Around the OAA: Girls Basketball Preview-2023

by orionontv | Nov 28, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Sunday, November 27, 2022

Girls Basketball Preview-2023.

Written Sunday November 27th at 9:45 AM

Here is the preview heading into the 2022-2023 season.

AROUND THE OAA TOP TEN

1. West Bloomfield
2. Lake Orion
3. Oxford
4. Rochester
5. Clarkston
6. Stoney Creek
7. Berkley
8. Groves
9. Seaholm
10. Bloomfield Hills

Red

EARLY THOUGHTS: The Red should be very interesting this season. Two teams moved from the White this offseason and could be ready to make a ton of noise. West Bloomfield won the Division One State Championship last season and the majority of their team is back. The bench is the question mark for the Lakers coming into the season. Lake Orion is loaded with proven experience. They have the majority of their team coming back after making the regional semifinals last season. The Dragons might be the deepest team when it comes to interchangeable talent. Rochester could have a say when it comes to depth this season. The Falcons have the majority of their team coming back and features two twin towers in the interior. Groves has a ton of proven experience coming back although they are not as deep as Rochester or Lake Orion. Troy lost almost everyone from a team that went to the State Quarterfinals last season. Clarkston lost their two top scorers from last season however it could make them more dangerous because they would have multiple scorers. Stoney Creek has always been a proven program and they are expected to be once again. Southfield Arts and Tech is the great unknown. The Warriors need to make that next step but for that to happen they need to beat really good teams not just the bad teams. Overall there is a reason why the Red is one of the best divisions in the State.

WEST BLOOMFIELD LAKERS

Last Season: 25-1, 12-0 Red. Won Division One State Championship.

Top Player: Summer Davis-G

Key Player: Kendall Hendrix-G

Wildcard: Sydney Hendrix-G

Biggest Question: Can the Lakers depth come to par with their starting five???

INSIGHT: The Lakers are coming off a Division One State championship last season. They are one of the favorites to repeat this season. West Bloomfield has Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Kendall Hendrix, and Sydney Hendrix coming back. Destiny Washington could be that possible fifth starter for Coach Daryl McAllister. The bench is a major concern coming into the season. They have Ava Lord, Gabby Williams, Jaylee Head, Jada Vaughn, and Gabrielle Hale coming back. McAllister needs some talented players to step up from the bench and not rely on the starting five. If they have to rely on their starting five which they can but it’s not preferred then it could spell trouble. Program strength is a concern for the Lakers. West Bloomfield has the playmakers for a deep postseason run but program strength and bench play are major concerns as mentioned coming into the season.

LAKE ORION DRAGONS

Last Season: 18-6, 10-4 White. Lost 61-47 to Clarkston in Regional Semifinals.

Top Player: Maddie Ebbert-G

Key Player: Kylie Heck-G

Wildcard: Izzy Wotlinski-G/F

Biggest Question: Can the Dragons repeat the postseason magic from last season???

INSIGHT: The Dragons overcame so much adversity before and during the season. They won 18 games and earned their first district championship since 2009. This is a program that not a lot of people around the State are talking about and really need to start to pay attention too. Lake Orion might be the deepest team in Oakland County with their proven depth. The Dragons have Maddie Ebbert, Kylie Heck, Taylor Dinda, Audrey Wischmeyer, Chloe Wiegers, Grace Sullivan, Ryan Pawalczyk, and Jodie McCaffery coming back. Watch for Izzy Wotilinski and Charlotte Peplowski for Coach Bob Brydges. Wotlinski could be on the verge of a break out year. Lake Orion has a very deep bench as mentioned. Program strength looks solid for Brydges. The Dragons should be a force this season.

ROCHESTER FALCONS

Last Season: 18-4, 13-1 White. Lost 40-34 to Lake Orion in District Finals.

Top Player: Alice Max-F

Key Player: Natalie Rayce-G

Wildcard: Stevie Norgrove-G

Biggest Question: Can the Falcons overcome their District Final Woes???

INSIGHT: The Falcons are coming off their fourth straight district final loss last season. This could be a great opportunity for them to avenge that come this postseason despite being in a very tough district. Rochester has most of their starting five with Alice Max and Kylie Robinson leading the charge coming back in the interior. The biggest question for Coach Bill Thurston will be point guard. It is expected that Alana Webb or Kaitlyn Guolla could share time at point guard. The Falcons have proven inside-out shooters in Natalie Rayce, Stevie Norgrove, Abby Pleasant, Ava Williams, and Ava Kucera coming back. They added an Iowa soccer commit in Samantha Glover. Glover fills a big need at small forward for Thurston given her height and quickness. “Very competitive group of girls. They play together and share the ball. We have a senior driven team that compliments our two sophomores” said Thurston. Program strength looks solid. Thurston has the interior along with proven shooters but the stabilizer (point guard) will be key for the Falcons success.”The girls have their goals set high and will compete to be one of the top teams in Oakland County this year. Matching last season’s defensive performance will be key as they move up to the Red” Thurston concluded. Rochester is more than capable but if they can turn their district final bad habits around then they could be in line for a deep postseason run.

CLARKSTON WOLVES

Last Season: 17-7, 10-2 Red. Lost 48-46 to Hartland in Regional Finals.

Top Player: Kierra Tolmie-F

Key Player: Ava Hernandez-G

Wildcard: Claire Walker-F

Biggest Question: How will the Wolves replace their top two scorers from last season???

INSIGHT: The Wolves are going to be a different team this season. They had a very good season where they won 17 games. Clarkston had a heartbreaking loss to Hartland in the regional final last season. They lost their two top players from last season (Maddie Skroupski and Izzy Hadley) but they might be more dangerous now that they don’t have that dominant player. The Wolves have a ton of proven players in Kierra Tolmie, Ava Hernandez, Emily Valencia, Mia Zorski, Claire Walker, Anna Thomas, Ella Morgner, Marley Maxur, Wiley Gibbs, and Olivia Gray coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Clarkston has toughen up their non-conference. Program strength looks to be solid. The Wolves should be in the mix this season.

STONEY CREEK COUGARS

Last Season: 14-7, 8-4 Red. Lost 32-30 to Lake Orion in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Sarah LaPrarie-G

Key Player: Erin Flynn-G

Wildcard: Merrick Schwalbach-F

Biggest Question: Can the Cougars sustain and rise in the Red???

INSIGHT: The Cougars are a very interesting team winning 14 games but had a very disappointing postseason last season. Stoney Creek should be in the mix in the Red and also in the postseason this season. Program strength is solid for Coach Kellen James. The Cougars have Sarah LaPrarie, Mia Carson, Erin Flynn, Lily Solek, Kaeli Butcher, and Merrick Schwalbach coming back. The interior is a bit of a concern for James. It’s possible that Schwalbach, Butcher, and Solek could fill those roles in the paint. Stoney Creek has proven experience especially at the guards. They are a sleeper in the Red.

GROVES FALCONS

Last Season: 10-11, 4-8 Red. Lost 66-22 to West Bloomfield in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Kaitlyn Sanders-F

Key Player: Cira Racco-G

Wildcard: Lily Gallagher-F

Biggest Question: Can the Falcons take the next step???

INSIGHT: The Falcons have been through a lot as a program in the last two years. They went through a very difficult transition when Coach Allison Hidey took over the program. Groves has a veteran proven team coming back after taking a ton of lumps last season. They lost one senior to graduation. Hidey has proven players in Kaitlyn Sanders, Cira Racco, Dana Wesley, Lily Gallagher, Neveah McCay, Payge Charnas, Kirsten Jasinski, Jean Smith, and Cameron Little coming back. The Falcons relied a ton on Sanders and Racco and they are expected to do so again but watch for Gallagher, she is a darkhorse on this team. Program strength is a major concern. Groves has a great shot to get over 500 this season but the postseason looks daunting. They should be very interesting to watch this season.

TROY COLTS

Last Season: 13-12, 5-7 Red. Lost 67-32 to West Bloomfield in State Quarterfinals.

Top Player: Lizzie Butzyzk-G

Key Player: Avery Allen-G

Wildcard: Reigan Zeiter-G

Biggest Question: How will the Colts replace last season’s senior class???

INSIGHT: It’s going to be a very tough transition for the Colts this season. Troy struggled early but when they got healthy they made had a special run to get to the State Quarterfinals. They lost a lot of proven experience from last season. It could be a very tough adjustment period for the Colts. Troy has Lizzie Butzyzk, Avery Allen, Zoe Silver, Shiavani Angadi, Victoria Siegan, Charlotte Guillion, and Reagan Zeiter coming back for Coach Julius Porter. Porter could have two impactful freshmen that could make varsity to watch in Carly Higginbottom and Maci Zeiter coming into the program. Butzyzk and Allen look to be their two top players this season. Program strength is a major concern. The non conference is very interesting and they are in a brutal district to close the season. Expect some growing pains this season.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH WARRIORS

Last Season: 5-16, 1-11 Red. Lost 56-18 to Farmington Hills Mercy in District First Round.

Top Player: Christian Banks-G

Key Player: Jaylin Austin-F

Wildcard: Kamaria Paige-G

Biggest Question: Can the Warriors make the next step???

INSIGHT: The Warriors are a very interesting team where it depends which team shows up every night. They have played very well against struggling teams but when they play very good or proven teams they tend to struggle. The inconsistent play is something that Coach Shaquita Coltrane has to address in a big way. Southfield Arts and Tech has some proven experience in Jaylin Austin, Christian Banks, Kamaria Paige, and Jordan Ushery coming back. Program strength is a major concern. The Red is different which could give the Warriors some issues. This is a program that needs to improve each day if they want to make some noise this season.

White

EARLY THOUGHTS: The White should be very interesting this season. Oxford should be the favorite and for good reason. The Wildcats return their entire starting lineup but the bench will be very critical if they want to make that next step especially in the postseason where they are in a very difficult district. North Farmington has their top two top scorers coming back but they have some questions elsewhere coming into the season. Berkley shocked the State with their district title run last season but they lost their best player to graduation. It will be very interesting to see what they do if they want a repeat of their district title run. Royal Oak comes from the Red after having a really tough year last season. The Ravens could be a dark horse with proven experience coming back. Harper Woods and Seaholm come from the Blue. The Maples should be very good with their proven experience along with playing very tough non-conference schedule. The Pioneers have several questions to address despite being experienced. Troy Athens could be a wildcard. The Red Hawks are well coached, have a solid nucleus, and could surprise some people. Adams will be very young this season but there is optimism surrounding this freshman class. Overall there is a lot of balance in this division but the Wildcats stand out to be the favorite right now.

OXFORD WILDCATS

Last Season: 12-6, 9-4 White. Lost 59-27 to Grand Blanc in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Myranda Wynemkio-G

Key Player: Allison Hufstedler-G

Wildcard: Peyton Ritcher-F

Biggest Question: How will the Wildcats handle their bench situation???

INSIGHT: The Wildcats have overcame a lot of adversity since last season. Oxford comes into the season with a ton of proven confidence after having a really strong summer. They should be motivated to do well especially in the postseason where it is possible that they could see Grand Blanc for a third straight year. The Wildcats should have one of the best starting lineups in Oakland County with their proven experience in Myranda Wynemkio, Peyton Ritcher, Nevadeh Wood, Sophia Rabb, and Allison Hufstedler coming back. Ritcher comes back after suffering a torn ACL injury last season. The bench is a question mark despite having Brady Elling, Avery Feeney, and Lexi Yankee coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. If the Wildcats can develop their bench then Oxford with that starting five could have a very strong season and very possibly a deep postseason run.

NORTH FARMINGTON RAIDERS

Last Season: 12-9, 8-5 White. Lost 56-31 to Birmingham Marian in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Sela Lefler-G

Key Player: Penelope Creary-G

Wildcard: Asiyah Jihad-F

Biggest Question: Can the Raiders with all the experience win a district and the White???

INSIGHT: The Raiders should be a very interesting team after experiencing some struggles early but really improved late in the year last season. North Farmington is going to be veteran heavy this season. They have their two top players in Sela Lefler and Penelope Creary coming back. Lefler was easily the Raiders top player last season and when she was out injured they really struggled. Coach Jeff Simpson will need others to step up besides Lefler and Creary if they want make some noise in the White. The Raiders have Asiyah Jihad, Eliza Muller, Amarriah Merriweather, Hannah Hart, Sam Hoffer, and Halee Rogers coming back. Simpson is veteran heavy as mentioned. They have a favorable non-conference and district ahead of them. If they can get a consistent third and fourth scorer then North Farmington could be in line for a very good season.

BERKLEY BEARS

Last Season: 13-9, 8-6 White. Lost 61-32 to Grosse Pointe North in Regional Semifinals.

Top Player: Maleve Nolan-G

Key Player: Avery Wintergarden-G

Wildcard: Sammi Withrow-G/F

Biggest Question: How will the Bears replace Ashley Loon???

INSIGHT: It was a tale of two seasons for the Bears. They were very mediocre throughout the season then the postseason came where Berkley got hot at the right time. They pulled off a shocking upset which sent shock waves through the State when they beat Detroit Renaissance last season. Berkley will be a different team this season. They don’t have Ashley Loon whom has graduated but they have several proven talented players in Jillian Gomes, Maleve Nolan, Avery Wintergarden, Ava Beard, Sammi Withrow, Addison Hambright, and Maddi Bonsall coming back for Coach Cody Feltner. Program strength is a concern however they have a future player to watch in Nadia Watts. Watts could be in a very similar spot as Wintergarden was last season splitting time between junior varsity and varsity. If Feltner can have three programs then it would be a huge deal. It will be a test for the Bears to see how they handle life is without Loon. It will be tough early for Berkley as their volleyball program were in the State Quarterfinals so it may take them a bit to get adjusted to basketball life. The Bears if things go right are a sleeper in the White.

SEAHOLM MAPLES

Last Season: 15-5, 13-0 Blue. Lost 45-41 to Groves in District First Round.

Top Player: Shay Manchester-G

Key Player: Anne Boogerian-F

Wildcard: Taylor Hartwig-G

Biggest Question: How will the Maples do in the White???

INSIGHT: The Maples made a ton of strides as a program where they have improved. Seaholm won 15 games which was the most since 2017 but they had an early postseason exit falling to Groves in the first round. There have been some changes for Coach Chris Manchester and his program. They will be in the White after winning the Blue last season. The Maples have a ton of proven experience which always helps going into a tougher division but they have several young players whom haven’t seen varsity experience as well. Seaholm has proven players in Shay Manchester, Anne Boogerian, Taylor Hartwig, Lola Weber, Olivia Davis, Mary Gumbis, Clara Guffey, and Kate Anderson coming back. They have a very tough non-conference schedule which should help when they get into league and postseason play. Program strength is a concern for Manchester. The Maples are more than capable to make the next step even if they have a really tough postseason district awaiting them, it’s the next step as a program.

ROYAL OAK RAVENS

Last Season: 3-18, 2-10 Red. Lost 34-20 to Detroit Renaissance in District First Round.

Top Player: Elly Finch-F

Key Player: Lucy Freytag-G

Wildcard: Anna Waterstredt-F

Biggest Question: Can the Ravens bounce back after a rough year last season???

INSIGHT: It was a very unusual year for the Ravens where they won three games last season. This is something that Coach Brian Sopota wants to correct this season. Royal Oak changed divisions from the Red to the White for the first time since 2015. They followed their traditional defensive principals late in the year. It didn’t give them immediate success record wise but it kept them in games. The Ravens have several proven players in Elly Finch, Lucy Freytag, Anna Waterstredt, Izzy Fairless, Aliana Morello, Emilie Austin, Emmy Walden, and Maddie Lawrence coming back. Sopota could have a sleeper in newcomer Lydia Dickens. Dickens has made a ton of noise this summer and could be varsity ready soon. Program strength looks to be coming back for Sopota. The Ravens are a sleeper in the White, they could be back.

HARPER WOODS PIONEERS

Last Season: 19-3, 12-2 Blue. Lost 53-47 to St. Clair Shores South Lake in District Finals.

Top Player: Mya Duncan-G

Key Player: Kendall Kelsey-G

Wildcard: Cleiara Peterson-G

Biggest Question: How will the Pioneers do in the White???

INSIGHT: It’s now or never for the Pioneers for several reasons. Harper Woods went up in both the division (White) and to Division One (were in Division Two) where they are in a very tough district with three proven powerhouse programs. The Pioneers have a ton of proven experience from a team that won 19 games last season. The schedule will be much tougher than it was for Harper Woods last season. They have Mya Duncan, Kendall Kelsey, Cleiara Peterson, and Lauren Peterson coming back for Coach Paul Allen. Program strength is a big concern for Allen. It’s a very tough division and will feature more travel for the Pioneers but the White also has to come to Harper Woods which could be tough on them.

TROY ATHENS RED HAWKS

Last Season: 6-16, 2-12 White. Lost 63-44 to Troy in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Ellie Musko-G

Key Player: Skyler Emerson-G

Wildcard: Alex Link-G/F

Biggest Question: Is Link ready for a much bigger role this season???

INSIGHT: The Red Hawks really struggled winning six games which was very unusual for a Coach Stacie Klumpp program last season. Klumpp has done a very good job with program strength and she will need to rely on that this season. Troy Athens should be much better especially with Ellie Musko and Skyler Emerson coming back. Musko and Emerson have been very important players for the program in the last two years and will be counted on to lead this team this season. They also have proven experience besides Musko and Emerson in Rebekah Delia, Lily Batzoid, Abby Malone, Fiona Wingblad, and Kayci Mersier coming back for Klumpp. Alex Link is the wildcard. She played some on varsity last season but will be needed to do more this season. If Link can step up and be that third scorer then the Red Hawks could do some damage this season. If there is a team that is need of a bounce back season its Troy Athens.

ADAMS HIGHLANDERS

Last Season: 7-12, 5-9 White. Lost 50-26 to Lake Orion in District First Round.

Top Player: Samantha Blaine-F

Key Player: AuJayna Howard-G

Wildcard: Olivia Marcal-G

Biggest Question: Is Blaine and Howard ready for big time roles this season???

INSIGHT: It was a very interesting transition for the Highlanders which brings more questions than answers. It has been a very long summer where they struggled in the summer leagues. There are a ton of concerns coming into the season for Coach Joe Malburg. Adams lost their two top players in Abbey Drahnak and Maddie Kessman to graduation. Program strength is a big concern. I chatted with Athletic Director Brian Hossler about the girls program few weeks ago. He said that there was some optimism along with very high potential with this freshman class. The Highlanders also have Samantha Blaine, AuJayna Howard, Olivia Marcal, and Taylor Green coming back for Malburg. The non-conference looks very manageable but the transition will be the challenge especially for this freshman class.

Blue

EARLY THOUGHTS: The Blue should be very interesting with the teams and storylines that are in this division. Bloomfield Hills. The Blackhawks comes from the White after really struggling last season. Bloomfield Hills should be the favorite in the Blue with the proven experience coming back and the program strength is bouncing back as well. Farmington lost their best player from last season but they are a well-coached program. Ferndale University has built a program in the last few years that has seen some success recently. Pontiac should be improved after having a rough year last season. The Phoenix have really toughen their schedule. Avondale is a team to watch especially losing their two top players to graduation. Ferndale has a new coach but they haven’t been able to have program stability. Oak Park should be better this season after having a rough year scoring a year ago. The Blue should be very interesting as mentioned. We’ll see what happens.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS BLACKHAWKS

Last Season: 3-17, 0-14 White. Lost 55-46 to North Farmington in District First Round.

Top Player: Ruby Smith-F

Key Player: Ashley Forner-G

Wildcard: Brianna Young-F

Biggest Question: How will the Blackhawks do in the Blue???

INSIGHT: The Blackhawks have really struggled but there are some strides that have been made this offseason that there is some optimism for Coach Kristen Massey and her program. Bloomfield Hills has had to rebuild the program from scratch. The rebuild is still ongoing but they have made substantial progress which is a huge credit to the players, coaches, and Massey for turning this program around. The Blackhawks have Ashley Forner, Ruby Smith, Brianna Young, and Grace Main coming back. Smith has had a very strong summer. Program strength looks to be on the rise especially with what is coming in the future. This is a program that is in much better shape than in past years. Bloomfield Hills has a very tough non-conference. They should be in the mix for the Blue crown this season.

FARMINGTON FALCONS

Last Season: 13-8, 10-4 Blue. Lost 52-48 in overtime to Livonia Stevenson in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Yasmine Thorpe-G

Key Player: Clarissa Hankins-F

Wildcard: Brooke Farrington-F

Biggest Question: How will the Falcons replace Autumn Bartlett???

INSIGHT: The Falcons have been hot and cold in the last few years. They had a really strong year but a very disappointing outcom where they fell to Livonia Stevenson in the district semifinals last season. Farmington lost their best player (Autumn Bartlett) and seven others to graduation but they should be in the mix in the Blue despite the heavy losses to graduation. The Falcons have Clarissa Hankins, Yasmine Thorpe, Jayla Silver, Annalin Nardelli and Brooke Farrington coming back for Coach Laura Guzman. Program strength appears to be solid. Farmington could surprise some people with their talent and work ethic this season.

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY EAGLES

Last Season: 10-9, 6-8 Blue. Lost 69-47 to Birmingham Detroit Country Day in District Finals.

Top Player: ???

Key Player: ???

Wildcard: ???

Biggest Question: Can the Eagles keep the momentum going???

INSIGHT: The Eagles have kept improving and making strides since entering the OAA under Coach Desdan Hester. Ferndale University made the district finals last season. Program strength is a concern coming into the season. Ferndale University keeps getting the players to believe in their system and it has worked out really well. Hester doesn’t have a star player which makes them that more dangerous. The schedule is a concern for several reasons. Their biggest issue is that they rely too heavily on their non conference schedule to win games. If the Eagles want to take the next step they have to win games in the Blue despite winning six games which was a start last season. The strength of schedule is another concern despite getting the second seed in their district last season. Ferndale University is the wildcard in the Blue but they need to win games in the league if they want to take the next step.

AVONDALE YELLOW JACKETS

Last Season: 10-11, 7-6 Blue. Lost 48-31 to Waterford Kettering in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Lily Titus-G

Key Player: Madison Manyweathers-G

Wildcard: Kailyah Carroll-F

Biggest Question: How will the Yellow Jackets replace their two top scorers from last season???

INSIGHT: Anytime a team loses their two top players from last season it would be a cause of concern and for the Yellow Jackets it might very well be. Coach Roy Christmon will need several players to step up if they want to make strides as a program and replace the production left by Reagan Lawrence and Savannah Schmidt whom both have graduated. Avondale has Lily Titus, Madison Manyweathers, Khila Bradley, Amaria Daniels, Kailyah Carroll, and Takera Williams coming back. Titus and Manyweathers should be their top playmakers but Carroll is a player that could make some noise. Program strength is a major concern for Christmon. The Yellow Jackets could be a team to watch but Christmon needs someone to step up and take the next step.

PONTIAC PHOENIX

Last Season: 5-13, 3-9 Blue. Lost 33-30 to Avondale in Districts First Round.

Top Player: ???

Key Player: ???

Wildcard: ???

Biggest Question: Can the Phoenix keep improving???

INSIGHT: The Phoenix have started to make strides under Coach Rawelle Marshall especially late in the year which saw them being more competitive especially in their postseason loss to Avondale last season. Marshall has really toughen up Pontiac’s non-conference schedule should help going forward into the season and prepare them heading into the postseason in which their district has two proven powerhouse Red programs. Program strength is a major concern for Marshall. The program however was in rough shape before Marshall took over and it looks like he has stabilized the program. If the Phoenix can get the numbers back up to where they can get a junior varsity program then it should help in the future. Keeping the momentum going will be the key for Marshall and his program going forward.

FERNDALE EAGLES

Last Season: 1-17, 1-13 Blue. Lost 53-16 to Ferndale University in District Semifinals.

Top Player: Jada Buchanan-G

Key Player: Jalia Martin-F

Wildcard: Jayla Pouncey-F

Biggest Question: Can the Eagles find coaching stability???

INSIGHT: The Eagles have really not have had a ton of stability to sustain success which can be very difficult without program stability. They won one game last season but they started improving late into the season. Ferndale has the talent but they have not had the coaching stability to build the program. The Eagles went back to their former coach in Keith Paris this offseason. Paris went 4-14 in 2019-2020 when Paris coached the program. Ferndale has Jalia Martin, Jada Buchanan, Angel Ajonuma, Jewell Marsh, Briunna Young, Tarriyua Early, and Jayla Pouncey coming back. If the Eagles can find some sort of consistency and build on the program then Ferndale could make some strides not only for this season but also the future as well.

OAK PARK KNIGHTS

Last Season: 2-16, 1-12 Blue. Lost 52-22 to Detroit Mumford in Districts First Round.

Top Player: ???

Key Player: ???

Wildcard: ???

Biggest Question: Can the Knights score enough points this season???

INSIGHT: It was a very challenging season for the Knights last year. Oak Park could not score over 35 points all season. The question for Coach Chantelle Corson and her program will be is can they score enough points to be competitive. Points were a big reason why they won two games and scored 23 and 26 respectively in their wins last season. Program strength is a concern for Corson. If the Knights want to turn things around they need to score points and if they can do that they can turn things around and quick.

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Around the OAA: Football Shortcomings

by orionontv | Nov 23, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Saturday, November 19, 2022

Football Shortcomings.

Written Saturday November 19th at 4:30 PM

Here are the shortcomings to the end of the OAA football season for 2022.

West Bloomfield: It was a very disappointing year for the Lakers this season which saw a first round exit to Detroit Cass Tech. West Bloomfield loses a ton of talent from this season but they have several talented returners coming back. The Lakers have Requan Nance at quarterback along with Jaiden Allios at running and wide receivers Jamir Benjamin and Bryce Rowe coming back. The lines should be solid with Brandon Davis-Swan and Zander Davis also coming back. The defense should be solid again with Benjamin and Rowe in the defensive secondary along with linebackers Kari Jackson, Reginald Hayes, and Josh Tate coming back for Coach Tyrice Grice. Program strength is a major concern this offseason for West Bloomfield. The Lakers have the talent but questions remain this offseason.

Adams: The Highlanders have had a ton of success in the last two years but they lose a ton from their senior class this season. Program strength will be very interesting in describing Adams this offseason. The Highlanders have Brady Prieskorn, Drew Heppner, and Matteo Humbert coming back at the skill positions and Brendan Watters and Nicholas Lakian coming back for Coach Tony Patritto. Adams could be in line to take a step back with all the experience they lost but Patritto has built this program and kept the veer intact. The Highlanders will be a team to watch this offseason.

Clarkston: The Wolves have had a really good season under first year Coach Justin Pintar but they had a really tough loss to Caledonia in the Division One State Semifinals. Clarkston loses a ton of proven talent but they also have some proven talent coming back for Pintar. The Wolves have playmaker Desman Stephens, tight end Brody Kosin, and Cooper Collins coming back at wide receiver. Watch for Graysen Clark and the Bowman twins next season. The Bowman twins are likely to make an impact on both sides of the football while Clark could likely replace his older brother Ethan at running back. Quarterback will be a question mark this offseason for Pintar. Clarkston should be a force to watch next season.

Lake Orion: The Dragons made some strides this season but had some tough losses to good teams along with the way but did make the postseason. Coach Chris Bell has really stabilized this program. Lake Orion has the balk of their skill players coming back with quarterback Triston Hill, running backs Darrin Jones and Billy Robertson and wide receivers Raymond Payne and Dominic Novak. The lines will need to be addressed somewhat but there are options in Kyle Purdy and Sam Blakeley coming back. The defense will be the biggest question that Bell needs to address this offseason. They have Kaydon Degraffenreid at linebacker and Korbin Smith, Andrew Parker, along with Trey Pochamara in the defensive secondary. They have the talent and program strength to compete with the best in the State. Lake Orion should be a force to be a recon with next season.

Stoney Creek: There were a ton of ups and downs with the Cougars this season. The ups were getting into the postseason and getting a big win over New Baltimore Anchor Bay. The downs were the upset loss to Rochester in the first round. Stoney Creek loses a ton of proven experience from this season. The Cougars have lineman Jacob Krobchak along with linebackers Adam Battizi and Wes Cyrulnick and kicker Quentin Ubaydi coming back for Coach Nick Merlo. Stoney Creek will need to find a quarterback and rushing attack for next season, there are several options out there and program strength is solid for Merlo. The Cougars should be fine heading into next season.

Oxford: It was a very tough season for the Wildcats. Oxford was very young and went through a lot of adversity. The Wildcats have Dominic Cassisee at quarterback, Sean Wilson on the offensive and defensive lines, Luke Johnson at running back, tight end and kicker Jay Cady, and Jake Champagne at wide receiver along with Owen Pavlock, Keegan Wynn, and Domonte Travis in the defensive secondary for Coach Zach Line. Program strength is a concern for Line. Oxford should be better with the young players seeing a ton of playing time and gaining the experience from this season’s struggle. They should be a team to watch next season.

Southfield Arts and Tech: It’s next season or bust with the Warriors. Southfield Arts and Tech made the postseason but fell to Detroit Cass Tech in the district finals. The offense wasn’t the issue and they have a ton of proven offensive players in quarterback Isisah Marshall, running back Davier Burt, lineman Reggie Gardner, and wide receivers Tashi Braceful, Xavier Bowman, Jawon Jarrett, and Parker Kennedy coming back. The defense is the biggest concern for Coach Aaron Marshall this offseason especially the linebackers and the defensive secondary even though they have Maurico Clayton and Mathias Davis at linebacker and Aaron Todd in the defensive secondary coming back. Program strength is also a major concern for Marshall. The Warriors have the offense figured out but defense and special teams will be key if Southfield Arts and Tech wants to make the next step and have a deep postseason run and live up to the expectations.

Rochester: The Falcons had a ton of success this season. They made the postseason and won their first ever playoff game over Stoney Creek. Rochester loses a ton of skill players which could be very tough to replace They have the proven linemen in Casey Burke, Issac Putuus, and Josh Harman along with linebacker Bodie Therkildsen and wide receiver/defensive secondary Jacob Vancollie coming back for Coach Eric Vernon. Program strength is a concern for the Falcons as they have to replace their quarterback and rushing attack this offseason. Rochester should be an interesting team to watch this offseason.

Groves: The Falcons had an incredible season making it to the Division Two State Semifinals falling to Warren DeLaSalle. Groves has a ton of proven experience to look forward to next season. The offense should be very good with Cayden Hardy at quarterback, Mario Lovasco at running back, wide receiver Zach Rogers, Brayden Hall and Avery Gach coming back on the offensive and defensive lines. The back end of the defense should be solid with linebacker Ivan Belew, and Chris Little, Jalen Brooks, and Aiden Leuing coming back in the defensive secondary for Coach Brendan Flaherty. Program strength is a major concern for Flaherty this offseason. The Falcons should be one of the favorites in the White next season and they could if things go right make another deep postseason run.

Harper Woods: It was a very rough transitional year for the Pioneers being their first year in the OAA this season. Harper Woods had some really tough losses to very good teams. Coach Rob Oden will look to have a bounce back year next season with a ton of proven experience. The Pioneers back end of the defense should be solid. They have a very talented secondary in Jacob Oden, Johnny Nelson, Jaylen Wilkerson, Brandon Houston, and Jacob Sims along with Caitlin Scott, Willy Powell, and Matthew McGraw at linebacker and linemen Elron Beaman, Jessten Johnson, and Trevon Mendanhall coming back. Oden will have Ramonty House and Oden coming back at wide receiver. The quarterback is the question mark for Oden and is something to watch this offseason. Harper Woods could be back with a vengeance next season.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks had a tough season this year but they closed the season out strong with two wins. Bloomfield Hills loses a ton of talent but they have several players that could help out next season. The Blackhawks have Kierran Crossley. He was the backup this season and could replace CJ Jackson at quarterback. They also have Gavin Cote at running back, Jonah Zekman at wide receiver, and lineman Jack Holton coming back for Coach Dan Loria. They need to find out their defense this offseason and build upon their program strength which is a concern this offseason. Bloomfield Hills should be a team to watch this offseason.

Oak Park: It was a very tough season for Coach Greg Carter and the Knights. Oak Park struggled in games but did improve despite the outcomes. Program strength is a serious concern for Carter this offseason. They have A’Jaylen King and Candice Fityoumouth coming back in the defensive secondary along with Arytell Guyton and Austin Smith at wide receiver. Carter has to replace his quarterback, rushing attack, and find some proven linemen and linebackers. It’s going to be a very tough task for Carter this offseason with the Knights.

Farmington: The Falcons had a ton of great moments this season which included sharing the Blue title with Seaholm, making the postseason, and getting the Farmington Cup back from North Farmington after a three year vacation. Coach Jason Albrecht needs to replace his quarterback this offseason but he has the proven playmakers in running back Cam Pettaway and Michael Woods coming back. The back end of the defense should be very talented next season. They have linebackers Trenton Dardon, Josh Walker, and Cooper Williams along with Cam Hughes and Owen Mattison in the defensive secondary and linemen Jacob Braswell and Steven Krager. Farmington could be a sleeper next season. They will need to find who their quarterback will be and if they do then they could be a team to watch.

Seaholm: The Maples had a bounce back season which saw a ton of success but they have had issues with Groves which cost them big time and a tough loss to Farmington which saw them share the Blue. Seaholm has a ton of proven talent coming back even though they could be thin up front. The Maples have the Kinnie brothers Colton and Grayden coming back. Colton will be back at quarterback and Grayden at linebacker and could play some at running back for Coach Jim DeWald despite having Kyle Robbins coming back at running back and Jack Lewis in the defensive secondary. The Maples have the talent to make another run but depth and program strength will be question marks this offseason.

Troy: The Colts made the postseason for the second straight year but was blown out by Southfield Arts and Tech. Bottom line is that Troy needs to play tougher competition so this doesn’t happen on a consistent basis. The Colts have the majority of their offense coming back led by quarterback Parker Brandenburg and running back Nolan Block. Jalen Peacock leads the defense which was very good all season. Program strength is a concern for Coach Chris Fraiser heading into next season. If there is a team that could take a step back it’s the Colts.

North Farmington: The Raiders had a very rough season this year. North Farmington loses a ton of talent from this senior class and program strength is a serious concern going forward for Coach Jon Herstein. The Raiders have Brandon Rice coming on the offensive and defensive lines along with Thomas Thakady at linebacker, Duke Blanch in the defensive secondary, and wide receiver Will Coleman coming back. Coleman did see some time at quarterback in their 9-0 win over Troy. It’s unknown if Herstein will turn to him to play quarterback next season. North Farmington has some serious questions this offseason to address if they want to make some noise.

Troy Athens: It was a very interesting first season for Coach Tom Cook and the Red Hawks. Troy Athens saw their ups and downs this season. The program is back on the rise after having three teams this year. The Red Hawks should be young again but it’s a very good young. Troy Athens has Anthony Ashor and Charles Robinson coming back at running back and Evan Watson in the defensive secondary. Cook has a good quarterback in Patrick Ciuria also coming back. If the Red Hawks can find some proven linemen and build depth on both sides of the football then they could make some noise next season for sure.

Ferndale: The Eagles had a resurgence this season despite barely getting into the postseason. Ferndale lost a ton of proven experience which they will need to replace next season. Coach Erik Royal will have Leander Neal coming back at wide receiver and also in the defensive secondary, Lavar Cronton on the offensive and defensive lines, Gary Maxwell in the defensive secondary, Bryce Ferguson at linebacker, and Jacoby Young at linebacker and running back. Program strength is a concern for Royal next season. If Royal can keep this program at a high level like he has been doing then there is no reason why the Eagles should be back in this conversation again.

Avondale: It was a much better season for Coach Corey Bell and the Yellow Jackets. Avondale was very competitive this season. They have a proven nucleus coming back in quarterback Tyler Herzog along with Cooper Voeffray and Justin Sykes at wide receiver. The defense should be solid with Matthew Lloyd and Myles Moore at linebacker along with punter Hunter Petras and Alfonso Merritt in the defensive secondary. The offensive and defensive lines has Dhruv Thakur, Charlie Killian, and Cameron Washington coming back. Program strength looks to be on the way up for Bell and his program. The Yellow Jackets need to find a running back for next season but other than that they look ready to make the next step.

Royal Oak: It was a disastrous year for the Ravens which saw their Coach Dustyn Truitt placed on administrative leave. Royal Oak really struggled on the field where they weren’t competitive in most games. The Ravens lose a ton of proven experience. They have running back Nathan Benton and wide receiver Owen Louwers at the skill positions along with Aiden Tesch and Sam Klonke on the offensive and defensive lines and linebackers in Elijah Lyons, Michael Herman, and Steven Johnson coming back. Mindset needs to change if they want to turn this around. If there is a program that needs a complete reboot it’s the Ravens.

Berkley: It was a very disappointing season for the Bears and Coach Sean Shields. Berkley took a major step back as mentioned. The Bears lose a lot of size and talent up front. They have John Passon coming back up front along with quarterback Sunny Kadlicz and defensive back Alex Papadelious. If the Bears want to get back to where they were at last season they have to build on both sides of the football and get back to what Berkley football was all about.

Pontiac:  It has been a really rough 12 years for the Phoenix going 5-82 in that span but there is hope and optimism for next season. Pontiac does have their quarterback Kayne Donaldson coming back along with running back Davieon Hall, Bryce Brown on the offensive and defensive lines, and Debon Johnson in the defensive secondary. The Phoenix will have a new coach next season as Ken Wade stepped down a few weeks ago so there could be a transition period with the new coach. It’s only a matter of time until Pontiac starts getting back in the win column.

Around the OAA: Week Eleven Recap

by orionontv | Nov 7, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Week Eleven Recap

Written Saturday November 5th at 10:30 AM

ADAMS 28, ROCHESTER 14. This was a very odd game on Friday night in Rochester which almost saw an upset occur for the first time since 1996. The Falcons controlled the first half by playing time possession football. Alex Bueno had a one yard quarterback keeper for the Falcons in the second quarter to take a 7-0 lead to the half. Adams would respond in the third behind a fake punt to tie the game but Rochester responded with Grant Calcagno scoring a three yard touchdown to give the Falcons a 14-7 lead. The Highlanders answered with 21 unanswered points starting with a 68 yard rushing touchdown from Parker Picot tying the game at 14-14. Picot would then find Demarcus Rouse for a 20 yard passing touchdown for a 21-14 Adams lead. Picot would add another touchdown from five yards to give the Highlanders a 28-14 lead in which that would wrap up the scoring. Adams would hold off Rochester winning their 25^th straight game over the Falcons and getting to the regional finals for the second straight year. The Highlanders will travel to Clarkston next week for the regionals.

CLARKSTON 49, Davison 40. Ethan Clark has went nuts for the Wolves. He had over 400 yards of total offense, 336 rushing yards, and six touchdowns. Clark had a 12 yard rushing score along with a 26 yard rushing score, a 50 yard touchdown run, and a 65 yard touchdown run for Clarkston. The offensive line should get the most credit. They have done very well for the Wolves to give Clark the holes he needed against a very good Cardinals defense. The Saginaw Valley League player of the year Carter Herriman had a one yard score to start the home team’s scoring on the night while Jaylen Flowers added a 12 yard score for Davison. The Cardinals added a kickoff touchdown in the third quarter but the Wolves responded with Mike Hein scoring a 35 yard rushing score off a quarterback keeper. Davison added a touchdown to make it 35-27 but Clark struck for his fifth rushing touchdown from two yards to increase the Wolves lead to 42-27. The Cardinals responded with another touchdown from 70 yards off a trick play keeping within striking distance at 42-34. Flowers added his second touchdown of the night but Davison failed on the two point conversion attempt to tie the game keeping the score 42-40 Wolves. Clark would add his sixth rushing touchdown going 67 yards to make the score 49-40 Clarkston. The Wolves defense would then rise to the occasion and stop the Cardinals on fourth down keeping the score at 49-40 Clarkston. The Wolves moves onto the regional finals where they will play Adams next week.

GROVES 26, SEAHOLM 12. A ton of missed opportunities and rough breaks for both teams but it was the Falcons that beat the Maples for the second time this season and 11^th of the last 13 times these two rivals have played. Seaholm scored first with Colton Kinnie He had a six yard touchdown run to give the Maples a 6-0 lead. Kyle Robbins added a 51 yard touchdown off the pitch option from Kinnie to make it 12-0 Maples. Groves would score 26 unanswered points. The Falcons started their comeback with a Josh Woods four yard rushing touchdown and added a 26 yard touchdown pass from Cayden Hardy to Jailen Samuel to take the lead. Woods would then go 80 yards for a touchdown in the third to give the Falcons a seven point lead. Groves would then add a 95 yard touchdown from Elias Kendra off the misdirection to increase their lead. The Falcons stopped the Maples veer attack and is now moving onto the regional finals to play Livonia Franklin next week.

Detroit Cass Tech 25, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14. It was going to be a very interesting matchup with the weather conditions not favoring the passing game with the wind. The game started fast when Isiah Marshall started the game with almost throwing a pick six but instead had a 22 yard rushing touchdown to put the Warriors up 7-0 early. The Technicians responded with quarterback Leeshaun Mumpfield rushing from five yards out on their first drive but missed the extra point to make it 7-6 Southfield Arts and Tech. Detroit Cass Tech would take the lead as they scored a passing touchdown from Mumpfield to Elijah Jordan from 30 yards to make it 13-7 Technicians. The Warriors responded with a five yard rushing score from Marshall and a tough extra point making the score 14-13 Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors started with the football but the Detroit Cass Tech defense held firm and went down and scored a 15 yard touchdown run from Mumpfield but missed the two point try for a 19-14 Technicians lead in the third quarter. Detroit Cass Tech would recover the onside kick, very similar strategy against West Bloomfield from last week. It allowed the Technicians to score on a two yard rushing touchdown from Sean Hodges increasing the Detroit Cass Tech lead to 25-14 in the fourth. The Technicians would shut down Southfield Arts and Tech’s high octane offense the rest of the way earning their second win over a top ten team and a measure of revenge from week one. Detroit Cass Tech will head to Macomb Dakota to play the Cougars next week. Another difficult loss for the Warriors. They will be a force next season with a ton of proven experience coming back.

Around the OAA: Postseason Thoughts

by orionontv | Oct 24, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Postseason Thoughts.

Written Sunday October 23rd at 7:40 PM

Here are my thoughts on the postseason matchups that were announced this evening. I will have more coverage on the podcast and more during the week so stay tuned everyone.

Birmingham Brother Rice at AVONDALE: There are some differences from last season compared to this season. This is a rematch of a 58-0 Warriors blowout win over the Yellow Jackets at Wisner Stadium last season. Avondale should be more prepared for Birmingham Brother Rice this time despite being a very tough matchup. This was expected with the winner likely to see Walled Lake Western in the next round.

FARMINGTON at Temperance Bedford: This is an awful matchup for Farmington. They have to travel south on I-275 to I-75 in Monroe County. The Mules are coming off a stunning 7-0 win over Saline two weeks ago. The Falcons have a solid quarterback in Dominic Peshi and running back Cam Pettaway. Either way this is a brutal matchup for Farmington.

FERNDALE at SEAHOLM: This is a very interesting matchup. The Eagles were the last team to get into the postseason in Division Two after winning 54-21 over St. Clair Shores South Lake last week. Seaholm has won five of the last six meetings over Ferndale. The Maples have lost two straight games to close the season. It’s a tough matchup for Ferndale going up against the veer but it’s an opportunity for the Eagles to see if they can matchup against a very good team.

Warren Mott at GROVES: The Falcons earned a big 14-7 win over Seaholm last week not only just to get into the postseason but they get a home game out of this. Groves couldn’t play Warren Mott in the postseason a few years ago because they played an ineligible player and had to forfeit that game. The Marauders really haven’t played the competition that the Falcons have so this is a great matchup for Groves in Beverly Hills.

TROY at SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH: The Warriors got a great first round matchup with the Colts. Southfield Arts and Tech is riding with a ton of confidence heading into the postseason and is coming off a huge 28-21 win over River Rouge last week. Troy has not seen the competition or the quarterback like they will in Isiah Marshall. Expect their defense will be tested. It could be a long night for the Colts in this matchup.

Detroit Cass Tech at WEST BLOOMFIELD: I’m in absolute shock and in horror that the MHSAA unless this is media related which I think it is that they would send Detroit Cass Tech northwest to the Swamp to take on the Lakers. This game ended up being the “Ballys Sports Game of the Week.” The good news for West Bloomfield is that they should have Requan Nance and Semaj Morgan coming back but this is not the matchup that I expected them to get. At least the game is in the Swamp and not on the road.

ROCHESTER at STONEY CREEK: The Falcons have had their problems against their city rivals in Adams and Stoney Creek. They will get one of them in Stoney Creek. It is also a rematch of a 43-22 Cougars win over Rochester two weeks ago that game was also at Stoney Creek. There are a ton of storylines in this game as well especially with Coach Nick Merlo going up against alum school. Rochester needs to exercise their city demons. This could be a start.

LAKE ORION at ADAMS: This is a very interesting matchup and a rematch of two Red rivals. Not to mention that the Dragons and Highlanders met a few weeks ago in Lake Orion with Adams coming out on top 42-21. The Highlanders have been rolling on all cylinders ever since their loss to Clarkston. The Dragons really struggled against Saline. Lake Orion is a team that is playing with nothing to lose.

Lapeer at CLARKSTON: The Lightning have had a Wolves problem in the last seven meetings. This is  a rematch of a 48-13 Clarkston rout of Lapeer two weeks ago. Ethan Clark had four touchdowns in that game. This game is at the Wolves Den which they have only played three games on their home field this season. If I’m the Lightning I am absolutely sick and tired of playing the Wolves and they get them again. If Clarkston wins this game then they could play Davison in the district finals.