Written Friday June 14th at 6:30 PM

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

Adams did just that.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Written Tuesday June 11th at 10:45 AM

This article will be updated often with the most updated information

District 23 @ Farmington Hills Mercy

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

 

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Detroit Renaissance

DARKHORSE: Farmington

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

 

District 25 @ Lakeland

WEST BLOOMFIELD

South Lyon

Lakeland

Walled Lake Western

Walled Lake Northern

Walled Lake Central

 

FAVORITE: Lakeland

NEXT: Walled Lake Northern

DARKHORSE:Walled Lake Central

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

District 26 @ Holly

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

OXFORD

Holly

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Oxford

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

District 27 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

Orchard Lake St. Marys

 

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Orchard Lake St. Marys

DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek

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

 

 

District 28 @ Berkley

BERKLEY

NORTH FARMINGTON

GROVES

SEAHOLM

ROYAL OAK

Birmingham Marian

 

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Berkley

DARKHORSE: Groves

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

District 31 @ Utica Eisenhower

TROY

TROY ATHENS

Utica Eisenhower

Utica Ford II

Utica

 

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Troy

DARKHORSE: Utica

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

 

District 54 @ Detroit Henry Ford

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Detroit Jalen Rose Academy

Detroit Henry Ford

Detroit Lincoln King Academy

Detroit Old Redford

 

FAVORITE: Ferndale University

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Henry Ford

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

District 57 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Eastpointe

Warren Lincoln

St. Clair Shores South Lake

FAVORITE: St. Clair Shores South Lake

NEXT: Harper Woods

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods Chandler Park

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

My podcast-Volleyball districts are the third segment.

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

Written Tuesday June 11th at 1:45 AM

These are the districts, they will be updated with the most updated information.

District 22 @ Livonia Franklin

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. North Farmington, 2. Farmington, 3. Redford Thurston, 4. Livonia Stevenson, 5. Livonia Franklin, 6. Livonia Churchill.

FAVORITE: North Farmington

NEXT: Farmington

DARKHORSE: Redford Thurston

PLAYER ON SPOT: Greg Grays-Farmington

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. North Farmington was in the Division One State Finals last season. The Raiders have Avi Melster, Will MacShara, Rob Smith, and DJ Morgan coming back for Coach Todd Negoshian. Livonia Churchill had a really rough year last season. The Patriots have Andrew Creedon, Emmanuel Williams, Diego Cantu, Levi Florence, Alex Mood, Max Shewesing, Jamari White, and Myles Boone coming back for Coach James McCulloh. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of proven experience in Tyler Hall, Jackson Stoops, Isiah Iacoben, Joe Berry, Jack Woods, Antionio Aiaz, Jonah Waligora, and Iyran Altrack coming back for new Coach Jack Matson. Livonia Franklin has Owen Pittenger, Mendale Broaden, Mark Kiss, Dominic Goines, Kam Webster, Jacob Looish, Thomas Wiwigash, Kameron Dale, and Andrew Mullins coming back for Coach TJ Hurley. Redford Thurston won 14 games last season. The Eagles have Daniel Winston, Nicholas Warren, and Tyler Floyd coming back for Coach Brian Bates. Farmington will look to have a bounce back season after injuries really derailed their season. The Falcons have Darnell Cochrane, Randy Rice, and Greg Grays coming back for Coach Byron Johnson. This district could be a battle of Farmington district final which would be very interesting if it happens.

District 24 @ Groves

GROVES

SEAHOLM

OAK PARK

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Brother Rice

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Brother Rice, 2. Groves, 3. Oak Park, 4. Bloomfield Hills, 5. Seaholm, 6. Southfield Arts and Tech.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

DARKHORSE: Oak Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ace Walters-Birmingham Brother Rice.

INSIGHT: This should be a very competitive district in Beverly Hills. Groves is loaded with proven experience. The Falcons have Jon Simpson, Josh Gibson, and Paul Hubbard, Landon McKinney, and David Jones coming back for Coach Marc West. Oak Park has a ton of experience after a tough loss to Groves last season. The Knights have Jason Harris and Geon Hutchins coming back for Coach Durrand Sheppard. Seaholm has a new system and a younger team. The Maples have Everett Wertz coming back for new coach Spenser Adams. Southfield Arts and Tech will look to have a bounce back season. The Warriors have Cameron Dickerson and Trent Green coming back for Coach Terrance Porter. Bloomfield Hills is an up and coming team. The Blackhawks have D’Ron Mason, Philip Muhammad, Carter Hartfield, and Carter Canfield coming back along with an up and coming player in Brandon Bies for Coach Brian Canfield. Birmingham Brother Rice had a really strong postseason run last season. The Warriors have Ace Walters, David Williams, Elijah Williams, Jacob Lamb, Jeremiah Caffey, John Lilley, Logan Hahama, and Trevor Smith coming back for Coach Ricky Palmer. This district looks like it’s Birmingham Brother Rice’s district to lose but you never know.
District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Lakeland

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. West Bloomfield, 3. Walled Lake Central, 4. Lakeland, 5. Walled Lake Northern.

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Central

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jayden Savoury-Orchard Lake St. Marys

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top at West Bloomfield. The defending Division One State Champs are in this district. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven talent. The Lakers have De’Avion Thomas, Corey Pittman, Brendin Jones, Artis Hicks, Terrance Lowe, Ryan Hood, David Lewis, Jamad Williams, Drew Wilson, and Chris Britton coming back for Coach Arnette Jordan. Walled Lake Central had a very strong year last season. The Vikings have Frank Knolton, Giovanni Charles, Anthony Camacho, Asa Clay, Garrod Alexander, Preston Dado, Zakira Jallow, Peyton Kassab, and Jake Nellett coming back for Coach Chuck Splonky. Walled Lake Northern was down last season and will look to have a bounce back year this season. The Knights have Ryne Socha, Eli Ryan, Stone Seyburn, Jack Cooper, Michael Hatcher, Tim Awad, Andy Avitia, and Gavin Delaney coming back for Coach Ryan Negoshian. Lakeland will look to have a bounce back year. The Eagles have Nskian Usen, Cole Bromley, Walker Lewinski, Hayden Cross, Nathan Bronka, and Chandler Good coming back for Coach Rob Thompson. Orchard Lake St. Marys is the defending Division One State Champs and they are loaded again this season. The Eaglets have Geon Sheets, Sharod Barnes, Trey McKinney, Isiah Hines, Jayden Savoury, and Aiden Hanks coming back for Coach Todd Covert. Overall this should be a very interesting district, the Eaglets are the favorite but can’t count out the Lakers by a long shot.
 

District 26 @ Lapeer

OXFORD

Lapeer

Davison

Grand Blanc

Swartz Creek

Holly

 

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

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Davison

DARKHORSE: Oxford

PLAYER ON SPOT: Luke Stoffan-Oxford

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in Lapeer. Grand Blanc had a deep postseason run where they went to the regional finals and look to be the favorite again. The Bobcats have Donnie Huddleson, Isiah McCree, Larryeon Subblett, Malachi Evans, Matthew Evans, Omar Young, Caseton Sendry, Angelo Diedalis, and Lawerence Walker coming back for Coach Dorence Martin. Davison was upset by Holly in the district semifinals last season. The Cardinals have Greg Lawson, Cortez Porter, and Jackson Bowden coming back for Coach Mike Williams. Lapeer really struggled last season. The Lightning have Will Fisher coming back for new coach Jack Chittle. Chittle comes from North Branch and will look to leave his mark. Holly has had a ton of success for Coach Steve DeHart. Swartz Creek has been up and down. The Dragons have Ian Johnson, Boston Koebke, Carson Wistuba, William Gray, Isiah Spencer, Alex Miller, Braylin Stell, and King Powell coming back for Coach Kevin Root. Oxford looks to have a very strong showing this postseason. The Wildcats have Jake Champagne, Drew Cady, Robert George, Nolan Mauser, Colatrane Hudson, Brennan Elling, Parker Bennion, Cayden Smith, Jonah Lundeberg, and Luke Stoffan coming back for Coach Joe Fedorchik. This should be a very interesting district to say the least, four teams have a shot to win this district.
 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Avondale

DARKHORSE: Waterford Mott

PLAYER ON SPOT: Max Jansenvanvuren-Waterford Mott

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

District 28 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

Utica

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Adams, 2. Rochester, 3. Stoney Creek, 4. Utica Eisenhower, 5. Romeo, 6. Utica.

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Utica Eisenhower

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Tyree Smith-Stoney Creek

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season. Utica won the district and 22 games last season behind a veteran heavy team. The Chieftains have Jonathan Carter, Cass Rissman, Kellen Condon, Eddy Tolme, and Owen Sulik coming back for Coach David Hinkle. Rochester looks to have a bounce back year after a tough loss to Adams in the district semifinals. The Falcons have Max Muhl, Noah Kim, Luke Lower, Anthony Chirco, Kellen Muhl, and Jake Tandy coming back for Coach Nick Evola. Utica Eisenhower had their ups and down last season. The Eagles will have Trey Richardson, Randall Rice, Alex Edgar, John Hardiman, and Maddox Moore coming back for a new coach. Romeo has been a really interesting story especially in the postseason, this is something that they need to correct this season. The Bulldogs have Ben Stojanvski, Salvatore Leone, Austin Habicht, Alex Kelley, and Brody Hare coming back for Coach Marv Cushingberry. Adams is coming off a very tough loss to Utica. The Highlanders are a young team but they have proven experience in Colin Langdon, Clark Langdon, Trenton LaGarge, Luke Marcial, and Cannon Flynn coming back for Coach Isiah Novak. Stoney Creek looks to have the biggest pressure on them this season after winning nine games in two years. The Cougars have Gideon Beers, Chritos Marselis, Koby Rauner, Joseph Zoorob, Spencer Beckman, and Tyree Smith coming back for Coach Jeff Olind. This district looks different on paper but you never know with how this would work.
 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Berkley

DARKHORSE: Troy Athens

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jack Soboka-Troy

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Royal Oak. Royal Oak has been a hard team to figure out in the last two years. The Ravens have CJ Hariston, Nick Hoffman, Yurem Patino, and Ethan Cousins coming back for Coach Aaron Smith. Berkley lost a ton of talent from last season but they somehow seem to rebound really well. The Bears have Avery Johnson, Evan Young, Jacob Friedman, Evan Haenick, Sam Niyo, and Kenny Swain coming back for Coach Joe Sermo. Troy looks to be the favorite in this district for good reason. The Colts have  Warren Mott had a really tough year winning three games last season. The Mauraders have Asraf Ahmed, Kevin Barden, Juan Chaney, Wesley Gilmore, Markel Green, Martino Hollywood, Siere Keith-Bouyer, Michael Kronner, and Micheal Plater coming back for Coach Gary Tilney. Troy Athens has a new coach and a new system this season. The Red Hawks have Nathan Piggott, Liam Dempsey, Nate Appledorn, Brendan Tucker, and Alex Beaubien coming back for new coach Mitchell Vercellino. This district on paper looks like it’s the Colts to lose but anything is possible in this district that is for sure.
 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Hazel Park

Detroit Osborn

Detroit Pershing

Warren Lincoln

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Warren Lincoln, 2. Ferndale, 3. Detroit Pershing, 4. Detroit Osborn, 5. Hazel Park, 6. Ferndale University.

FAVORITE: Warren Lincoln

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Pershing

PLAYER ON SPOT: DaMarion Bozeman-Warren Lincoln.

INSIGHT: This is the district that has produced the last two Division Two State Champions in Ferndale and Warren Lincoln. The Abes have DaMarion Bozeman, Markus Blackwell. Moses Blackwell, Chris Morgan, and Oshay Johnson coming back for Coach Wendell Henry. Ferndale won the Division Two State crown two years ago and will look to have a bounce back season. The Eagles have Eden Vinyard, Toriano Adams, Cameron Fraser, Drakkar Washington, Tyler Ruth, Juilan Cardenas, and Dexter Wilson  for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale University should be much improved this season. The Eagles have evin Williams-Jackson, Amere Harris, Tyler Stokes, DeQuan Small, Taiwan Johnson, Antonio Jones, Dontrelle Milton, Devin Moore, and Kody Pippen coming back for Coach Josh Nicks. Hazel Park went through a coaching transition winning seven games last season. The Vikings have Kylen Belton, Douglas Calhoun, Christopher Hana, Maxwell Jones-El, and Jayden Page coming back for Coach Cecil Goff. Detroit Pershing won 12 games last season but they will have a new coach. Detroit Osborn will look to have a bounce back season winning 10 games last season for Coach Anton Bradford. This district looks like we could see a rematch between Ferndale and Warren Lincoln but anything is possible that is for sure.
District 61 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Center Line

 

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

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Eastpointe

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jyshawn Lucas-Center Line

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. Eastpointe won the district crown last season and has home court this season. The Shamrocks Aaron Bailey and Dalton Davis have coming back for Coach Michael Railey. Harper Woods will have a very young team this season. The Pioneers have Miron Bayor coming back for Coach TaJuan Porter. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 12 games last season for Coach Bobby Thompson. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 11 games for Coach Kurt Wilson. Center Line won 21 games last season. The Panthers have Kameren Broughton, Jyshawn Lucas, Isiah Ashford, Terez Holmes, Caleli Spencer, Brian Kennedy, and Tony Jones coming back for Coach Derrick Walton. Center Line is the favorite but Eastpointe and Harper Woods could have strong says in this district.
 

District 62 @ Pontiac

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Macomb Lutheran North

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Madison Heights Lamphere

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 2. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 3. Pontiac, 4. Macomb Lutheran North, 5. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 6. Madison Heights Lamphere.

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

NEXT: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

DARKHORSE: Pontiac

PLAYER ON SPOT: JJ Claudio-Pontiac

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Pontiac gets to host the district at Sy Green Gym after being in Division One, they are now in Division Two. The Phoenix have JJ Claudio coming back for Coach Andrew Myers. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is coming off a really bad taste after losing in the district last season. The Fighting Irish has Joe DeCasas, Nick Fandino, Mark Galle, Micahel Khouri, Nick Kobylecki, Sam Phillips, Sam Stowe, and Colin Whalen coming back for Coach Whitney Robinson. Birmingham Detroit Country Day should be a tough out for anyone. The Yellow Jackets have Drew Bailey, Isiah Marino, Jaidyn Martin, Anthony Carthwright, Blake Murphy, Christian Cast, Kordell Robinson, Evan Singleton, Jack Soble, Chase Kukes, Alex Elia, Dominic Cassise, and Cade Wilhelmi coming back for Coach Darryl Nobles. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood really struggled last season. The Cranes have Ellis Akpotu, Andy Kim, Aiden Stapels, Finn Duzan, Mashiro Kurosawa, Henry Snee, Charlie Song, Adam Zhang, Vagelis Tzoumakis, and Julius Pitt coming back for Coach Matt Gump. Macomb Lutheran North won eight games last season. The Mustangs have Ben Scheuher, Jake Bullaro, Cameron Head, Jack McMahon, Brody Law, and Andrew Starrs coming back for Coach Jared Bender. Madison Heights Lamphere won 10 games last season. The Rams have Aidan Grzesikowski, Jack Robinson, Aiden Lindsey, Evan Landstrom, Cameron Cross, Jeriemah Ray, and Kaden Johnson coming back for Coach Bobby Robinson. This should be a very interesting district as mentioned, the Irish and the Yellow Jackets are the favorites but you can never ever count out the Phoenix.

This article will be updated very often with the most updated information.

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Livonia Stevenson, 3. Farmington, 4. Livonia Franklin, 5. Redford Thurston.

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

DARKHORSE: No One

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aizlyn Albanese-Farmington Hills Mercy

INSIGHT: This looks to be a very interesting district. Farmington could get some big points being the favorite in the Gold but they do have some questions coming into this district. The Falcons have dimari King, Alexis Gebs, Emma Mohr, Anna Toranchuk, Grace Lamott, Gaia Demeester, Mya Jones, Sydney Nogas, and Kate Martin coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Farmington Hills Mercy had a very young group from last season that won 12 games and was competitive with West Bloomfield for a half before falling 68-39 to the Lakers. The Marlins have Aizlyn Albanese, Kate Samulak, Emily Walker, Caroline Paluk, Emily Cuthbertson,Naimah Kellum, Jessica Heath, Abby Bores, Elle Geerlings, Avery Birkett, and Nora Gerzema coming back for Coach Gary Morris. Livonia Stevenson won 13 games last season. They have a new coach in Alison Hidey who comes over from Groves. The Spartans have Isabella Claramont, Carly Piergentili, Samantha McCloud, Hailey Gordon, Lauren Olson, Kennedy Hinkle, Madison Lowrly, Gabby Yancura, Isabella Sapia, and Ella Stoops for Hidey. Livonia Franklin was really young last season. The Patriots have Tessa White, Kingsley Nordbeck, Sammy Carignan, Sydney Kenyon, Calie Bates, Aubree Ostrokie, Breann Campbell, and Summer Montgomery coming back for Coach Colleen Flaherty. This district looks like this will be the Marlins to lose.
 

District 23 @ Detroit Renaissance

OAK PARK

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Hamtramck

Warren Fitzgerald

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Detroit Mumford, 3. Warren Fitzgerald, 4. Oak Park, 5. Hamtramck.

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Detroit Mumford

DARKHORSE: Warren Fitzgerald

PLAYER ON SPOT: Immani Johnson-Detroit Renaissance

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Detroit. Oak Park has struggled and could struggle in this district. The Knights have Mackenzie Blake, Madison Johnson-Williams, Sienna Walker, and Gabrielle Lee coming back for Coach Tyler Washington.Warren Fitzgerald won 21 games last season and is up in Division One. The Spartans have Lyric Pannel, Meghan Diles, Kaylunn Millander, Asia Bowman, Amani Thomas, Shavon Williams, Casundra Smith, Iyanna Smith, Sabrina Watson, and Taylor McCants coming back for Coach Juwan Shakespear. Detroit Mumford won five games despite having a really tough schedule last season. The Mustangs have Ceniyah Williams and Cherish Jefferson coming back for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance was a Final Four team last season. The Phoenix have Alehia Wade, Aryana Denham, Victorya Gambles, Aarion Vinson, Jaebrian Autry, Marhea Bradshaw, and Imani Johnson coming back for Coach DaShaun Wood. Hamtramck had a rough year winning one game for Coach Courtney Jackson, this district could be worse for the Cosmos this season. Detroit Renaissance looks to be the favorite in this district but Detroit Mumford and Warren Fitzgerald could have strong says.
 

 

District 24 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

NORTH FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Marian

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Seaholm, 3. Southfield Arts and Tech, 4. Groves, 5. Bloomfield Hills, 6. North Farmington.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Seaholm

DARKHORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech

PLAYER ON SPOT: Addy Flynn-Seaholm

INSIGHT: This is a very interesting district in Birmingham. Birmingham Marian had a tough district with West Bloomfield and Farmington Hills Mercy last season. The Mustangs have McKenley Reid, Ella Swanson, Lauren Billingsley, Katelyn Morgan, Danielle Denha, CeCe Murray, Molly McLeod, Charlie Bingham, and Ruby Jansen coming back for a new coach. Seaholm has a ton of proven experience after getting to the district finals last season. The Maples have Addy Flynn, Mary Gumbus, Taylor Hartwig, Emma Weber, Sophie Sullivan, Ella Koosis, Addy Kitzman, Jada Josifovski, and Elia Gifford coming back for Coach Chris Manchester. Groves has a new coach and a new system in place. The Falcons have Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Aniyah White, Rose Strada, Sophie Schwanik, and Micah Smith coming back for new Coach Jessica Duleba. Bloomfield Hills will have a new coach coming into their program after winning their first district last season. The Blackhawks have Brianna Young, Brianna Brooks, and Giselle Haddad coming back. North Farmington was very young last season. The Raiders have Jade Spears, Quyaamah Jihad, Shylah Tarin, and Shalaya Rogers coming back for Coach Michael Allin. Southfield Arts and Tech is a team that likes to run and score in bunches, defense is a concern for the Warriors which could be key for a postseason run. The Warriors have Christian Banks, Samiya Ashford, and Jordyn Ushery coming back for Coach Shaquita Coltrane. Overall this district is very interesting, Birmingham Marian is the slight favorite but keep a close eye on Seaholm and Southfield Arts and Tech, they both could make some noise in this district.
District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

Lakeland

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. West Bloomfield, 3. Walled Lake Northern, 4. Lakeland, 5. Walled Lake Central.

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Northern

PLAYER ON SPOT: Amal Younes-Walled Lake Northern

INSIGHT:  This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. West Bloomfield is the defending Division One State Champs but they lost a ton of talent from that team. The Lakers have Ava Lord, Sheridan Beal, Breanna Gamble-Jones, Breasia Gamble-Jones, Jordyn Ratliff, Jaylee Head, and London Hall coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Walled Lake Northern was up and down last season. The Knights have Amal Younes, Macie Hunter, Brooklyn Zeleny, Adisa Dibra, Skyler Sweet, Eden Van Proeyen, Savannah Scott, Sarah Maktari, and Layne Biggers coming back for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was experienced last season. The Vikings have Demi’a Higginbottom and Lillian Miracle coming back for Coach Ken Nelson. Lakeland has Alena Tiernan, Aubrin Miller, Kalie Rhines, Brynn Taliercio, Jessie Liker, Kennedy Canterbury, Molly Farquhar, Leah Willis, and Peyton Baer coming back for Coach Mike Leitheim. Orchard Lake St. Marys is loaded with proven talent. The Eaglets have Mia Moss, Stella Poota, Layla Stewart, Allie Crighton, Ava Ignoglia, Jessica Asmussen, Hope Richer, Brooke Shockey, Nicole Kolwich, and Reese Holton coming back for Coach Brad Crighton. This could be the makings of a classic district in the making on the black top in West Bloomfield.
District 26 @ Swartz Creek

OXFORD

Davison

Lapeer

Grand Blanc

Holly

Swartz Creek

 

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

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Alison Hufstedler-Oxford

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district between Genesee County, Lapeer County, and Oxford. The Wildcats have Alison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Mia Champagne, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Jaylen Jacobsen, Katelyn Brockway, and Claire Bruski coming back but they don’t have a new coach yet. Swartz Creek won 10 games last season and have home court. The Dragons have Raeleigh Genoveski, Peyton Camper, Missy Bales, Maddie Pier, Aja Collins, Tatlot Gullett, and Brooklyn Short coming back for Coach Brian Van Buren. Holly really struggled last season. The Bronchos have Ella Azbell, Evelin Spiece, and Adlin Moore coming back for Coach Ben Varner. Davison really struggled last season. The Cardinals have Mayae Carradine, Gracie Wright, Lilah Pierson, Sammie Beller, Brooklyn Hughson, Brooke Pizzala, Darby Crystal and Savannah Rice coming back for Coach. Lapeer really struggled winning three games last season. The Lightning have Madison White coming back for their new coach. Grand Blanc went to the Division One State Finals last season. The Bobcats have Parc Liggins, Daya Hartwick, Paige Pittman, Joslyn Lopez, Malaya Brown, and Jordyn Eichelberger coming back for Coach Bob Taylor. The Bobcats stand as the early favorite but the Wildcats have the firepower to match it even though they don’t have a new coach yet.
 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: Neveah Wood-Lake Orion

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district which could be very similar to last season’s classic district final between Clarkston and Lake Orion. Avondale was in a different district and had a rough year due to injuries last season, they have home court this time around. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Morgan McPherson, Amaria Daniel, Khaila Bradley, Giavanni Hollie-Jackson, Sasha McClellan, and Janaye Richardson coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Clarkston is coming off a district crown last season. The Wolves have the majority of their team in Brooklyn Covert, Elliana Robak, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Ellery Hernandez, Kayla Butki, Lauren Fishtaller, Keira Zorski, Lexi Fry, and Jenna Thomas coming back for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Lake Orion has been a team on the rise. They were a very young team last season. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Charlotte Peplowski, Neveah Wood, Grace Hoensheid, Riley House, Lauren LaForge, and Dani Heck coming back for Coach Bob Brydges. Waterford Mott has Payton Smith, Morgan Tassin, Trevino Marissa, Kate Saunders, Natalia Santia, Ahyma Gulley, Juilanna Lemis, and Isabella Badger coming back for Coach Andrew Wellman. Waterford Kettering has JaNella Barber, Summer Blaine, Ellie Droops, Peyton Eakin, Sophie Munro, Kylee Nickerson, and Ella McCall coming back for Coach Rawle Marshall. This district has the makings of last season but the Yellow Jackers are a dangerous three seed.
 

District 28 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

Utica

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Utica Eisenhower, 2. Stoney Creek, 3. Rochester, 4. Romeo, 5. Utica, 6. Adams.

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Stoney Creek

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Devyn Raymond-Utica Eisenhower

INSIGHT: This is almost the same district as last season. Utica comes into this district, they really struggled winning nine games last season. The Chieftains have Katelyn Shtogrin, Kylie Condon, Brianna LeMersie, Brooklyn LeMerise, Violet Smith, and Alexis Petruccioli coming back for Coach Jason Muchortow who took over for legendary coach Tom McDonald who retired two years ago. Stoney Creek made history by getting to the State Quarterfinals last season. The Cougars have Merrick Schlawbach, Izzy Ivezaj, Calista Ivezaj, Abigail Ivezaj, Mikayla Gendich, Addy Allen, Samantha Fulkerson, Taylor Fulkerson, Sophie Budzick, and Jenna Cook coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Romeo had a great year winning 16 games last season. The Bulldogs have Claire Carmody, Maya Mosley, Mya Muschong, Samantha Sackfield, and Anna Wesley coming back for Coach Ron LeBlanc. Romeo fell to Rochester last season in the district semifinals. The Falcons will look to have a bounce back season. They have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back for new coach Andrew Topie. Utica Eisenhower was very young last season. The Eagles have Gabriella Gojcaj, Lily Pantaleo, Paige Hays, Devyn Raymond, and Tesla Bertoia coming back for Coach Cliff Piper. Utica Eisenhower fell to Adams in overtime last season. Adams is hoping to use the postseason from last season as a stepping stone to this season. The Highlanders have Faith Zoldus, Neveah Williams, and Lily Tomahauk coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. This should be a very interesting district to watch that is for sure.
 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Royal Oak

DARKHORSE: Berkley

PLAYER ON SPOT: Maci Zeiter-Troy

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Troy is coming off a strong year last season but the Colts fell to Bloomfield Hills in the district semifinals. Troy has a ton of proven experience in Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Carly Higginbottom, Olivia Sprangler, Sophia Kaltsounis, Kelsey Block, Aly Matuza, Savannah Oddy, Victoria Siegan, Shavani Angadi, Brianna Bert, and Lizzie Dobbs coming back and have Maci Zeiter coming into the program for Coach Laura Guzman. Troy Athens had a rough year last season. The Red Hawks have Yasmeen Dabbish, Alex Link, and Faraida Youseff coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Royal Oak has home court and is coming off a ton of momentum making the regional finals last season. The Ravens have Lucy Freytag, Lydia Dickens, Hannah Saunders, Jordan Hills, Vivian Lawrence, and Maddie Lawrence coming back for  Coach Brian Sopota. Berkley has been up and coming, they made the district finals last season. The Bears have Avery Wintergarden, Maddie Boswall, Katelyn Sills, Nadia Watt, Hailey Kirkwood, Blessing Nweke, Caleigh Tracy, Olivia Church, and Z Diop coming back for Coach Clay Shaver. Warren Mott won nine games last season. The Mauraders have Leajah Ferguson, Niah Sims, Aubrie Vojnov, Alyssa Sikorski, Allison Phillips, Conamora Ndana, Addison Brown, Sophie Simon, and Ella Schmidt coming back for Coach Patrick Schmidt. The Colts are favored in this district but the Ravens could have a strong say but watch for the Bears as well.
 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Center Line

Hazel Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Ferndale, 2. Madison Heights Lamphere, 3. Hazel Park, 4. Ferndale University, 5. Center Line.

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Madison Heights Lamphere

DARKHORSE: Hazel Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aaliyah Frost-Ferndale

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Ferndale University had a rough season with a very young team. The Eagles have LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson coming back for Coach Brianna Rowe. Ferndale has completely revamped their team in two years and is in the Red this season. The Eagles have Aaliyah Frost, Inaya Davis, Demi Bolton, Janiya Larry, Masiah Clark, Kathleen DeVillena, and Keyanna McGarrell coming back along with emerging talents in Zahra Richardson, Janielle Turner, Kassidy Cain, and Zayria McCrary for Coach Keith Paris. Hazel Park has coming back for Coach Anthony Brown. Center Line really struggled last season. They have Janiyah Thomas, Sydney Zosel, Jordyn Alexander, Savannah Rietz, Carlie Farkas, Reyonna Jackson, Jaylah Roper, Kaylee Lindsay, and Audrey Harenski coming back for Coach Josh Banks. Madison Heights Lamphere won 13 games last season. The Rams have Faithlynn Donegan, Taylor Dufrense, Emile Eritano, Mya Giffin, Harmony Hays, Emma Malkowski, Sophia Muskery, Faith Stinson, and Jordan Terbruggen coming back for a new coach. The Eagles are the early favorite but the Rams have the experience to make some noise, this could be Paris time to make some noise.
 

District 61 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Regina

Eastpointe

 

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

FAVORITE: Warren Regina

NEXT: Harper Woods

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods Chandler Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ella Sikorski-Warren Regina

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Harper Woods has been up and down as of late. The Pioneers have Amari Hutchinson and Laniyah West coming back for Coach LaToya Tate. Harper Woods should have some challengers in this district. Eastpointe won 12 games last season for Coach Deon Woods. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 15 games last season for Coach Wilbur Jones. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 10 games for Coach Rakeem Beal last season. Warren Regina has some proven experience in Ella Sikorski and Sara Wilking coming back for Coach Joe Charette. The Pioneers are the defending district champs and look to defend their crown but the Satellites will have a strong say that is for sure.
District 62 @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Waterford Oakdale Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 3. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 4. Pontiac, 5. Waterford Oakdale Prep.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

DARKHORSE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PLAYER ON SPOT: CeCe Arico-Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. Pontiac didn’t have the numbers to be in the postseason. The Phoenix should be much improved for Coach Christopher Wright. Macomb Lutheran North has Claire Leinberger, Kaylee Ward, Alaina Chandler, Leighton Gardner, Lauren Dean, Sydnee Davis, Grace Tobey, Aubrey Thumm, and Morgan Nyboer coming back for Coach Andrea Tiedt. Waterford Oakdale Prep is a new school that just started competition. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood won 16 games last season and is loaded. The Cranes have Haadiya Khan, Maeve Alexander, Madeline Day, Sienna Laverde, Brooke Brown, Dalia Reisner, Trinity Dougherty, Alyssa Luo, Catherine Vaz, and Bella Miceli coming back for Coach Micaela Ellis. Birmingham Detroit Country Day is loaded with proven talent after falling in a heartbreaker to Detroit Edison in the regional final last season. The Yellow Jackets have Naiya Krispin, Cece Arico, Jayla Jackson, Sanyiah Blackwell, Ariyanna Wiggins, and Alina Younes coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has been solid year in and year out. The Fighting Irish have Sarah Okka, Nikki Voto, Kaylyn Sowers, Ellie Whalen, Adriana Lorenz coming back for Coach Tom Kocik. The Yellow Jackets is the favorite to win this district but keep a close eye on the Cranes in this district.

Written Thursday June 6th at 1:12 PM

Groves has their new girls basketball coach.

The Falcons named Jessica Duleba as their new girls basketball coach. Duleba takes over for Alison Hidey who left Groves to be the new girls basketball coach at Livonia Stevenson.

The MHSAA website confirmed the hire.

Duleba was the junior varsity coach at Lakeland and also coached at Oakland Community College for three years. She played her college ball in New York City and played internationally in Spain, Poland, and France according to her JD7 basketball page.

Hidey went 25-44 in her three years at Groves since taking over for Coach AntJuan Simpkins (Detroit Cass Tech) including going 8-14 falling 47-35 to Royal Oak in the district semifinals.

Duleba will be the third coach in five years at Groves.

Groves will be in the White with Rochester, Seaholm, Troy, Royal Oak, and Bloomfield Hills. They will have a proven lineup with Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Anaiyah White, Sophie Schwinik, and Micah White coming back. Program strength will be a concern for Duleba next season.

We’ll see what happens. I’ll have thoughts on the hire on Monday’s podcast.

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

Duleba’s JD7 Basketball page

https://www.jd7basketball.com/aboutme

MHSAA Website

https://www.mhsaa.com/schools/groves/girls/varsity/basketball/2024