District 3 Winner)
OXFORD
Grand Blanc
Davison
Lapeer
Flint Kearsley
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Davison
FAVORITE: Grand Blanc
NEXT: Davison
DARKHORSE: Oxford
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Greg Lawson-Davison
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district but it was at Davison last season. Grand Blanc has a ton of storylines. They have a new coach in Tory Jackson. Jackson takes over for Mike Thomas whom left for East Kentwood this offseason. He has a ton of coaching experience at Bay City John Glenn and in the Saginaw area. Thomas led the Bobcats to two State Final appearances, winning the Division One State crown in 2021. They fell to Warren De LaSalle in the Division One State Finals last season. It will be very interesting to see how the transition goes at Grand Blanc. The Bobcats have Robert Williams, Tae Boyd, Amonte Allen-Johnson, Micah Welch, Anthony Perdue, RJ Taylor, Bryce O’Mara, Trevon Johnson, Jake Lindquist, Joe Nemeck, and Donnine Huddleston coming back for Jackson. Lapeer should be very interesting. They had a really hot start but a cold finish last season. The Lightning have Owen Boyle, Matt Sierakowski, Alex Wells, and Matthew Smith coming back for Coach Greg McGeary. Davison has a very talented young core that saw a ton of ups and downs last season. They have really improved this summer. The Cardinals have Greg Lawson, Teon Armstrong, Buddy Williams, Zach Papadakis, Henry Carstaphen, and Braylen Himmelin coming back for Coach Mike Williams. Flint Kearsley should be very interesting. They relied heavily on the three point shot. The Hornets have Neely Dakari, Donovan Harrington, and Julienne Brandt coming back for Coach Joe Corkan. Oxford could be a sleeper in the district despite making the district finals last season. I wonder what Chicago Brothers Pizza Owner Dan Brown has to say about this district??? The Wildcats have Dominic Cassisse, Lucas Botette, Jake Champagne, Jay Cady, Kyle DiMalanta, and Dylan Stone coming back for Coach Steve Laidlaw. Champagne has really had a strong summer for Oxford. Grand Blanc is the favorite but watch for Oxford and Davison as both teams could give the Bobcats some fits.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: No changes in this district. Grand Blanc is still the favorite and has home court. Davison has been solid as well. Oxford is the most dangerous team in this district with their play. Lapeer has really been struggling. Flint Kearsley has also been struggling as well. This is a three team district but the Bobcats really stand out.
District 25 @ Berkley (Winner heads to Troy to play District 27 Winner)
BERKLEY
ROYAL OAK
OAK PARK
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit Mumford
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, 2. Oak Park
FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
NEXT: Oak Park
DARKHORSE: Detroit Renaissance
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Sonny Wilson-Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season but it will be at Berkley instead of Royal Oak. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit looks prime to repeat as district champs with their recent history and playing in the tough Catholic League. They made the regional finals falling to fellow Catholic League rival Orchard Lake St. Marys last season. The Cubs have Sonny Wilson, Tarrance Reed, Juilan Robinson, David Herron, Xavier Johnson, Zavier Banks, Sebestian Randolph, and Branden Walker coming back for Coach Tim Connely. They have Leroy Blyden in the program as well. Detroit Mumford really had a rough year winning six games last season. The Mustangs should be much improved for Coach Anthony Woods this season. Detroit Renaissance could be a possible sleeper. They won 15 games but fell to the Cubs in the district semifinals last season. The Phoenix have Lance Stone, Dion Stinson, Jayson Gamblin, and Jacob White coming back for Coach John White. Berkley can’t seem to get a break when it comes to the district assignments despite getting home court. They are a possible sleeper in this district. The Bears have David Rolands, Tamir Runekvich, Riley Shafritz, Jacob Sheriff, Luke Winter, and Ian Smith coming back for Coach Joe Sermo. Oak Park is a very interesting team and in a really interesting spot. They will be looking to get that elusive district crown after falling to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit in the last two years (district semifinals in double overtime, district finals last season.) The Knights have Jason Harns, Robert Smith, Geon Hutchins, Kevin Tolliver, Soloman White, and LuJuan Holliday coming back for Coach Durand Sheppard. Royal Oak is another sleeper in this district. They had a very strong year last season. The Ravens have Camden Clark, Dylan Hoffman, Davis Arbeiter, Brady Schrem, Rashad Wilson, and Nick Hoffman coming back for Coach Aaron Smith. This district has the makings of very similar to last season.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: Oak Park moves into the NEXT category. I’ve been impressed with the Knights play as of late. They need to overcome their Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit problem. The Cubs are still the favorite to win this district. Royal Oak is much improved. Berkley is as dangerous as anyone right now. They are a sleeper in this district. Detroit Renaissance is also solid as well. Detroit Mumford has no chance right now. This district will be tough to say the least. I think five teams have a shot to win this district.
District 26 @ North Farmington (Winner heads to Troy to play District 28 Winner)
NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Detroit Henry Ford
Livonia Stevenson
PROJECTED MPR: 1. North Farmington, 2. Detroit Henry Ford
FAVORITE: North Farmington
NEXT: Detroit Henry Ford
DARKHORSE: Livonia Stevenson
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Landon Williams-North Farmington
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a somewhat of a new district. Detroit Henry Ford comes into this district while Redford Thurston got moved to a different district. North Farmington should be the favorite after winning the district and making it to the regional semifinals but they fell in a tough one to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit last season. The Raiders have been mentioned as a possible Division One State title contender with the proven experience coming back. North Farmington has Landon Willams, Prince Jackson, Vincent Lee, Lee Hardy, Ryan Hurst, Tyler Spratt, Donovan Williams, Dwayne Ray, Daemon Eubanks, Connor Childress, and Lamar Walls coming back for Coach Todd Negoshian. Farmington should be much improved after having a really challenging year last season. The Falcons have DeAndre Green, Tony Tobert, Nick Morgan, Chris Boyd, Logan Robinson, Jaden Turner, and Luke Donehue coming back for Coach Derrick McDowell. Southfield Arts and Tech has a lot of proven experience after struggling last season. The Warriors have Greg Davis, Davier Burt, Quantie Pryor, Ethan Taylor, Bryce Hewins, Kayel Sims, Nicholas Hardy, Matt Young, and Juwan Ramsey coming back for new coach Terrance Porter. Porter formally coached at Farmington and was an assistant for his brother TaJuan Porter at Harper Woods last season. Detroit Henry Ford has been a proven contender. They won 11 games last season under Coach Ken Flowers. The Trojans should be North Farmington’s toughest challenger in the district. They have proven players in Semaj Sanders, Antwon Davis, and Terrance Coker coming back. Livonia Stevenson went to the district finals falling to North Farmington last season. They won 12 games last season should be a sleeper in this district. The Spartans have Bailey Way, Dominick Jentzer, Nate Curtis, Maek Stein, Dylan McGlinch, Lucas Young, John Toth, and Chuck Davidek coming back for Coach Eoghann Stephens. The Raiders hosts this district for the second straight year but Detroit Henry Ford could give them fits, something to watch.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: No changes to this district. North Farmington is the favorite and has home court. Detroit Henry Ford will be the Raiders biggest challenger in the district. The Trojans already have a win over Bloomfield Hills. Farmington is not to be trusted in this district for a few reasons. Southfield Arts and Tech has been on and off with their play recently. Livonia Stevenson is still the darkhorse despite their struggles against the two top teams. As mentioned earlier, no changes for now.
District 27 @ Bloomfield Hills (Winner heads to Troy to play District 25 Winner)
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
GROVES
SEAHOLM
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Birmingham Brother Rice
Orchard Lake St. Marys
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Brother Rice, 2. Bloomfield Hills
FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARKHORSE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Curtis Williams-Birmingham Brother Rice
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season except that the location changed from West Bloomfield to Bloomfield Hills. Orchard Lake St. Marys is loaded after winning the district and making the State Quarterfinals where they were upset on a buzzer beater against Warren De LaSalle last season. They should be the favorite in the district for the second straight season. The Eaglets have Trey McKenny, Andrew Smith, Jayden Savoury, Isaiah Hines, Chase Tonnies, and Aidan Hanks coming back for Coach Todd Cobert. They have several players to watch in Brandon Thomas, Devon Lewis, Sharad Barnes, Geno Seets and Jack Janda as well but they have had several distractions including some off the court issues they are dealing with. Birmingham Brother Rice should be very interesting. They have a ton of proven experience and should be motivated after falling to Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district finals last season. The Warriors have Xavier Thomas, Henry Garrity, John Blackwell, Luke Salkowski, Warren Marshall, Quincy Twymon, Tom Labruzzy, Curtis Williams, Keithan Gilmore, and Chasr Van Ameyde coming back for Coach Ricky Palmer. They also have Logan Hamana as well. Bloomfield Hills is the wildcard in this district. They have the district’s best shooter. The Blackhawks have Noah Adamcyzk, CJ Jackson, Brandon Newland, Ahmad Taylor, Drew Wilson, and Henry Jackson coming back for new Coach Brian Canfield. Groves is very interesting. They have had a ton of ups and downs and have a new coach whom is very familiar with the program. The Falcons have Jack Abbott, Max Kramer, Elijah Yelder, Myles McClary, Brody Tushman, Josh Simpson, and Josh Gibson coming back for returning Coach Marc West. Seaholm has been always scrappy and mentally tough. The Maples have Ben Diskin, Findlay Sparby, Rishi Thota, Abe Miller, and Jeff Sheldon coming back for Coach Mike DeGeeter. West Bloomfield should be much improved after a rough year last season. They have a ton of proven experience. The Lakers have Jayden Jones, Evan Ammori, Andrew Shewcraft, Terrance Curry, Isiaiah Bryant, Tory James, Louis Johnson, and Mitchell Seay coming back for Coach Arnette Jordan. They have Cory Pittman in the program as well. This will be a very interesting district as mentioned but the Catholic League stands out but watch for West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: There are some big changes with this district. I can’t trust Orchard Lake St. Marys especially with the distractions they have right now. Birmingham Brother Rice is senior heavy and they look to be on a mission. Bloomfield Hills is a sleeper, I’ve liked the play of Drew Wilson, he is the perfect compliment to Noah Adamcyzk. West Bloomfield is a Jekyll and Hyde team. Groves has been off to a good start and could be a sleeper like Bloomfield Hills. Seaholm has been scrappy and has been playing better as of late. This will be a tough district as mentioned.
District 28 @ Sterling Heights Stevenson (Winner heads to Troy to play District 26 Winner)
TROY
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Utica Ford II
Utica
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Troy, 2. Utica
FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Utica
DARKHORSE: Sterling Heights Stevenson
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Zach Penoza-Troy
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a newly created district that features three Macomb County schools and two Oakland County schools. Troy and Troy Athens enter this district with three Utica schools instead of dealing with the Warren area (Warren Cousino, Warren Mott, Warren Woods Tower, and Warren De LaSalle.) Troy should be the early favorite because of proven experience. They have really improved this summer and will look to continue that momentum this season. The Colts have Darius Whiteside, Jon Whiteside, Zach Penoza, Chase Kupier, Nate Liberty, Carter Cusmano, Kyle Parker, Bryce Parker, and Mason Parker coming back for Coach Gary Fralick. Troy Athens should be very interesting this season. They have been solid this summer and have been solid in the last few years. The Red Hawks has Doug Mersier, Evan Colquhoun, Alex Proefkee, Kyree Harper, Emmanuel Robinson, and Brogan Withun coming back for Coach Dave Scott. Sterling Heights Stevenson really struggled winning nine games last season. They have a ton of proven experience coming back. The Titans have Austin Akrawi, Joesph Sotto, Justin James, Sam Kashat, Graham James, Caden Bollinger, Amuwha Mazino, Ronaldo Yaldo, Kryan Ross, Alex Moratalla, Daron Bobbitt, Joseph Malak, and Luke Sesi coming back for Coach Jeff Becker. Utica really struggled winning seven games last season. They had some moments including an upset win over Romeo last season. The Chieftains have Logan Davis, Mason Brodi, Trent McFarland, Sebastian Soriano, Jack Malone, Nick Bosilkovski, Nathan Silver and Austin Lemerise coming back for Coach David Hinkle. Utica Ford II should be much improved after having a challenging year last season. The Falcons have Dakari Rogers, Aaron Johnson, Diego Harden, Carson Strumn, Eli Miller, Gavin Gugliemetti, and Maid Kurjakovic coming back for former West Bloomfield coach Jeremy Dehna. Troy should be the favorite as mentioned but Sterling Heights Stevenson and Troy Athens should have strong says.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: I’ve been very impressed with Utica, I didn’t think the Chieftains had it in them. They did beat Sterling Heights Stevenson which is a big deal. I don’t think they will beat Troy in a district. The Colts have proven experience and proven talent. Sterling Heights Stevenson is a darkhorse. The Titans have a solid big man and a few good shooters. Troy Athens has been on and off but they could make some noise. Utica Ford II is well coached but is struggling right now. With this district, Troy is still favored to win this district but Sterling Heights Stevenson and Utica will be their toughest challengers.
District 59 @ Hazel Park (Winner heads to Hazel Park to play District 57 Winner)
FERNDALE
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY
Hazel Park
Detroit Lincoln King Academy
Detroit Old Redford
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Ferndale, 2. Ferndale University
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT: Ferndale University
DARKHORSE: Detroit Lincoln King Academy
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Chris Williams-Ferndale
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very difficult district to say the least when looking at the teams that are here. Ferndale went to the Division Two State Semifinals the last two years. They have a pretty strong team and program despite losing their two top players. The Eagles have Cameron Reed, Chris Williams, Caleb Renfroe, Maurice Booth, and Trenton Ruth coming back for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale also added a transfer in Jayden Hardiman whom was an all Detroit Free Press player at Warren Mott last season. Detroit Old Redford won 11 games last season. The Ravens have really toughened up their schedule for Coach Rashad Reeves. Ferndale University is a sleeper in this district. They have really improved winning seven games and will look to take the next step as a program. The Eagles have Chris Kendrix, Semaj McGhee, Rasheed Jones, Semaj Clark, Cordae McAllister, Antione Owens, Pierce Sanders, Jonathan King, Zakaria Smith, Antione Owens, and Damir Orr coming back for Coach Josh Nicks. Hazel Park is the weakest team in this district. They won three games last season. The Vikings should be better under Coach DeAndre Thomas. Detroit Lincoln King Academy won 14 games last season. The Wolves have a ton of proven experience coming back for Coach Chris Covington. This should be a really tough district. Whoever wins this district and gets home court will be in line for a very competitive district.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district is still Ferndale’s to lose despite their early season struggles but they have seemed to turn things around a little bit. Ferndale University has really impressed me and is on the NEXT column. Detroit Lincoln King Academy has been very disappointing. Hazel Park has struggled. Detroit Old Redford Academy has really struggled. This district as mentioned if the Eagles are playing really well then they could make another postseason run.
District 30 @ Grosse Pointe North (Winner heads to Macomb Dakota to play District 32 Winner)
HARPER WOODS
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
Roseville
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grosse Pointe North, 2. Grosse Pointe South
FAVORITE: Grosse Pointe North
NEXT: Grosse Pointe South
DARKHORSE: Harper Woods
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Julian Young-Harper Woods
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district which saw four teams that are in the district that won more than 10 games last season. Roseville should be the early favorite in this district. They won 13 games but fell to eventual Division One State Champions Warren De LaSalle in the district finals last season. The Panthers have Brian Hunter, Amonti Greene, AJ Scott, Todario Payne and Isiah Mays coming back for Coach Greg Boler. Grosse Pointe North started very well early but went 1-10 in their last 11 games including falling to Hamtramck in the first round last season. The Norseman has Adam Ayrault coming back for new coach Rob Johnson. Johnson was an assistant under Coach Vance Kirkwood at Rochester for one season. Grosse Pointe South won 11 games last season. The Blue Devils have Donovan Moody, Noah Stiyer, Karter Richards, Tommy Maccagnone, Griffin Adams, Brady Kennedy, and Alex English coming back for Coach Stephen Benard. St. Clair Shores Lakeview won 11 games last season. They should be in the mix after falling in a heartbreaker to St. Clair Shores Lake Shore in the first round last season. The Huskies has Matthew Ritter, Austin Stockett, Keonte Woolf, Tyler Griffin, Charrone Gordon, Bryce Ong, Easton Demeulenarere, and Zavier Hassan coming back for Coach John Carr. Harper Woods comes up from Division Two this offseason. They won a district crown in their first season in the OAA last season. The Pioneers have Julian Young, Stephone Buford, Isiah Lewis, and DeAndre Williams coming back for Coach TuJuan Porter. This should be a very interesting district as mentioned but three teams really stand out for now.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This is a tough district. Grosse Pointe North is the favorite and have been playing very well. Grosse Pointe South has also been playing pretty well as of late. Harper Woods is the leader in the Gold and a sleeper despite the odds against them. St. Clair Shores Lakeview is not a bad team and could surprise some folks. Roseville has really struggled. This is a tough district as mentioned but four teams have a shot to win this district.
Here is the Boys Basketball Districts from the MHSAA Website
by orionontv | Jan 30, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Wednesday June 22nd at 10:40 AM
Updated Saturday January 28th at 8:45 PM
Hello everyone, these are the Girls Basketball districts.
This article will be updated very often.
District 4 @ Lapeer (Winner heads to Flushing to play District 3 Winner)
OXFORD
Grand Blanc
Lapeer
Davison
Holly
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford
FAVORITE: Grand Blanc
NEXT: Oxford
DARKHORSE: Lapeer
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Jada McCree- Grand Blanc
EARLY THOUGHTS: There were plenty of surprises and this district brought a huge surprise. Flint Kearsley got moved to a different district where they are hosting however they have to deal with Flint Carman Ainsworth, Flushing, and Saginaw Heritage. Oxford is in a northern district for a third straight year??? I don’t know what my good friend Dan Brown at Chicago Brothers Pizza has to say about this but knowing him he won’t be happy. The Wildcats have proven experience in Peyton Richter, Nevaeh Wood, Allison Hufstedlar, Sophia Rabb, Brady Elling, Avery Feeney, Lexi Yankee, and Miranda Wyniemko coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. Lapeer had a really rough year last season but they have a new coach whom came in this offseason and they have home court. The Lightning have Mallory Butterfield, Rosemary Kollar, Mya McKenna, MaKynna Saltzman, Laura Brown, Alexis Norman, Alida Wing, and Abigail Francis coming back for new Coach Evan Bell. Davison went through a transition last year which saw them win ten games. They should be improved this season. The Cardinals have Gracie Little, Gabi Stevens, Marionna Dixon, Skyler Miller, Katie O’ Connor, and Marchae Nelson coming back for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. Grand Blanc should be the favorite in this district despite losing some key players to graduation last season. The Bobcats have Chelsea Bishop, Jada McCree, Rayven McQueen, Ali Anderson, Kendyle Hall, and Malaya Brown coming back for Coach Mike McCay. Holly is new to this district after being in a district that had Fenton, Linden, Howell, and Hartland. They could have things very rough going north in this district. The Bronchos have Alana Simmons, Annabelle Basham, Audrey Combs, McKenna McGhee, Morgan Fluckey, Annalease Thiese, and Molly Adams coming back for Coach Ben Varner. When looking at this district, the Bobcats are favored for the third straight district but I have a funny feeling that Oxford is not that far off despite the two blowout losses in the last two years, the third time is always the charm and it could be for the Wildcats.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district is going as planned right now. Grand Blanc is still the favorite in the district but Oxford is right there with them. Could this be the Wildcats time to overcome the Bobcats??? it certainly looks possible however Oxford took a huge blow with a season ending ACL injury to Nevaeh Wood during their loss to North Farmington. Grand Blanc is not the same team as years past but they still have very good players as mentioned in the Early Thoughts. I’ve been very disappointed with Davison. I thought they would be better but they are not. Holly is much improved after they were winless last season. Lapeer is making some progress as well. This district looks like right now it will be either Grand Blanc or Oxford that moves on.
District 5 @ Rochester (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 7 Winner)
ROCHESTER
STONEY CREEK
ADAMS
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Rochester, 2. Stoney Creek
FAVORITE: Rochester
NEXT: Stoney Creek
DARKHORSE: Utica Eisenhower
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ava Williams- Rochester
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a district that is almost the same from last season. Lake Orion won the district last season was moved to Clarkston this season. Rochester should be the early favorite in the district with the experience they have coming back and have made the district finals in each of the last four years. The Falcons have not gotten past the district finals in those four tries. They fell to Lake Orion in the district finals last season. Rochester has had home court in the districts before but one of those losses came against Utica in 2021 in the district finals when having home court. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kiley Robinson, Natalie Rayce, Ava Williams, Alania Webb, Stevie Norgrove, Abby Pleasant, and Samantha Glover whom didn’t play last season coming back for Coach Bill Thurston. Stoney Creek earned the top seed in the district but was upset by Lake Orion in the district semifinals last season. They should be motivated this season. The Cougars have Sarah LaPrarie, Emily Flynn, Mia Carson, Merrick Schwalbach, and Lily Solek coming back for Coach Kellen James. Adams is in a very interesting spot. They really struggled with the transition period last season. The Highlanders have Samantha Blaine, Olivia Marcial, Taylor Green, AuJayna Howard, Jin Ah Jasper, Morgan McPherson, Nicole Kedzierski, and Skyler Slezak coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. Utica Eisenhower is a sleeper. They have a ton of proven experience coming back. The Eagles have Deyvn Raymond, Autumn Reed, Maggie McGuire, Layna Sturza, Jennifer McWerthy, Ava Stack, Marianna Stojcevski, Abby Klaft, Abby Nezich, and Lexi Horattas coming back for Coach Cliff Piper. Romeo had a really rough year last season but there is some optimism surrounding them. The Bulldogs have Eva Hill, Ava McMillan, Clare Carmody, Elise Rilley, Amanda Kitchen, Jacqueline LeBlanc, Gabriella Matina, and Rachel Miller coming back for new coach Ronald LeBlanc. He is very familiar with the program so the transition should be smoother. This district looks to be very interesting. Three teams standout but anything is possible.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district is going as expected so no changes are needed. Rochester is the still the favorite while Stoney Creek is not that far behind. Utica Eisenhower has been red hot and is very dangerous. Romeo has been playing better. Adams is very young and have taken a ton of lumps. As mentioned no changes are needed for now.
District 6 @ Clarkston (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 8 Winner)
CLARKSTON
LAKE ORION
PONTIAC
Waterford Kettering
Waterford Mott
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Lake Orion, 2. Clarkston
FAVORITE: Lake Orion
NEXT: Clarkston
DARKHORSE: Waterford Kettering
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ava Hernandez- Clarkston
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is almost the same district as last season but there is one team that moved out while another moved into this district. Avondale is hosting their own district. There are two teams that really stand out and both of them won district titles last season. Clarkston won their third straight district title but missed a really great look at the end and fell to Hartland in the regional finals. They won 18 games last season and have some talent coming back. The Wolves have Ava Hernandez, Mia Zorski, Emily Valencia, Kierra Tolmie, Ellery Hernandez, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Anna Thomas, and Claire Walker coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough.They have Ellianna Roback in the program as well. Lake Orion comes into this district after winning a different district. They won 18 games and was in it for three and a half quarters against Clarkston in the regional semifinals last season. The Dragons have Chloe Wiegers, Maddie Ebbert, Kylie Heck, Taylor Dinda, Audrey Wischmeyer, Ryann Pawalcyzk, Grace Sullivan, Ali May, Fontana Blackney, Jodie McCaffery, Charlie Peplowski, and Izzy Wotlinski coming back for Coach Bob Brydges. Pontiac should be much improved this season for new coach Corray Lett. Waterford Kettering lost some proven experience from last season. The Captains have Amelia Vamvakitis, Malyanna Schoof, Ellie Drops, Payton Amshay, Natalia Perez, Bella Labo, Gracela Lovelett, Abby Hayword, and Nora Hernandez coming back for new coach Eric Parker. Waterford Mott was very young last season. They should be much improved this season. The Corsairs have Makayla Henderson, Jillian Massey, Gillian Johnson, Karli Koskien, Rachel Rockford, Juliana Lemis, Izzy Esquivel, Emily Nasianceno, Madison Winters, Kelsey Palmer, and Emma Paschke coming back for Coach Michelle Sklar. There are a lot of PR1DE ladies in this district. This should be very interesting to watch.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district is going as expected. The MPR is kind of whacked a little bit. The two top teams that are ranked should be the top teams in this district. Pontiac, Waterford Kettering, and Waterford Mott have really struggled this season. Clarkston has struggled a little bit but they have home court. Lake Orion has been going along with it’s business. So far this district still has a green and white vs blue and gold feeling to it.
District 7 @ Lakeland (Winner heads to Lake Orion to play District 5 Winner)
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Lakeland
Walled Lake Northern
Walled Lake Central
Walled Lake Western
PROJECTED MPR: 1. West Bloomfield, 2. Walled Lake Northern
FAVORITE: West Bloomfield
NEXT: Walled Lake Northern
DARKHORSE: Lakeland
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Destiny Washington-West Bloomfield
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is where the defending Division One State Champs will begin their State title defense in this district. Lakeland also won a district crown last season. They were put in different regionals but they are in the same district this season. West Bloomfield has a ton of proven experience. The Lakers have Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Kendall Hendrix, Sydney Hendrix, Destiny Washington, Ava Lord, Gabby Williams, Jaylee Head, Jada Vaughn, and Gabrielle Hale coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Lakeland should be very young this season after falling to a very good Hartland program in the regional semifinals last season. The Eagles have Kira Brower, Molly Marino, Lizette Tanguaka, Mia McDonald, Parker Ostach, Emma Benton, and Raegan Lukes coming back for Coach Mike Leithelm. Walled Lake Western was very young last season after being very good a few years ago under former Oxford coach Steve Emmert. The Warriors have Emma Hoffmeyer, Emma Cassatta, Bella Yaldoo, Kelsey Beck, Makenna Krzisnik, Evana Gjelaj, Ryan Geisler, and Ryah Dewey coming back for Coach Kelly Costello. Walled Lake Northern could be West Bloomfield’s toughest challenger in the district with the proven experience coming back. The Knights have Amal Younes, Addison Porter, Ava Horen, Mia Lanni, Reese Nemeth, Natalie Wilbert, Macie Hunter, Cate Ross, and Aleena McCullough coming back for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was very young last season. They could be a sleeper in the district if things go right. The Vikings have Jaden Henderson, Amelia Maktari, Carys Lucas, Kyeli Anderson, Savannah Breitwesier, Angelina Virga, Lillian Miracle, Maddie Schopf, Jordyn Harris, and Grace Mathson coming back for Coach Robert Schopf. This looks to be West Bloomfield’s district to lose but it’s much tougher than people think because all three Walled Lake schools have a lot of experience coming back.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: The only change from the Early Thoughts is Lakeland is the darkhorse in this district. West Bloomfield has been rolling as expected but their depth is a concern for them going forward. Walled Lake Northern has been clearly the best team in the Lakes Valley but the Knights are currently tied with Lakeland and South Lyon East. The Eagles have beaten Walled Lake Northern in the head to head and they will rematch really soon. Walled Lake Western and Walled Lake Central have been very disappointing teams. I thought they would be much better than what they have been. So far Lakeland has bounced back in a big way but in all reality I still don’t see anyone in the Lakes Valley touching West Bloomfield.
District 25 @ Berkley (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 27 Winner)
BERKLEY
OAK PARK
ROYAL OAK
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit Mumford
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Berkley
FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Detroit Mumford
DARKHORSE: Royal Oak
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Nevaeh Otis- Detroit Renaissance
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season. There are a ton of storylines heading into this district. Detroit Renaissance was heavily favored and had home court in the district. There were conversations that they could make another trip to the Division One State finals at the Breslin Center however they were upset by Berkley in the district finals. The Bears were middle of the pack in the White despite falling to Grosse Pointe North in the regional semifinals last season however that game against the Phoenix gave Berkley confidence heading into this season. The Bears will be a different team this season. They lost a few standouts to graduation but the talent pool is far from bare. Berkley has Jillian Gomes, Mya Jones, Ava Beard, Dakaya Cunningham, Addison Hambright, Maddi Bonsall, Avery Wintergarden, Maleve Nolan, and Sammi Withrow coming back for Coach Cody Feltner. Royal Oak should be much improved after having a unusually really rough year last season. They are well known for their defense first mentality. The Ravens have Elly Finch, Anna Waterstredt, Lucy Freytag, Emily Walden, Izzy Fairless, Alana Morello, Emiliee Austin, Maddie Lawrence, and Hannah Sanders coming back for Coach Brian Sopota. Detroit Mumford has been a proven power in the Detroit Public School League despite being paired with Detroit Renaissance in the last few years in the postseason. They fell to Berkley in the district semifinals last season. The Mustangs have Samiyah Jefferson coming back for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance should be a motivated program where they should be in the State conversation yet again. The Phoenix have Imani Johnson, Christian Sanders, Nevaeh Otis, Makayla Coleman, Aubrey Johnson, Sterling Gooden, Makayla Johnson, Azaria Huggins, Kiyla Brooks, Harmonie Bolton, and Nyanma Pharr coming back but they will have a new coach as Coach Shane Lawal left the program in August to be an assistant in the developmental program with the Sacramento Kings. They have Dashawn Wood taking over the program. Wood used to be an ex basketball trainer so he has a ton of experience coming into the program. Oak Park should be better for Coach Chantelle Corson. The Knights really struggled to score last season. This district should be very interesting to watch at Berkley.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: There have been some more added changes to this district compared to the Early Thoughts. Detroit Renaissance is still the favorite despite having a new coach but they also have proven experience so there are no changes surrounding the Phoenix. The major change has been Berkley. The Bears have been very disappointing but they have seemed to turn things around. Detroit Mumford has impressed me with their play especially against Harper Woods. Royal Oak has really struggled which is very concerning. Oak Park has shown some improvement but even with their recent success they don’t really have a chance in this district. Detroit Renaissance has a great chance to get through this district and get some revenge after their shocking upset loss at home to Berkley in the district finals last season.
District 26 @ North Farmington (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 28 Winner)
NORTH FARMINGTON
FARMINGTON
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
Farmington Hills Mercy
Detroit Henry Ford
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. North Farmington
FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARKHORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Sela Lefler- North Farmington
EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district on paper. It looks like it should be a two team district final but maybe a third team could emerge as a possible sleeper. Farmington Hills Mercy is the early favorite for a few reasons. They won 18 games last season and have a lot of proven experience. The Marlins have Maya White, Fran DeNardo, Carley Goebel, Alison Smiley, Lillian DeJong, Ava Lorraine, Caroline Butcher, Aizlyn Albanese, Lauren Smiley, and Emily Walker coming back for Coach Gary Morris. Farmington could be a sleeper. They lost a ton of proven talent from last season but they always seem to be in the mix at the very end. The Falcons have Yasmine Thorpe, Jayla Silver, Brooke Farrington, Annalin Nardelli, and Clarissa Hankins coming back for Coach Laura Guzman. Southfield Arts and Tech should be improved this season. They were a real Jekyll and Hyde last season. The Warriors have proven experience in Christian Banks, Jayla Austin, Kamira Page, and Jordan Ushery coming back for Coach Shiquita Coltrane. North Farmington enters this district and also has home court. They had a really rough district which had Groves, Seaholm, Birmingham Marian, Bloomfield Hills, and West Bloomfield last season. The Raiders have Sela Lefler, Penelope Creary, Asiyah Jihad, Eliza Muller, Amarriah Merriweather, Hannah Hart, Sam Hoffer, and Halee Rogers coming back for Coach Jeff Simpson. Detroit Henry Ford won 10 games last season. The Trojans could be a sleeper in this district for Coach Chevelle O’Brien. This is shaping to be a very interesting district as mentioned but this district looks like it’s the Marlins to lose for now.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: There has been one change but no changes to where North Farmington and Farmington Hills Mercy stands when it comes to the MPR or seeding. Southfield Arts and Tech is the wildcard but they have some flaws as well. Farmington has really struggled outside the Blue. Detroit Henry Ford has really struggled this season. As of right now it stands to be a district final between the Marlins and the Raiders. North Farmington has really closed the gap and is the biggest challenger to Farmington Hills Mercy.
District 27 @ Birmingham Marian (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 25 Winner)
GROVES
SEAHOLM
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
TROY
Birmingham Marian
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Bloomfield Hills
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARKHORSE: Groves
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Mackenzie Swanson- Birmingham Marian
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the newly named “Mary Cicerone court.” Birmingham Marian looks to be the favorite on paper but there are some suitable challengers in this district. Groves should be very interesting this season. The Falcons have Kaitlyn Sanders, Cira Racco, Lilly Gallagher, Cameron Little, Ella Blank, Nevaeh McCay, Jean Smith, Dana Wesley, Payge Charnas, and Kirsten Jasinski coming back for Coach Alison Hidey. Troy comes to this district after overcoming their postseason problems past by making it to the State Quarterfinals last season. They were in a district that had Warren Cousino, Warren Mott, Warren Woods Tower, and Troy Athens on their home floor last season. The Colts have Charlotte Gillion, Avery Allen, Shaivani Angadi, Victoria Siegan, Raegan Zeiter, and Diamond Prince coming back for Coach Julius Porter. Seaholm had a very strong year where they won the Blue however fell to arch rival Groves in the first round last season. The Maples have Shay Manchester, Taylor Hartwig, Lola Weber, Olivia Davis, Kate Anderson, Clara Guffy, Emma Weber, Mary Gumbas, and Anne Boogerian coming back for Coach Chris Manchester. Bloomfield Hills should be much improved after a very rough two years. They made several strides despite falling to North Farmington in the first round in a very competitive game last season. The Blackhawks have Ashley Forner, Brianna Young, Grace Main, and Ruby Smith coming back for Coach Kristen Massey. Birmingham Marian will have a new era as former assistant Michelle Lindsay takes over for longtime coach Mary Cicerone. The Mustangs have Mackenzie Swanson, Ella Ervin, Abby Landa, Molly McLeod, and Charlie Bingham coming back for Lindsay. The district looks for now like its Birmingham Marian’s to lose but there are some challengers waiting in the wings as mentioned.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This district has turned into a wide open district with Birmingham Marian unsuspectingly struggling. The Mustangs have won three of their last five games and have seemed to have turned the corner a little bit. Seaholm has been a Jekyll and Hyde as of late. They have played a tough schedule and has a win over Bloomfield Hills. Groves has also played a tough schedule but they did beat Seaholm however they have not looked very good in recent weeks. Bloomfield Hills has really improved. The non conference hasn’t been the strongest but they have played Stoney Creek and will play Birmingham Marian in February. Troy is very young and have taken their lumps this season. They could be a player but they have to play very well. Birmingham Marian is still the favorite because of Mackenzie Swanson and home court but Groves, Seaholm, and Bloomfield Hills have really closed the gap and hard.
District 28 @ Avondale (Winner heads to Royal Oak to play District 26 Winner)
AVONDALE
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Utica
Utica Ford II
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Utica Ford II, 2. Utica
FAVORITE: Utica Ford II
NEXT: Utica
DARKHORSE: Troy Athens
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ellie Musto- Troy Athens
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district with a combination of Oakland and Macomb County schools in this district. Avondale was moved east away from Clarkston, Pontiac, Waterford Kettering, and Waterford Mott and was given home court for the district. The Yellow Jackets have Lily Titus, Madison Manyweathers, Khila Bradley, Amaria Daniels, Takera Williams, and Kaliyah Carroll coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Troy Athens is a program that not a lot of people are paying attention too that could win this district. What is odd for them is that their arch rival Troy is not in this district as they are in a very difficult district. The Red Hawks have Ellie Musto, Rebekah Delia, Lily Batzold, Fiona Wingblad, Kaci Mersier, Abby Malone, Alex Link, and Skyler Emerson coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Sterling Heights Stevenson had a really great year under former Rochester boys basketball coach Vance Kirkwood but he is no longer there as he is the new Boys Basketball Coach at Mount Clemens. The Titans won 11 games but fell to Utica Ford II in the first round last season. Utica has always been a proven program and has the track record to prove it. They won 16 games and a district crown but fell to Macomb L’Anse Creuse North in the regional semifinals last season. The Chieftains have Cameron McConachie, Sarah Fromm, Natalie Shtogrin, and Katelyn Shtogrin coming back for legendary coach Tom McDonald. Utica Ford II should be the favorite in this district because of proven experience and track record. They won 16 games but fell to Utica in the district finals last season. The Falcons have Sydney Garon, Lilah Earl, Madison Bettys, Kailee Gillich, Anayya Davis, and Rachel Riepma coming back for Coach Matt Joseph. I see four teams that standout in this district, it’s anyone’s district to take.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: There has been some major changes to the Early Thoughts. Sterling Heights Stevenson has really struggled. Utica is at the Next column and Troy Athens stayed as the Darkhorse. The Falcons have been playing very well. The Chieftains haven’t lost a beet. Troy Athens has been a very weird team to figure out. They started at 4-0 but have gotten back to Earth a little bit. Avondale has been up and down. Sterling Heights Stevenson has really struggled with the coaching transition. There have been some major changes but so far this is where things stand.
District 30 @ Grosse Pointe North (Winner heads to Macomb Dakota to play District 32 Winner)
HARPER WOODS
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Roseville
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grosse Pointe North, 2. Grosse Pointe South
FAVORITE: Grosse Pointe North
NEXT: Grosse Pointe South
DARKHORSE: St. Clair Shores Lakeview
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Annabel Ayrault- Grosse Pointe North
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very tough district with every team winning double digit games and two teams that made the regionals that are in this district from last season. Grosse Pointe North should be the favorite because of proven experience. They fell to West Bloomfield in the regional finals last season. The Norsemen have Jenna Winowiecki, Annabel Ayrault, Mia Stephanoff, Charlotte Juilen, Natalie Babcock, and Sophie Boroski coming back for Coach Gary Bennett. St. Clair Shores Lakeview is a very interesting program. They made the regional semifinals falling to Troy last season and they also have proven experience. The Huskies have Zion Harris, Camara Knighton, Jillian Ostrowski, Mackenzie Stein, Isabella Tiseo, Maria Decker, Ava Prasnjak, Samantha Guciardo, Autumn Wirick, Alexis Pottu, Me’Ahna Owoiya, and Madison Geib coming back for Coach Joe Charrette. Roseville has a ton of proven experience this season. The Panthers have Aaniya Jordan, Saniah Love, Dionni John, Cheyenne Hrelja-Hill, Haleigh Olivas, Michelle Huffman, Reyvan Frank, Rihanna Reeves, Keyonna Scorpio, Presley Rubio, and Sydney Masterson coming back for Coach Andy Houghton. Grosse Pointe South has been a traditional power however they unusually struggled winning four games last season. The Blue Devils have Maddy Benard, Bella Deveroux, Madison Duff, Olivia Dimuzio, Ava Sjorgen, Chloe Power, and Karter Richards coming back for Coach Kevin Richards. Harper Woods comes into this district after being in Division Two last season. They won 18 games but fell to St. Clair Shores South Lake in the district finals last season. The Pioneers have Kendall Kelsey, Mya Duncan, Lauren Peterson, and Clearia Peterson coming back for new coach Anthony Brown. This should be a very tough district as mentioned. There is a lot of proven programs in this district.
CURRENT THOUGHTS: This has the makings of a very interesting district. Grosse Pointe North is still is the favorite to win this district. The Norsemen are loaded with proven talent and experience and they have home court as well so no changes with Grosse Pointe North. Grosse Pointe South has been around 500 but they are always dangerous come postseason time. St. Clair Shores Lakeview is unusually struggling which is odd surrounding the Huskies and their history of very good basketball. Roseville has been struggling this season and will struggle in this district. Could Harper Woods take advantage???, sure. The Pioneers have a high octane offense led by Clearia Peterson but there is a downside. They really struggle to defend and when they don’t score 50 points or over it usually doesn’t end well. It’s hard for me to put Harper Woods on the list of contenders but they will be on there if they keep winning games. So far this district looks like it’s the Norsemen’s district to lose.
District 58 @ Hazel Park (Winner heads to Hazel Park to play District 60 Winner)
FERNDALE
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY
Hazel Park
Warren Lincoln
Warren Fitzgerald
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Warren Fitzgerald, 2. Hazel Park
FAVORITE: Warren Fitzgerald
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARKHORSE: Ferndale
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Jada Buchanan- Ferndale
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is not a very strong district on paper. Ferndale University is getting better each day for Coach Brianna Rowe. The Eagles made the district finals falling to Birmingham Detroit Country Day last season. Ferndale had a really challenging year last season. They have a new but familiar coach coming back into the program in Coach Keith Paris. The Eagles have Jada Buchanan, Angel Ajonouma, Briunna Young, Tarriyah Early, Jaila Pouncey, and Jayla Martin coming back for Paris. Hazel Park is the sleeper in this district and has has home court. The Vikings won 11 games last season for Coach Dakota Ogles. Warren Lincoln has not been the same program that really dominated the late 2010’s. They struggled winning four games last season. The Abes should be much improved for Coach Jalen Ford. Warren Fitzgerald should be improved. They really struggled winning one game last season. The Spartans have Janiya Williams and Mariah Anderson coming back for Coach JuWan Shakespear. This looks like it’s a two team district between the Eagles and the Vikings. Could this be the time Ferndale University makes the next step???
CURRENT THOUGHTS: There has been some major changes to this district from the Early Thoughts. Warren Fitzgerald has really been rolling with an unbeaten record thus far. The Spartans are a player in this district. Hazel Park has had their moments of greatness as well. The Vikings are much better and have gotten some program strength back into their program which is a great sign. Ferndale University has taken a major step back and could really struggle in this district with their rebuild. Ferndale has started to put some things together and is the wildcard of this district. Warren Lincoln has really been struggling. So far with what I’m seeing Warren Fitzgerald really stands out but Hazel Park has home court and everyone back from last season.
Here is the Girls Basketball Districts from the MHSAA Website
by orionontv | Jan 30, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Sunday January 29th at 10:35 AM
Here are my top five storylines to watch this week.
Royal Oak is in deep trouble.
The Ravens had high expectations after winning the Gold last season. They had almost everyone back from that team and went up to the Blue which was going to be a tough enough challenge for them. Royal Oak started the season at 5-0 with their best win being over Ferndale University at the time but their not as strong non conference schedule in November and December has caught up to them. They are 2-6 since the New Year came. This was the same story as the 2017-2018 Berkley Bears in which something very similar happened to them. What hasn’t helped Coach Aaron Smith’s team has been their inability to defensive rebound which was pretty evident in their loss to Berkley earlier in the season. They are not a big team so fundamentals like boxing out are very important. Another problem has been their mental toughness. There has been times that Royal Oak has had mental lapses that has cost them games. The other problem that has plagued them is that opposing star players have torched them ranging from DJ Morrow (Lake Orion), to Jake Champagne (Oxford), to Tamir Runkenvich (Berkley), to Tre Walker (Stoney Creek), and to Anthony Simmons and Bowen Moore (Holly.) The Ravens rely on their outside shooting and have the proven shooters in Dylan Hoffman, Davis Arbeiter, Nick Hoffman, Rashad Wilson, and Camden Clark. I will talk more about the Ravens problems on the podcast but this team is in deep trouble with the schedule ahead and not to mention their district is brutal with proven teams in Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, Detroit Renaissance, Oak Park, and Berkley in there along with Detroit Mumford, yikes.
Is Ferndale for real???
The Eagles have played a really tough schedule against proven teams in the State but they haven’t been able to get above 500 however the MPR looks strong. Caleb DeFoe is back and he will be a big help to go along with Cameron Reed and Chris Williams for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale could be North Farmington’s biggest challenger in the Red. The non conference schedule despite all that they have went through is still very daunting with Portage Northern, West Bloomfield, and Detroit Edison looming. Rickman really doesn’t care about how tough the schedule is which I severely disagree with but he feels that playing that schedule will get them prepared to get back to the Breslin Center which at times hasn’t been the case. If Ferndale can win over North Farmington on Tuesday then that non conference schedule they played proves that they could be a player even without Jason Drake and Trevon Lewis whom have since graduated.
The White is a gauntlet.
A lot of people look at the Red and that division is a gauntlet but the White has proven to be a gauntlet this season. All six teams have very impressive non conference wins to go with as well. Troy has the early edge on the division with their road win over Bloomfield Hills. Speaking of the Blackhawks, they, West Bloomfield, and Groves already have league wins and are very good teams as well. Lake Orion is also a very good team despite the 0-2 record. There are no easy games in this division that is for sure.
Harper Woods is the front runner in the Gold.
The Woods control their own destiny in the Gold despite being two games over 500. They also have played a really tough non conference as well and has games against Oak Park, Mattawan, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. Harper Woods is also in a tough district which has both Grosse Pointe North and Grosse Pointe South. The Pioneers have gotten proven experience from Julian Young and company for Coach TaJuan Porter. Avondale might be their toughest challenger in the division but right now things are looking upward for the Pioneers.
The Blue is wide open again.
The Blue was thought to be Berkley’s for the taking all of sudden changed. The Bears had a very tough home overtime loss to Stoney Creek but they still control their own destiny in the division. Berkley has not won a league crown in a long while and this could be their best chance to get it done. Oxford has been up and down as has Troy Athens whom have had their moments. Seaholm is coming back with a vengeance. The Wildcats, Maples, and Red Hawks are one game behind the Bears while Stoney Creek is two games back and Rochester is two and a half games back. Royal Oak is in a very tough spot in the division being three games back but they can beat anyone with their three point shooting. These next few weeks will tell a lot about the Blue that is for sure.
by orionontv | Jan 30, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday January 28th at 10:30 PM
Here are my top five storylines to watch for heading into the week.
How will Oxford adjust without Nevaeh Wood???
The Wildcats took a blow on Saturday when power forward Nevaeh Wood announced on Twitter that she was out for the season with a torn ACL. The Wood injury could impact Oxford’s chances in the White where they are trying to catch North Farmington but also in the district in which they will have to deal with Grand Blanc. Brady Elling or Lexi Yankee looks to be that possible fifth starter for Coach Rachel Bryer in Wood’s absence. Oxford also has proven players in Miranda Wyniemko, Peyton Richter, Sophia Rabb, and Allison Hufstedler as well. Wyniemko, Hufstedler, and Richter combined for 47 of the Wildcats 61 points in their blowout win over Seaholm. Oxford’s depth will be tested for sure.
Bloomfield Hills controls their own destiny in the Blue.
The Blackhawks are in control of the Blue at the moment with their 60-45 win over Farmington. Bloomfield Hills still has to go to Farmington late in the season which could decide the division. They could win it outright or share of the division but that’s all if the Blackhawks keeps winning. The non conference schedule was beefed up a little bit with Stoney Creek and even though they lost that game but it should help them with the MPR and also the long term. Bloomfield Hills has to go to Birmingham Marian in a few weeks in which could be a district preview. Coach Kristen Massey’s team has taken a ton of lumps in the White last season but with a revamped team led by Ruby Smith and Ashley Forner, they could lead the Blackhawks to their first ever division crown and they have a shot at winning their first ever district crown in school history if things go right.
Will North Farmington ever lose???
The Raiders are running rough shot on the White with their 14-0 record. North Farmington’s big wins were over Oxford and Stoney Creek. Sela Lefler and Penelope Creary have been playing very well for Coach Jeff Simpson and they have gotten third and fourth scoring whether it’s Asiyah Jihad, Eliza Muller, or Hannah Hart. If North Farmington were to go 22-0 then it would set up a likely district finals clash with Farmington Hills Mercy pending if both teams get there but for the Raiders they are rolling and have a ton of confidence.
Can Lake Orion overcome Ian Smith Gym???
The Dragons have managed to overcome a lot of adversity this season and also last season with the district crown but one problem that Coach Bob Brydges’s team faces has been Ian Smith Gym which they visit on Tuesday. It has been a long while since Lake Orion has went into Ian Smith Gym and won over arch rival Oxford and last season the Dragons had their worst shooting performance in that gym. Lake Orion did beat the Wildcats earlier in the season by double digits. Could it change this time around???
Berkley might be back.
The Bears have become a classic “We’re Back a Dinosaur Story” type of team. They really struggled to meet expectations early but they have rebounded in a big way by winning six of their last seven games with their only loss coming to a very good Rochester program. You have to credit players like Sammi Withrow, Ava Beard, Hailey Kirkwood, Mya Jones, Jillian Gomes, and Malve Nolan and also Coach Cody Feltner and his staff for getting this program back on track. Berkley has Oxford and North Farmington in the next two games. If the Bears can win one or both of them then the district talk could be very real again.
by orionontv | Jan 30, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Written Saturday January 28th 12:50 AM
Here is the Top 23 for Girls Basketball.
- West Bloomfield (13-2): Lakers are clearly the best team in the State.
- Rochester (11-3): Feel like the Falcons are playing with house money right now.
- Lake Orion (12-3): Charlotte Peplowski has really stood out.
- North Farmington (14-0): Raiders rolling with confidence right now.
- Oxford (12-2): Myranda Wynemkio has stepped up since the season ending ACL injury to Nevaeh Wood.
- Clarkston (9-7): Wolves have been up and down lately.
- Stoney Creek (10-4): Cougars really miss Mia Carson.
- Berkley (7-6): Bears have their two toughest games of the season coming up.
- Bloomfield Hills (12-2): Glad the Blackhawks were tested.
- Harper Woods (7-5): When the Pioneers score 50 they are good, they are 0-3 when they do not.
- Southfield Arts and Tech (4-10): Warriors have been playing much better.
- Royal Oak (8-6): Ravens are 2-5 in January, not good.
- Farmington (7-7): Falcons are in some trouble in the Blue.
- Oak Park (6-5): Knights are 5-1 in their last six games.
- Ferndale (4-3): Eagles allowed 11 total points this week.
- Groves (4-10): Falcons have really fallen on hard times.
- Seaholm (4-10): Maples have really fallen on hard times.
- Troy Athens (7-7): Red Hawks playing around 500 lately.
- Troy (3-12): Colts have really fallen on hard times.
- Adams (2-13): Highlanders have really fallen on hard times.
- Avondale (4-10): Yellow Jackets are a weird team right now.
- Ferndale University (1-9): Eagles are struggling right now.
- Pontiac (0-14): Phoenix back to scoring single digits, not good.
