by orionontv | Sep 21, 2022 | High School Sports
MHSAA NOW: The weekly newsletter of the Michigan High School Athletic Association
THIS WEEK
Today’s edition includes our latest from “1st & Goal” and “Title IX at 50” plus big news from the golf community and on MHSAA postseason attendance from 2021-22. We’re also especially proud of three of our Student Advisory Council members as they starred in a Title IX celebration video with Bally Sports Detroit.
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AROUND THE STATE
All winning streaks eventually end. And in mentioning them, it is more in recognition of what was accomplished than what is now over. A couple of those endings took center stage during Week 4.
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Tracey finished her senior gymnastics season this past winter with one of the most successful Finals weekends possible. On Friday, she helped Rockford to its first team championship since 2017. At Saturday’s Individual Finals, Tracey earned the Division 2 title with an all-around score of 36.325.
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At a certain point, the competition catches up. And that’s where the Sturgis High School varsity girls golf program — the winningest team at the school over the last decade — finds itself in 2022. A young squad without a senior on the roster is slugging it out this fall in a Wolverine Conference that now boasts plenty of parity.
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The LPGA Professionals have named Saline High School golf coach Debbie Williams-Hoak as its national Coach of the Year. Williams-Hoak was among national award winners who were selected by the LPGA Professionals’ executive committee from a pool of Section Award winners, which were voted on by officers of those regional sections.
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After two school years requiring limited tournament attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021-22 school year saw a total of 1,327,633 fans attend Michigan High School Athletic Association postseason competitions for which attendance is recorded.
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Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials. Here is this week’s segment – Soccer Timing – Listen
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MHSAA Title IX at 50 (Full version)
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MHSAA Football Week 4 Unforgettable 5ive
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Episode 3 | High School Sports Show | 9-16-22 | State Champs! Michigan
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Football Friday’s OT Powered by State Champs! | 9-16-2022
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GAME TIME
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by orionontv | Aug 24, 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.
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Written by Sammy Taormina
Written Tuesday August 23rd at 10:10 AM
Hello to everyone and welcome to the 2022 football season. We will be doing our weekly picks this season so here are the people to get to know.
Sammy Taormina-Host OAA Now, Last Three Brain Cells Podcast, known as SANDY DUNES
Scott Burnstein-State Champs host and MIPrepZone writer, known as BURNEY
Keith Dunlap-Special writer at WDIV, known as DUNLAP
Tim English-Blogger, historian, known as TIM
Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports, known as STICK
Sean Cotter-North Farmington Boys Basketball and Walled Lake Western film guy, known as COTTER
We’ll get TIM’s picks when we get them
SANDY DUNES 0-0
BURNEY 0-0
DUNLAP 0-0
TIM 0-0
STICK 0-0
COTTER 0-0
- West Bloomfield vs Sterling Heights Stevenson at Wayne State: The Lakers should be no strangers to the spotlight. They are on Bally Sports Detroit for the fifth time in the last two years. West Bloomfield has made the postseason eight straight years. They should be no strangers to playing against the Macomb Area Red. Donovan Edwards who is now at Michigan had the game of his life at Runkel Field in a stunning 63-6 blowout of the Titans in the 2020 postseason. It’s the second meeting between the two schools. Sterling Heights Stevenson made the postseason three straight years but fell to Belleville in the Division One State Semifinals last season. This should be a really interesting matchup at Wayne State but West Bloomfield better be careful.
SANDY DUNES: WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 7.
BURNEY: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 14.
DUNLAP: WEST BLOOMFIELD 27, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 17.
TIM:
STICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD over STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON.
COTTER: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 14.
Orchard Lake St. Marys at 2. Adams: The Highlanders should be hungry for more success after making the Division One State Finals last season. They have the majority of their team coming back despite losing some key players to graduation. Adams coach Tony Patritto should be no stranger to playing against George Poritt led Orchard Lake St. Marys programs or the Catholic League itself. The Eaglets have a new coach in former Michigan standout Jermaine Gonzales. It’s the first meeting between these two schools Patritto should know them quite well prior to coming to Adams.
SANDY DUNES: ADAMS 27, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 20.
BURNEY: ADAMS 32, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 29.
DUNLAP: ADAMS 31, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 20.
TIM:
STICK: ADAMS over ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS.
COTTER: ADAMS 24, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 7.
- Clarkston vs Davison at Michigan: This is a rematch of a hard fought 29-26 Wolves victory over the Cardinals last season in Ann Arbor. Clarkston has won all five meetings against Davison whether it was in the regular season or in the postseason. The Cardinals will have to deal with Ethan Clark. Clark had a monster game against them last season. Davison has not fared well against the OAA. They are 0-7 against the league since 2010 (Adams doesn’t count because they had to forfeit because of COVID protocol.) Clarkston needs to be careful despite having Michigan experience. The Cardinals have a tough schedule and getting a win like this would make their season.
SANDY DUNES: CLARKSTON 27, DAVISON 24.
BURNEY: CLARKSTON 28, DAVISON 23.
DUNLAP: DAVISON 35, CLARKSTON 31.
TIM:
STICK: CLARKSTON over DAVISON.
COTTER: DAVISON 31, CLARKSTON 28.
- Southfield Arts and Tech vs Detroit Cass Tech at Lawrence Tech: This is a rematch of two programs that know each other very well. The Technicians won 49-22 over the Warriors at Wayne State. The game was moved to Lawrence Tech which is in Southfield this season. The Warriors defense was a complete disaster allowing 346 points which was the most in school history last season. Southfield Arts and Tech has a high octane offense led by quarterback Isiah Marshall. Detroit Cass Tech has athletes too and they are stout as well. They have made the postseason 15 of the last 16 years. This should be a shootout but whoever’s defense shows up should win this game.
SANDY DUNES: DETROIT CASS TECH 70, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 56.
BURNEY: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 30, DETROIT CASS TECH 15.
DUNLAP: DETROIT CASS TECH 31, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.
TIM:
STICK: DETROIT CASS TECH over SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH.
COTTER: DETROIT CASS TECH 42, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28.
- Lake Orion at Utica Eisenhower: This is the 11thmeeting between the two schools. The Dragons and Eagles are no strangers to each other whether it is in the regular season or especially in the postseason. Utica Eisenhower beat Lake Orion 27-20 in the 2019 postseason but the Dragons have gotten the best of the Eagles in 2008, 2010, 2012 in the postseason and last season’s 33-7 blowout. Utica Eisenhower has Preston Crumm back at quarterback while Lake Orion should be much improved defensively. This could be a low scoring game with both teams usually have stout defenses. It should be very interesting at Sweinhart Field.
SANDY DUNES: LAKE ORION 24, UTICA EISENHOWER 20.
BURNEY: LAKE ORION 27, UTICA EISENHOWER 26.
DUNLAP: LAKE ORION 28, UTICA EISENHOWER 24.
TIM:
STICK: LAKE ORION over UTICA EISENHOWER.
COTTER: LAKE ORION 28, UTICA EISENHOWER 21.
- Harper Woods at Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy: This is the second meeting between these two city rivals in what is dubbed “The Backyard Brawl.” The Pioneers won 15-12 over the Eagles in 2009. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy forfeited their year last season but they were 6-2 technically. Harper Woods has a ton of proven players coming back. The Pioneers need to be on upset alert especially going up against a program that is much better than their record indicates.
SANDY DUNES: HARPER WOODS 24, CHANDLER PARK 21.
BURNEY: HARPER WOODS 31, CHANDLER PARK 17.
DUNLAP: HARPER WOODS 23, CHANDLER PARK 16.
TIM:
STICK: HARPER WOODS over CHANDLER PARK.
COTTER: HARPER WOODS 39, CHANDLER PARK 8.
Milan at 7. Berkley: The Bears are 12-6 and have two postseason appearances. Berkley will be a different team according to Coach Sean Shields. They are trying to get to their goal which is a league crown which looks very manageable. The Bears should be tested against a very good Milan program. The Big Reds have made the postseason 15 of the last 18 years. Milan is 35-8 since 2018. This is going to be a very tough matchup at Hurley Field to say the least.
SANDY DUNES: BERKLEY 35, MILAN 32.
BURNEY: BERKLEY 24, MILAN 20.
DUNLAP: BERKLEY 17, MILAN 13.
TIM:
STICK: BERKLEY over MILAN
COTTER: BERKLEY 24, MILAN 21.
Seaholm at 8. Bloomfield Hills: This is third meeting between these two neighborhood rivals and the first meeting since 2017 when Bloomfield Hills won 21-19. Seaholm won the first meeting 38-21 in 2014. This is a very interesting matchup of two different styles. The Blackhawks are more of a spread team while the Maples are more of a veer team. The quarterback matchup is very intriguing between CJ Jackson of Bloomfield Hills and Colton Kinnie of Seaholm. Whoever wins the battle of intangibles wins this game.
SANDY DUNES: SEAHOLM 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.
BURNEY: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, SEAHOLM 27.
DUNLAP: SEAHOLM 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 24.
TIM:
STICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS over SEAHOLM.
COTTER: SEAHOLM 26, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.
- Stoney Creek at Detroit Mumford: This is the first meeting between the Cougars and the Mustangs. Stoney Creek was supposed to play Port Huron but the Big Reds are playing Grand Rapids Catholic Central instead. Detroit Mumford is 6-10 in the last two years. The Cougars have a veteran team. This should be very interesting in Detroit.
SANDY DUNES: STONEY CREEK 28, DETROIT MUMFORD 12.
BURNEY: STONEY CREEK 25, DETROIT MUMFORD 20.
DUNLAP: STONEY CREEK 35, DETROIT MUMFORD 7.
TIM:
STICK: STONEY CREEK over DETROIT MUMFORD.
COTTER: STONEY CREEK 32 DETROIT MUMFORD 8.
- Oxford at Romeo: These two schools are no strangers to each other having played since 2014. The Wildcats are 7-25 against the Bulldogs. Oxford fell 34-13 to Romeo last season in a game that was closer than the score indicated. The Bulldogs have a ton of experience coming back. The Wildcats have not fared well at Dan Barnabo Field. It should be very interesting to see what happens.
SANDY DUNES: ROMEO 24, OXFORD 20.
BURNEY: OXFORD 25, ROMEO 24.
DUNLAP: OXFORD 27, ROMEO 20.
TIM:
STICK: ROMEO over OXFORD.
COTTER: ROMEO 27, OXFORD 7.
Utica at Rochester: This is the 25th meeting between the Falcons and the Chieftains. Rochester has won three straight and won the 2012 and 2013 meetings by a combined 66-21 including a 28-14 victory in 2013. The last time that Utica beat Rochester was in 1979 when they won 26-0. The Chieftains have been improving, they made the postseason last season. The Falcons should have their hands full in this game at Rochester Stadium.
SANDY DUNES: ROCHESTER 28, UTICA 14.
BURNEY: ROCHESTER 36, UTICA 21.
DUNLAP: ROCHESTER 28, UTICA 7.
TIM:
STICK: ROCHESTER over UTICA.
COTTER: ROCHESTER 31, UTICA 14.
North Farmington at Groves: These are two teams that are trying to turn around tough seasons and losing streaks. The Raiders lost six straight games which caused them to miss the postseason for the first time in three years. North Farmington’s last win came against Groves when they won 49-0 at Ron Holland Field. The Falcons missed the postseason for the first time in eight years last season. Groves wants to get back to where they have been. This is the 18th meeting between the two schools with the Raiders holding a 10-7 season series edge. This game should be tight in Beverly Hills.
SANDY DUNES: NORTH FARMINGTON 20, GROVES 17.
BURNEY: NORTH FARMINGTON 21, GROVES 20.
DUNLAP: GROVES 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 20.
TIM:
STICK: NORTH FARMINGTON over GROVES.
COTTER: NORTH FARMINGTON 21, GROVES 14.
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit at Oak Park: These two neighborhood rivals are no strangers to one another. They are separated by four miles and are in the same district for boys basketball almost every year. The Knights are 2-1 against the Cubs. They have met in the postseason three times. Oak Park won 27-21 at Hazel Park in the 2020 district finals and 26-17 in the first round in 2016. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit won 14-8 in the district finals in the 2013 postseason. This should be a very interesting matchup in Knight Valley.
SANDY DUNES: OAK PARK 28, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 21.
BURNEY: OAK PARK 24, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 23.
DUNLAP: DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 14, OAK PARK 7.
TIM:
STICK: OAK PARK over DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT.
COTTER: OAK PARK 22, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 21.
Troy Athens at Fraser: This is the first meeting between the two schools. The Red Hawks have a new coach in Tom Cook taking over the program. Troy Athens is 12-64 since 2012 but won five games last season. Fraser is coming into this season with high expectations. The Ramblers are 10-7 with two postseason appearances. They were 10-35 since 2015 prior to the two years. The Red Hawks are a different team. This should be a very interesting matchup.
SANDY DUNES: TROY ATHENS 20, FRASER 17.
BURNEY: TROY ATHENS 26, FRASER 25.
DUNLAP: FRASER 28, TROY ATHENS 17.
TIM:
STICK: TROY ATHENS over FRASER.
COTTER: TROY ATHENS 33, FRASER 14.
Troy at Macomb L’Anse Creuse North: This is the first meeting between the two schools. It has been a strong two years for the Colts. Troy is 12-6 in that span. The last time they took on a Macomb County opponent they were embarrassed 33-0 on regional television in the first round of the postseason by Chippewa Valley. The Crusaders are 0-14 in the last two years and 7-33 since 2016. This should be a cakewalk for the Colts but if not then let the criticism began.
SANDY DUNES: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 20, TROY 14.
BURNEY: TROY 27, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 17.
DUNLAP: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 24, TROY 20.
TIM:
STICK: TROY over MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH.
COTTER: TROY 34, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 7.
Ypsilanti Lincoln at Farmington: This is the second meeting between the Falcons and the Railsplitters but the first at Falcon Field. Farmington won 35-14 in Ypsilanti in 2019. The Falcons will look to have a bounce back year after going 4-12 in the last two seasons. Ypsilanti Lincoln is 13-21 since 2017. This should be a very interesting matchup at Falcon Field.
SANDY DUNES: FARMINGTON 24, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 21.
BURNEY: FARMINGTON 33, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 19.
DUNLAP: FARMINGTON 10, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 7.
TIM:
STICK: FARMINGTON over YPSILANTI LINCOLN.
COTTER: FARMINGTON 28, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 21.
Ferndale at Macomb L’Anse Creuse: This will be the first meeting between the two schools. It was a very rough year for the Eagles which was un Coach Eric Royal like. They were not the same program since losing to Royal Oak last season. Ferndale heads into Macomb County to take on Macomb L’Anse Creuse. The Lancers have made the postseason three straight years and is 18-10 in that span. This is going to be a very difficult matchup for the Eagles.
SANDY DUNES: FERNDALE 24, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 17.
BURNEY: FERNDALE 22, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 18.
DUNLAP: FERNDALE 21, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 20.
TIM:
STICK: FERNDALE over MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE
COTTER: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 42, FERNDALE 6.
Royal Oak at Holly: This is going to be a really interesting matchup which will be on grass which could be an advantage for the Bronchos. It’s also a battle of new coaches between Dustyn Truitt at Royal Oak and Billy Keenest at Holly. Keenest is no stranger to the OAA coaching at Troy Athens and Berkley and is an Oxford alumni as well. Truitt is a Farmington alumni which makes this matchup the more interesting. The quarterback battle should be very interesting between Hudson Siddle and Ashton DeHart. The Ravens have Mekahi Jenkins which gives them an edge up front. This should be a classic battle up front as both teams are trying to get off to good starts.
SANDY DUNES: HOLLY 24, ROYAL OAK 20.
BURNEY: ROYAL OAK 28, HOLLY 15.
DUNLAP: ROYAL OAK 14, HOLLY 10.
TIM:
STICK: HOLLY over ROYAL OAK.
COTTER: HOLLY 27, ROYAL OAK 7.
Avondale at Warren Cousino: This is the seventh meeting all time between the Yellow Jackets and the Patriots but the first meeting since 2001. Warren Cousino is 6-37 since 2017. Avondale is 11-15 in their last three years. On paper this looks like a mismatch but you never know.
SANDY DUNES: AVONDALE 42, WARREN COUSINO 0.
BURNEY: AVONDALE 23, WARREN COUSINO 22.
DUNLAP: WARREN COUSINO 20, AVONDALE 17.
TIM:
STICK: AVONDALE over WARREN COUSINO.
COTTER: AVONDALE 49, WARREN COUSINO 7.
Madison Heights Bishop Foley at Pontiac: This is the first meeting between the Phoenix and the Ventures. Pontiac was supposed to take one Detroit Osborn in what would had been a much easier matchup but instead went with a much tougher matchup against Madison Heights Bishop Foley. The Ventures are well coached under Coach Brian Barnes. This will not be an easy matchup for Coach Ken Wade and company but the good news it’s at home.
SANDY DUNES: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 28, PONTIAC 26.
BURNEY: PONTIAC 21, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 17.
DUNLAP: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 24, PONTIAC 7.
TIM:
STICK: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY over PONTIAC.
COTTER: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 49, PONTIAC 6.
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Friday, August 19, 2022
Written Friday August 19th at 9:30 PM
Here is my early preview for Volleyball heading into the season.
AROUND THE OAA TOP TEN
- Clarkston
- Berkley
- Oxford
- Lake Orion
- Stoney Creek
- Adams
- Seaholm
- Bloomfield Hills
- Troy
- West Bloomfield
Red
Clarkston
Oxford
Lake Orion
Adams
Stoney Creek
Seaholm
Bloomfield Hills
Troy
EARLY THOUGHTS: When looking at the Red. Clarkston is the team that stands out. They have a ton of experience coming back. Oxford looks to be the top challenger to Clarkston. The Wildcats have a solid core coming back. Lake Orion returns one of the most dangerous outside hitters in the State but there are some questions surrounding the Dragons. Adams should be solid this season. Stoney Creek as well should be in the mix. Seaholm is a wildcard in the Red. Bloomfield Hills has a new coach but has looked solid early. Troy should be a team to watch for as well. The Wolves are the early favorite with the proven experience that is back.
White
Berkley
West Bloomfield
North Farmington
Groves
Rochester
Farmington
Troy Athens
Avondale
EARLY THOUGHTS: When looking at the White. Berkley made a ton of strides last season. I think the Bears are ready for some more and they could have a deep postseason run if things go right. The Bears have a ton of proven experience coming back. West Bloomfield has a ton of proven experience coming back. North Farmington has some experience coming back. Groves could be a factor this season. Rochester has some experience coming back. Farmington lost a lot of talent from last season. Troy Athens will be very young this season. Avondale could make some noise as well this season. Overall this division looks like three teams have a shot but it’s anyone’s division.
Blue
Ferndale
Royal Oak
Harper Woods
Ferndale University
Southfield Arts and Tech
Oak Park
Pontiac
EARLY THOUGHTS: The Blue is not a strong division when looking at it on paper. Ferndale is the early favorite. The Eagles have proven experience and have been there and done that. Royal Oak could surprise some people. The Ravens have some proven experience coming back. Harper Woods is the new team on the block. There are some questions surrounding the Pioneers. Ferndale University is the darkhorse. The Eagles could surprise some people. Southfield Arts and Tech has been up and down. Oak Park has struggled recently as has Pontiac. I think Ferndale has the edge over everyone in this division.
by orionontv | Aug 8, 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.
Friday, August 5, 2022
By Sammy Taormina
Written Friday August 5th at 8:30 PM
Here are my grades on the 2022 OAA Football uniforms heading into the season. Enjoy.
Red
Clarkston (Uniform Provider-Nike): I really like the Wolves uniforms. The road uniforms are all white with blue numbering to go along with white pants with blue stripes on the sides. The blue Michigan helmet makes this look one of the best around the league. The home uniforms are solid as well with the all blue look even though I’m not a huge fan of the white trim on them. The all white look looks very good, wish they would bring back the name plates. GRADE A.
Lake Orion (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Dragons are going back old school with the football uniforms. The all green and all white with the green V-Neck look is classic Lake Orion. There are no stripes or no LO V-neck collar, just a simple classic look with names on the back. The only down side is the road uniforms say DRAGONS as well and not LAKE ORION. The pants have the classic stripes on the sides with the Dragons logo and the green helmet makes it a perfect uniform. Finally a jersey that Coach Chris Bell got right and it’s me approved. GRADE A.
Adams (Uniform Provider-Adidas): The Highlanders have a yellow helmet with the Adams A on one side and the player number on the other side. There was talk about putting the script Adams which I questioned why they would do that. The home yellow is okay but not great, it is an upgrade over the brown jerseys and white pants look and or the brown and yellow look. The road whites are different with the brown and yellow stripes on the elbows. They look very similar to the North Farmington jerseys. Adams completely changed the design. I’m not a fan of these jerseys, not at all. GRADE D.
West Bloomfield (Uniform Provider-Home/Road-Nike, Third Jersey-Russell Athletic): The Lakers haven’t changed much with their uniforms. The white pants are classic along with the green and white uniforms. The third uniforms are solid as well. The helmet needs work, great design but needs a paint job. Green helmet would be much better and smoother. GRADE A-
Stoney Creek (Uniform Provider- Home/Road-Under Armor, Third Jersey-Zenith): I really like the Cougars uniforms. They have name plates on the back and they can wear any pants whether gold, blue, or white. The helmet needs a redesign a little bit. I’m a fan of the gold helmet but not the design with the SC on one side and the player number on the other side. The Armor Up on the V-Neck looks very good. The traditions are great. I didn’t mention their military uniforms but they look very good as well. The third jersey is the all gold, I really like that jersey as well. Overall great uniform designs. GRADE A.
Oxford (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Wildcats have a classic simple uniform whether it’s the home blue or road white uniforms. They went with a yellow helmet which is different from past tradition when they wore blue helmets. The design needs some work with the O on one side and the player number on the other side. The simple plain uniform looks very nice especially with yellow or blue pants. Oxford should NEVER wear white pants under any circumstance. White pants have been bad luck in the past. GRADE A.
White
Harper Woods (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Pioneers have an interesting uniform combination. They have three helmets and a very good uniform design. I like the black and maroon helmet much better than their white helmets. The uniform top looks great whether if it’s maroon, black, or white jerseys and pants. The black or maroon helmets make the uniform look very strong but the white helmet, not so much. GRADE B.
Harper Woods Twitter. https://twitter.com/HW__Football/status/1553813051580846081
Southfield Arts and Tech (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Warriors finally got out of the Adidas looks and went to Nike. They look so much better in the Nike uniforms but the helmet needs to go back to blue or something, white is not a good look for the helmet. Great uniform and pants but the helmet needs a paint job and quick. GRADE B.
Oak Park (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Knights changed uniforms last season. I really like the home red uniforms with the name OAK PARK on the crest with white pants with the Knights logo. The all white look looks great with the black helmets however the rumor on the street is that the Knights are going to white helmets. Overall I like the uniform design looks good but if they change to white helmets that’s a bit of a concern. GRADE B.
Groves (Uniform Provider-Nike, Third Jersey-Zenith): The Falcons have a great home uniform but a subpar road uniform. The green helmet is great with the old classic Atlanta Falcons bird on both sides of the helmet. The home green, gold, and black look is a great look for the Falcons. The road white uniforms are too plain. It’s not like two years ago with that look, now that was a great look, the current look not so much. The alternate uniforms look good, the yellow jerseys look solid with the Falcons wings on the top of the jerseys. Great design to say the least. GRADE B.
Rochester (Uniform Provider-Under Armor): The Falcons went back to tradition and no gimmicks. Rochester has an all blue uniform with a blue helmet and a road white look with a blue helmet. They have an alternate black look for a game if it’s a big one. I like that they finally figured out the uniform design and not go all Oregon like they did a few years ago which was the definition of fashion disaster. GRADE A.
Bloomfield Hills (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Blackhawks went back to black helmets which made the most sense and brought a black uniform with purple lettering. I like this uniform a lot. The white uniforms look solid as well for Coach Dan Loria with the helmet. I like the uniforms as mentioned. GRADE A.
Blue
North Farmington (Uniform Provider-Home/Road-Nike, Third Jersey-Zenith): The Raiders went with three jerseys last season. The all black uniforms look very good. I also liked their home and road uniforms. They have the right design on the helmet but need to repaint the helmet. I think a gold or brown would make most sense with their jerseys. The uniforms look very good but they need to repaint the helmets. GRADE B.
Seaholm (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Maples went back to Maple helmets and went with an all Maple look at home and all white on the road. I think its ok but it’s not like the uniforms from two years ago. I wished the Maple helmet were with the old uniforms of the past. It’s an ok look but the jerseys are too plain. GRADE B.
Troy (Uniform Provider-Home-Nike, Road-Adidas): The Colts home uniforms look very good with the all black with the names on the back of the uniforms. The road whites are a complete disaster. The Adidas logo shows front and center with the TROY name and numbering in black font with the Colts logo on the elbows. It’s not a good look. If there is a team that really needs to change their road uniforms, this is it. GRADE C.
Troy Athens (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Red Hawks classic uniform design I really like with the gold helmet, red jersey, and gold pants. It’s the traditional look. They will wear red pants at times as well. The all white on the road looks very strong as well. I would like for Coach Tom Cook to at least put a Red Hawk bird on the helmet and not an A. The names on the back of the uniforms are perfect. I love the Nike uniforms they wear. GRADE A.
Farmington (Uniform Provider-Nike): This is not the best design when it comes to uniforms. I don’t like the helmet being white but the Falcon wings make up for it. The all blue look looks very good but the helmet doesn’t click. If there is a team that could go back to a classic look like they did with the Penn State look then Farmington might have a great shot to do so. GRADE B.
Gold
Berkley (Uniform Provider-Nike): This is one of the best uniform combos. I really like the all maroon look with maroon pants and blue helmets. The road uniform looks sharp as well. Both have name plates on the back. The helmet fits really nicely. Great uniform, yes indeed. GRADE A.
Royal Oak (Uniform Provider-???): The Ravens went with new uniforms on media day. The new jerseys have the Ravens name in white with blue numbering. The elbows are much better with the blue, white, blue stripes. The road ones are the same design. They have a black helmet to go with it. I forgot the designer they told me. This is a much better look and they made a video about the new uniforms. GRADE A.
Royal Oak Twitter. https://twitter.com/ROHSFootball/status/1555634102019280897
Ferndale (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Eagles changed uniforms last season going to an all brown look. They still have an all yellow look and an all white look as well. The helmet is dark brown which I really like a lot. This is a great uniform that can make the colors work to their advantage. GRADE A.
Pontiac (Uniform Provider-Home-Russell Athletic, Third Jersey-Zenith, Road-Nike): The Phoenix have a solid color scheme. Pontiac has their traditional home purple uniforms with black pants. They wore a new black uniform with purple wings on them during Media Day, I really like them a ton. The road is white with all white uniforms looks very solid. I like the purple helmet, it matches all three uniforms very well. Pontiac does have three different uniform providers but I’ll live with it. GRADE A.
Avondale (Uniform Provider-Home/Third Jersey-Nike, Road-Adidas): The Yellow Jackets changed their home uniforms last season. I really like their home purple uniforms with the yellow pants. It’s very classic. I am not a fan of their road uniforms. I think the AVONDALE name is too small with the Adidas logo front and center along with the white pants. The all black third jerseys looks sharp. I want them to change the road uniforms, they are in need of an upgrade. GRADE B-
by Becky Andrus | Jul 8, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Boys Basketball Districts are Out-2023.
Written Tuesday June 21st at 11:15 PM
Hello to everyone, these are the Boys Basketball Districts. The Girls Basketball Districts will be out tomorrow.
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
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, had the top seed in the district, and home court but 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 struggled last season with a late coaching change two weeks before the season started last season. The Captains have Tommy Knibbs, Isac Moore, Will Campbell, Kevin Meredith, and Christopher Bowman coming back for former Farmington Hills Harrison and Hazel Park coach Stefan Wilson. Pontiac really struggled last season and will look to have a bounce back season. The Phoenix have Daveon Hall, Tyree Long, and Carter Douglas coming back for Coach Dameon O’Neil. Avondale is a sleeper in this district. They have 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.
District 5 @ Utica Eisenhower
LAKE ORION
STONEY CREEK
ROCHESTER
ADAMS
Romeo
Utica Eisenhower
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Adams, 2. Utica Eisenhower
FAVORITE: Adams
NEXT: Utica Eisenhower
DARKHORSE: Lake Orion
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Ethan Mychajulk-Utica Eisenhower
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season. 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 Rochester Adams. Utica Eisenhower really improved during the second half of last year but fell to the Dragons in the district semifinals last season. They have proven experience and home court in the district. 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. They have a new coach. The Cougars have Peyton Rummler, Tre Walker, Leo Kent, Tommasso Sincola, and Jonah McCay coming back for new coach Jeff Olind. Adams should be the favorite despite losing a lot of proven experience from winning the district crown last season. The Highlanders have Brady Prieskorn and Peter Karakasis coming back for Coach Jaret Thomas. Rochester should be very interesting. 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 in this district despite making the district finals and getting the top seed last season. When they are motivated and have that chip on the shoulder they are very dangerous. The Dragons have Nate Havrilla, DJ Morrow, J’Mari Wiggins, Jordan Morse, Kevin Tobe, Brady Harwood, and Blake Leidell coming back for Coach Jose Andreadas. This is a very interesting district as mentioned, anything is possible.
District 4 @ Grand Blanc
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 as last season. Grand Blanc has a ton of storylines. They have a new coach in Tory Jackson. Jackson has a ton of coaching experience at Bay City John Glenn. He takes over for Mike Thomas whom left to take the East Kentwood coaching job. Thomas led the Bobcats to two State Final appearances, winning the title in 2021 but 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 but they will have home court. 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 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 young core that had a ton of ups and downs last season. They have made a ton of strides this offseason. 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 is a sleeper in this district. I wonder what Chicago Brothers Pizza Owner Dan Brown has to say about this district??? The Wildcats have Dominic Cassisse, Logan Rozanski, Lucas Botette, Jake Champagne, Kyle DiMalanta, Keaton Lynn, and Dylan Stone coming back for Coach Steve Laidlaw. Grand Blanc right now is the favorite but watch for Oxford and Davison as both teams could give the Bobcats some fits.
District 25 @ Berkley
BERKLEY
ROYAL OAK
OAK PARK
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit Mumford
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, 2. Detroit Renaissance
FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
NEXT: Detroit Renaissance
DARKHORSE: Oak Park
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Sonny Wilson-Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit is the early favorite in this district because of their recent history and playing in the tough Catholic League will get you better for sure. They won the district and made the regional finals last season falling to Orchard Lake St. Marys. 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 waiting in the wings as well. Detroit Mumford had a really rough season last year. The Mustangs should be better for Coach Anthony Woods. Detroit Renaissance should be Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit’s toughest challenger in this district. They won 15 games but fell to the Cubs in the district semifinals last season. The Phoenix have Lance Stone, Dion Stinson, Jayson Gamblin, Jacob White, and Jayden Savoury coming back for Coach John White. Berkley can’t seem to get a break with the district despite having home court for the district. 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 sleeper in this district. They will be looking to get that elusive district crown after falling to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit in the past two years (district semifinals in double overtime and in the 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. They won the Gold last season and are looking for more. 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.
District 26 @ North Farmington
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 very interesting district. Detroit Henry Ford comes into this district while Redford Thurston got moved to a different district. North Farmington should be the favorite in the district. They could be a possible State title contender with the proven experience they have coming back and they have home court for the second straight year. The Raiders have 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 improved. 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 in Greg Davis, Davier Burt, Quantie Pryor, Ethan Taylor, Bryce Hewins, Kayel Sims, Nicholas Hardy, Matt Young, and Juwan Ramsey coming back. They don’t have a coach yet. Detroit Henry Ford won 11 games last season under Coach Ken Flowers. The Trojans should be North Farmington’s toughest challenger in the district. Livonia Stevenson 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 won this district last season but Detroit Henry Ford could give them fits, something to watch.
District 27 @ Bloomfield Hills
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
GROVES
SEAHOLM
WEST BLOOMFIELD
Birmingham Brother Rice
Orchard Lake St. Marys
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. Birmingham Brother Rice
FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys
NEXT: Birmingham Brother Rice
DARKHORSE: West Bloomfield
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Curtis Williams-Birmingham Brother Rice
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district with all six very proven teams. 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 this district for the second straight season. The Eaglets have Trey McKenny, 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. Birmingham Brother Rice has a ton of proven experience. They 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, DJ Lee, CJ Jackson, Brandon Newland, Ahmad Taylor, and Henry Jackson coming back for new Coach Brian Canfield. Groves is very interesting. They have had a ton of ups and downs and they have a new coach whom is very familiar with the program. The Falcons have Jack Abbott, Max Kramer, Elijah Yelder, Myles McClary, Brody Tushman, and Josh Gibson coming back for returning Coach Marc West. They also have Josh Simpson as well. Seaholm is 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 as well in the program. This will be a very interesting district as mentioned but the Catholic League stands out but watch for West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills.
District 28 @ Sterling Heights Stevenson
TROY
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Utica Ford II
Utica
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Troy, 2. Sterling Heights Stevenson
FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Sterling Heights Stevenson
DARKHORSE: Troy Athens
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Zach Penoza-Troy
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very interesting district in Macomb County. Troy is the early favorite in this district. 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. 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 has a ton of proven experience and home court. 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 last season. The Cheiftans have Logan Davis, Mason Brodi, Trent McFarland, Sebastian Soriano, Jack Malone, Nick Bosilkovski, Nathan Silver and Austin Lemerise coming back for Coach Tom McDonald. Utica Ford II should be much improved. 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 but Sterling Heights Stevenson and Troy Athens should have strong says.
District 59 @ TBA
FERNDALE
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY
Hazel Park
Detroit Lincoln King Academy
Detroit Old Redford
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Ferndale, 2. Detroit Lincoln King Academy
FAVORITE: Ferndale
NEXT Detroit Lincoln King Academy
DARKHORSE Detroit Old Redford
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. 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 is a really tough district. Whoever wins this district and gets home court will be in line for a very competitive district.
District 30 @ Grosse Pointe North
HARPER WOODS
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
Roseville
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Roseville, 2. St. Clair Shores Lakeview
FAVORITE: Roseville
NEXT: St. Clair Shores Lakeview
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 is the early favorite coming into this district. They won 13 games but fell to 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 off very well early but they 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 Coach Andrew Ayrault. 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 in this district after falling in a heartbreaker to St. Clair Shores LakeShore 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.
Here is the Boys Basketball Districts from the MHSAA Website
https://www.mhsaa.com/Sports/Boys-Basketball/2023-Districts
by Becky Andrus | Jul 8, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Girls Basketball Districts are Out-2023.
Written Wednesday June 22nd at 10:40 AM
Hello everyone, these are the Girls Basketball districts.
If Basketball coaches want their thoughts on their districts posted on the blog please DM me on Twitter and I’ll get them on there.
This article will be updated very often.
District 4 @ Lapeer
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
EARLY THOUGHTS: There were plenty of surprises and this district brought me a huge surprise. Flint Kearsley got moved to a different district. 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. They have proven experience. The Wildcats have Peyton Richter, Nevaeh Wood, Allison Hufstedlar, Sophia Rabb, Brady Elling, Isabella Rushlow, Paige Rushlow, Avery Feeny, Lexi Yankee, Emma Morris, and Miranda Wyniemko coming back for Coach Rachel Bryer. Lapeer had a really rough year last season but they have a new coach. 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 should be very interesting this season. The Cardinals have Gracie Little, Lillian Kish, Gabi Stevens, Marionna Dixon, Skyler Miller, Katie O’ Connor, and Lily Morey 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 it rough going north in this district. The Bronchos have Alana Simmons, Annabelle Basham, Audrey Combs, McKenna McGhee, Morgan Fluckey, Annalease Thiese, and Mollina 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.
District 5 @ Rochester
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 has the same teams from last season but Lake Orion was moved to a different district. Rochester is the early favorite in the district however they have not gotten past the district finals in each of the last four years. They have home court however one of those four losses was to 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, Melina Troy, Trinia Mollicone, and Lindsey Gleason coming back for Coach Bill Thurston. Rochester’s toughest challenger should be Stoney Creek. They should be motivated after having a disappointing postseason falling to Lake Orion in the district semifinals last season. The Cougars have Sarah LaPrarie, Emily Flynn, Mia Carson, Liberty Allen, Merrick Schwalbach, and Lily Solek coming back for Coach Kellen James. Adams should be very interesting despite struggling with the transition 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 in this district. 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. They will have a new coach with Katy Bosheers stepping down which was very surprising. The Bulldogs have Eva Hill, Ava McMillan, Clare Carmody, Elise Rilley, Amanda Kitchen, Jacqueline LeBlanc, Gabriella Matina, and Rachel Miller coming back but they do not have a new coach yet as mentioned. This district looks to be very interesting. Three teams standout but anything is possible.
District 6 @ Clarkston
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: 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 of the game and fell to Hartland in the regional finals. They have some talent coming back despite losing their two top players from graduation and 18 games last season. The Wolves have Ava Hernandez, Mia Zorski, Emily Valencia, Kierra Tolmie, Ellery Hernandez, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Anna Thomas, Claire Walker, Olivia Gray and Brooklyn Covert coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Clarkston also has home court for the district. Lake Orion enters this district after winning a different district. They won 18 games and was in it for three and a half quarters in their regional semifinal against Clarkston last season. The Dragons have Chloe Wiegers, Maddie Ebbert, Kylie Heck, Taylor Dinda, Audrey Wischmeyer, Ryann Pawalcyzk, Grace Sullivan, Ali May, Fontana Blackney, Bella Gonzales coming back for Coach Bob Brydges. Pontiac should be much improved this season for former Oakland University men’s basketball standout and Coach Rawle Marshall. Waterford Kettering lost some 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 Coach George Yarberry. Waterford Mott was very young last season. They should be much improved. 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.
District 7 @ Lakeland
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: Walled Lake Central
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 as well but they were put in different regionals but they are in the same district. West Bloomfield is loaded with 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 after getting to the regional semifinals where they fell to a very good Hartland program 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. 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 John Sharpe. Walled Lake Central was very young last season. They are a sleeper in the district. 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.
District 25 @ Berkley
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
EARLY THOUGHTS: There are a ton of storylines heading into this district. Detroit Renaissance was heavily favored in this district and had home court. There was mentions that they could make another trip to the Division One State finals however they were upset by Berkley in the district finals on their home floor last season. The Bears middle of the pack in the White but that game against the Phoenix gave them confidence heading into this season. They have home court for the district. Berkley lost a few standouts from last season but they have 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 really rough year last season. They are 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 had a ton of success as of late. The Mustangs should be in the mix for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance hasn’t forgotten what happened last season in the district finals. The Phoenix have Imani Johnson, Christian Sanders, Nevaeh Otis, Makayla Coleman, Aubrey Johnson, Sterling Gooden, Makayla Johnson, Azaria Huggins, Kiyla Brooks, Haramonie Bolton, Kayln Southern, and Nyana Pharr coming back for Coach Shane Lawal. Oak Park really struggled to score last season. The Knights should be better for Coach Chantelle Corson. This district should be very interesting to watch as mentioned at Berkley.
District 26 @ North Farmington
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: Farmington
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Sela Lefler-North Farmington
EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a very interesting district on paper. It looks to be a two team district final but maybe a third team could emerge as a possible sleeper. Farmington Hills Mercy is the early favorite. 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 talent from last season but they always seem to be in the mix. 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 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. Livonia Stevenson made the district finals falling to Farmington Hills Mercy last season. The Spartans have Gracie Shahu and Scarlett Webster coming back for Coach Kareem Smart. This is shaping to be a very interesting district as mentioned but this district stands like it’s the Marlins to lose for now.
District 27 @ Birmingham Marian
GROVES
SEAHOLM
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
TROY
Birmingham Marian
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Seaholm
FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Seaholm
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. 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 Lizzie Butzyzk, Charlotte Gillion, Avery Allen, Shaivani Angadi, Victoria Siegan, Raegan Zeiter, and Zoe Silver coming back for Coach Julius Porter. Seaholm had a very strong year winning the Blue but 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. They fell 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.
District 28 @ Avondale
AVONDALE
TROY ATHENS
Sterling Heights Stevenson
Utica
Utica Ford II
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Sterling Heights Stevenson, 2. Utica Ford II
FAVORITE: Sterling Heights Stevenson
NEXT: Utica Ford II
DARKHORSE: Utica
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. They have home court in 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 mentioning about. They have a great shot to win this 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. The Titans won 11 games last season and is the early favorite in the district. Utica has done very well recently. They are well coached. Chieftains have Cameron McConachie, Sarah Fromm, Natalie Shtogrin, and Katelyn Shtogrin coming back for legendary coach Tom McDonald. Utica Ford II had a really great year by winning 16 games 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.
District 30 @ Grosse Pointe North
HARPER WOODS
Grosse Pointe North
Grosse Pointe South
St. Clair Shores Lakeview
Roseville
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grosse Pointe North, 2. St. Clair Shores Lakeview
FAVORITE: Grosse Pointe North
NEXT: St. Clair Shores Lakeview
DARKHORSE: Roseville
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Annabel Ayrault-Grosse Pointe North
EARLY 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. They have home court and proven experience. 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 made the regional semifinals last 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 coming back for Coach Joe Charrette. Roseville should be in the mix with 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 from Division Two into this district after having a really good season last season. They have a lot of experience which helps. The Pioneers have Kendall Kelsey, Mya Duncan, Lauren Peterson, and Clearia Peterson coming back for Coach Paul Allen. This should be a very tough district as mentioned. There is a lot of proven programs in this district.
District 58 @ Hazel Park
FERNDALE
FERNDALE UNIVERSITY
Hazel Park
Warren Lincoln
Warren Fitzgerald
PROJECTED MPR: 1. Ferndale University, 2. Hazel Park
FAVORITE: Ferndale University
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARKHORSE: Ferndale
PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Jada Buchanan-Ferndale
EARLY THOUGHTS: This is not a very strong district. Ferndale University is getting better each day for Coach Destain Hester. The Eagles made the district finals falling to Birmingham Detroit Country Day last season. Ferndale had things very rough last season but they improved each day. The Eagles have Jada Buchanan, Angel Ajonouma, Briunna Young, Tarriyah Early, Jaila Pouncey, and Jayla Martin coming back for Coach Al Katolla. Hazel Park has home court in the district and could be a team to watch in this district. 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 better for Coach Jalen Ford. Warren Fitzgerald really struggled winning one game last season. They should be improved this season. The Spartans have Janiya Williams and Mariah Anderson coming back for Coach JuWan Shakespear. I see this being a two team district between the Eagles and the Vikings. Could this be the time Ferndale University makes the next step???
Here is the Girls Basketball Districts from the MHSAA Website
https://www.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Basketball/2023-Districts
by orionontv | Jul 8, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports
Bloomfield Hills has their new Boys Basketball Coach.
The Blackhawks have their new Boys Basketball Coach.
Bloomfield Hills named Brian Canfield as their new head coach. He takes over for Phil Kurajian whom stepped down in April.
Two very accurate sources confirmed the news.
Canfield is the principal at Schroeder Elementary School in Troy. He does have a very strong basketball background. He is well known within the basketball community.
Canfield’s new program has Noah Adamcyzk, DJ Lee, CJ Jackson, Ahmad Taylor, Henry Jackson, and Brandon Newland coming back. Program strength looks to be on solid ground as well.
The Blackhawks have shared the White the last two years. They are in the White with West Bloomfield, Farmington, Troy, Groves, and Lake Orion. Bloomfield Hills hosts their district which has Orchard Lake St. Marys, West Bloomfield, Birmingham Brother Rice, Groves, and Seaholm.
It will be very interesting to see what system Canfield brings to Bloomfield Hills and what will the transition period will be like.
Only time will tell.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.
