Gov. and Lt. Gov. Honor Juneteenth National Independence Day

Gov. and Lt. Gov. Honor Juneteenth National Independence Day

by | Jun 19, 2025 | Regional News

Office of the Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 19, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

Gov. Whitmer and Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Honor Juneteenth National Independence Day in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth National Independence Day in Michigan to honor African American history, celebrate the journey and achievements of African Americans while also commemorating the end of slavery in America.

 

“Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom where we recognize our nation’s past, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and recommit ourselves to building a better, brighter future for our all kids,” said Governor Whitmer. “In Michigan, we are proud to honor Juneteenth not only through our words, but with our actions. We come together to uplift Black voices and double down our mission year-round to invest in every region of the state, knock down barriers to opportunity, and ensure everyone, no matter who they are, has a fair shot at a more prosperous future.”

 

“Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “As we honor Juneteenth, let us recommit ourselves to fighting for justice, opportunity, and dignity for every Michigander. This day is about truth, resilience, and progress. It’s about understanding the pain of the past and keeping faith in the promise of the future. Let us keep Standing Tall for equality and justice for all.”

 

June 19th commemorates the day in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas and read General Order #3, stating that all enslaved people were free, and that former masters and enslaved people were absolutely equal in personal and property rights. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 in the United States, reflecting its importance in the nation’s history and the ongoing pursuit of equality. This day has since evolved into a celebration of African American culture and heritage, recognizing the struggles and honoring the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.

 

“Today we remember the day that gave a blessing that rendered Black individuals free — an awaited day that came far too many years delayed,” said state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw), chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus. In this day and age, we’ve witnessed hate continue to rise. With diversity, equity and inclusion blatantly under attack and attempts to erase Black history mounting, we must all do our parts to continue combatting division in our state and country. As we remember the past, we must all find strength to channel nonviolence, kindness and perseverance to free our society from the systemic and systematic oppression that continues to pull down Black and Brown people. Today we remember and we continue to rise above the tribulations that remain.”

 

“We recognize the diligence of our ancestors who made the ultimate sacrifice by building this country through blood, sweat, and tears, and acknowledge our contributions to civilization,” said DeWaun Robinson, Chair of 53rd annual Traditional Flint Juneteenth. “Juneteenth signifies the trials and tribulations of African Americans, but also highlights the strength of our culture to advance this nation. The blood of our people is embedded within the soil of this country. For Black history is American history. Our story is not lost; everything is aligning through spiritual divinity. The time is now to stand on the right side of the struggle. Be bold, live diligently, and stay strong in the fight.”

 

“Juneteenth is not just a celebration—it’s a charge. A charge to dismantle the remnants of slavery still laced in our laws, our schools, and our streets,” said Byron D. “MoSoul” Brooks, BLAC Member.  “Freedom did not ring once—it must keep ringing, until every Black soul is fully seen, fully free, and fully Liberated.”

 

“When people are allowed to show up as their authentic selves they will always authentically perform at the highest level of proficiency and productivity,” said Minister Teferi Brent, BLAC Safety & Justice Chair. “This act not only benefits the employees directly impacted but it also benefits employers.”

 

“Juneteenth marks the true end of slavery in the United States, a painful and pivotal chapter in our nation’s history,” said Harold A. Pope, President  of NAACP Lansing Branch. “As Ida B. Wells said, “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” Celebrating Juneteenth is a way to keep that light of truth shining.”

 

“For me, Juneteenth is a sacred reminder that while freedom was delayed, it was never denied,” said Dr. Shawnrece Butler, Assistant Vice President, Office of Opportunity, Empowerment, & People at Northern Michigan University.  “I carry the hope and courage of those who came before me—and I work each day to make space for those yet to come.”

 

Building the most inclusive government in Michigan history 

  • Appointed more than 500 Black Michiganders to boards, commissions, and full-time positions.
  • Over ¼ of judicial appointees are Black, including the first Black woman on the Michigan Supreme Court.
  • Created the Black Leadership Advisory Council to help tackle racial inequity in Michigan.
  • Vetoed bills that would have disenfranchised and intimidated voters.
  • Enacted a mental health parity law that requires insurers to cover treatments for mental health and substance use disorder at the same level as physical health services to ensure protection and coverage for Michigan families that utilize mental health services.
  • Quintupled the Michigan Working Families Tax Credit to give over 700,000 working families an average tax refund of $3,150.
  • Allocated a total of $117 million in the FY 2025 budget toward the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies program.
  • Signed a budget providing free breakfast and lunch to all of Michigan’s 1.4 million public school students savings parents $850 per year.
  • Rolled back the retirement tax to save 500,000 households an average of $1,000 a year.
  • Established the Racial Disparities Task Force and made “lasting structural change.” Released a report detailing progress made and actions still to be taken to close disparities.
  • Signed the bipartisan CROWN Act, banning hair discrimination.
  • Signed bipartisan bill recognizing May 2 as Negro Leagues Day in Michigan.

 

To view the proclamation, click here.

OC Winners of First Juneteenth Art & Essay Contest

OC Winners of First Juneteenth Art & Essay Contest

by | Jun 18, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Announces Winners of First Juneteenth Art & Essay Contest

Post Date:06/18/2025 2:44 PM

 

LEFT: Sangamitra Sivachandran Narmadha, Ella Bunao, David Coulter, Shiv Lohia, Kairav Joshi and Zuri Earth

LEFT: Sangamitra Sivachandran Narmadha, Ella Bunao, David Coulter, Shiv Lohia, Kairav Joshi and Zuri Earth

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County is proud to announce the winners of its first Juneteenth Art & Essay Contest, recognizing student creativity and reflection on the theme, “Juneteenth: What does Freedom and Equality mean to me?” The contest is part of the county’s annual Juneteenth Celebration, which took place today near the south entrance of the Oakland County Circuit Court building in Pontiac.

The event commemorates the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865, and the ongoing pursuit of equality for all. The event commemorates the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865, and the ongoing pursuit of equality for all. Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter joined community leaders, residents and students for a vibrant festival featuring live music, food trucks, speakers, games and the raising of the Juneteenth flag under the theme “Stronger Together: Celebrating Freedom & Community.”

“This celebration reflects Oakland County’s deep commitment to inclusion, belonging and a future where every resident is valued and welcome,” said Coulter. “The insight and heart in these student essays and artworks are powerful and inspiring.”

Winners were announced at the Juneteenth Celebration today and received a $150 gift card.

2025 Oakland County Juneteenth Art & Essay Contest Winners

Art Category Winners

  • Grades K–3: Derek Flores – Blanche Sims Elementary School in Lake Orion
  • Grades 4–7: Sangamitra Sivachandran Narmadha – Martell Elementary School in Troy
  • Grades 8–12: Zuri Earth – Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Oakland County resident
  • Post-Secondary Vocational: Taylor A. Buens – Jardon Vocational School in Ferndale

Essay Category Winners

  • Grades K–3: Shiv Lohia – Brookfield Academy in Troy
  • Grades 4–7: Kairav Joshi – West Bloomfield Middle School
  • Grades 8–12: Ella Bunao – Athens High School in Troy

Here are some essay highlights:

Ella Bunao (Grades 8–12) of Athens High School explored the significance of Juneteenth and how freedom and equality must be actively pursued. She wrote, “Freedom means being able to live your life without fear, to speak your mind, and to make your own choices. Equality means that everyone, no matter their skin color, background, or beliefs, should be treated with the same respect and given the same opportunities.

Kairav Joshi (Grades 4–7) from West Bloomfield Middle School highlighted the power of young voices in building a more inclusive and respectful society. “Freedom lets me be myself… Equality makes sure no one is left behind,” he wrote.

Shiv Lohia (Grades K–3) of Brookfield Academy compared fairness to cookie-sharing and equality to an egg experiment in school. He wrote, “If there is freedom and equality everywhere, there’ll be no more wars. Everyone will be happy and that’s the kind of world that will be beautiful and peaceful.”

Southfield Arts and Tech has new boys basketball coach

Southfield Arts and Tech has new boys basketball coach

by | Jun 17, 2025 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Southfield Arts and Tech has a new Boys Basketball Coach

Written Monday June 16th at 7:23 PM

Southfield Arts and Tech has their new boys basketball coach.

The Warriors named Josh Lyle as their new boys basketball coach. He replaces Terrance Porter who stepped down in March.

The D-Zone’s Stu Carrolton confirmed the hire.

Lyle played at Eastern Michigan from 2011-2013 after transferring from Kentucky State. He averaged 24.6 points per game, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. He graduated high school from Lahser in 2010 according to his player profile page.

Lyle has been well known in the AAU circuit according to Mitten Recruit on X, he ran the D1 Elite AAU program and done several of the Mitten Recruiting events.

The Warriors really struggled last season falling 62-55 to Oak Park in the first round. They have Cameron Dickerson coming back but program strength is a serious concern for Lyle. Southfield Arts and Tech has a really tough district that has Groves, Seaholm, Berkley, Bloomfield Hills, and Birmingham Brother Rice. The Warriors will be in the Gold with Berkley, Oak Park, Harper Woods, Ferndale University, and Waterford Kettering this winter.

Lyle has a big challenge ahead of him rebuilding a Warriors program that has had success in the past but have been in a rut as of late.

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

Lyle-Eastern Michigan Player Profile

https://emueagles.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/josh-lyle/4268

D-Zone Tweet

https://x.com/TheDZoneBBall/status/1934744808339460363

Mitten Recruit X

https://x.com/MittenRecruit/status/1934790551934517532

AG Signs On to $7.4 Billion Purdue Pharma Settlement 

AG Signs On to $7.4 Billion Purdue Pharma Settlement 

by | Jun 16, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 16, 2925

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Signs On to $7.4 Billion Purdue Pharma Settlement

Michigan will receive up to $154 million

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel today announced that all 55 attorneys general, representing all eligible states and U.S. territories, have agreed to sign on to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family. The Sackler family has also informed the attorneys general of its plan to proceed with the settlement, which would resolve litigation against Purdue and the Sacklers for their role in creating and worsening the opioid crisis across the country. Now that the state sign-on period has concluded, local governments across the country will be asked to join the settlement, contingent on bankruptcy court proceedings.

“After years of settlement negotiations, this agreement finally ensures Purdue is held responsible for its role in fueling the opioid epidemic,” Nessel said. “No amount of money can undo the harm caused, but we are already seeing funds from other settlements make a real difference in prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. I was proud to work alongside my colleagues to secure this resolution and am confident that these dollars will help communities across Michigan combat this crisis.”

Under the Sacklers’ ownership, Purdue made and aggressively marketed opioid products for decades, fueling the largest drug crisis in the nation’s history. The settlement ends the Sacklers’ control of Purdue and their ability to sell opioids in the United States. Communities across the country will directly receive funds over the next 15 years to support addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery. This settlement in principle is the nation’s largest settlement to date with the individuals responsible for the opioid crisis. Michigan’s state and local governments will receive as much as $154 million from this settlement over the next 15 years.

Most of the settlement funds will be distributed in the first three years. The Sacklers will pay $1.5 billion, and Purdue will pay roughly $900 million in the first payment, followed by $500 million after one year, an additional $500 million after two years, and $400 million after three years.

Like prior opioid settlements, the settlement with Purdue and the Sacklers will involve resolution of legal claims by state and local governments. The local government sign-on and voting solicitation process for this settlement moving forward will be contingent on bankruptcy court approval. A hearing is scheduled on that matter in the coming days.

Since taking office in 2019, Attorney General Nessel has focused intently on combatting the opioid epidemic and holding accountable those responsible for creating and fueling the crisis, resulting in over $1.6 billion dollars to Michigan governments through settlements with McKinsey & Co, Distributors (Cardinal Health, McKesson, Inc., and AmerisourceBergen), Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceutical, Allergan Pharmaceutical, CVS, Walmart, and Walgreens. The money is distributed to the state and local units of government for Opioid-use disorder treatment and remediation.

Analysis of provisional data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) indicates a 34% reduction in overdose deaths between 2023 and 2024 – about 1,000 fewer deaths. This continued progress reflects the impact of sustained, strategic investment in prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm-reduction efforts – many of which are made possible through additional funding received as a result of Michigan’s participation in the national opioid settlements.

Attorney General Dana Nessel is joined in securing this settlement in principle by the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Hawai’i, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wyoming, and Wisconsin.
Southfield Arts and Tech has new boys basketball coach

Volleyball Districts-2025

by | Jun 13, 2025 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Volleyball Districts-2025

Written Tuesday June 10th at 12:10 PM

This will be updated very often. I’ll also have a lot more on this on future podcasts.

District 58 @ Macomb Lutheran North

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Macomb Lutheran North

Almont

Armada

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 2. Macomb Lutheran North, 3. Almont, 4. Armada, 5. Pontiac.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is always loaded and well coached. This could be a district the Fighting Irish come out of. Macomb Lutheran North, Almont, and Armada will have says but the schedule Pontiac Notre Dame Prep plays will be too much.

 

District 54 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Detroit Central

Detroit Pershing

Hazel Park

Warren Lincoln

 

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

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This district has the makings to be a three team district between Ferndale, Ferndale University, and Hazel Park. The Vikings have been solid but never count out both Eagles teams. This is a three team district. Overall Ferndale looks to be the early favorite.

 

District 55 @ Detroit Osborn

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Detroit Edwin Denby Tech

Detroit East English Village Prep

Detroit Osborn

Detroit Southeastern

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 2. Harper Woods, 3. Detroit Southeastern, 4. Detroit East English Village Prep, 5. Detroit Osborn, 6. Detroit Edwin Denby Tech.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is not a really strong district when looking at the teams. When in doubt you go with the Eagles although Harper Woods and Detroit Southeastern could have really strong says who wins this district.

 

District 30 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

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

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a really competitive district. Utica Eisenhower won the district last season but there are a ton of proven challengers ready to take the Eagles crown. Adams is well coached and very talented. Stoney Creek is well coached and very talented. Rochester is also well coached and talented. Romeo is also well coached and talented. Avondale has been up and down. Overall this is a pick em district, this should be very competitive volleyball.

 

District 29 @ Oxford

OXFORD

LAKE ORION

CLARKSTON

WATERFORD KETTERING

WATERFORD MOTT

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Clarkston, 2. Lake Orion, 3. Oxford, 4. Waterford Kettering, 5. Waterford Mott.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This district has Wolves and Dragons written all over it. Clarkston has won the district more often and should be the favorite. Lake Orion will be really interesting. Oxford is the darkhorse. This district for now looks to be in blue and gold.

 

District 27 @ Troy Athens

TROY

TROY ATHENS

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Birmingham Marian

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Bloomfield Hills, 3. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 4. Troy Athens, 5. Seaholm, 6. Troy.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really competitive district. Birmingham Marian is a proven powerhouse and has a lot coming back. Bloomfield Hills has started to emerge into a power in the last few years. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood comes from Division Two. Troy Athens has been up and down. Troy has been up and down. Seaholm has taken a ton of lumps lately. Overall this district is the Mustangs to lose.

 

District 26 @ TBA

BERKLEY

GROVES

OAK PARK

ROYAL OAK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Groves, 2. Berkley, 3. Royal Oak, 4. Southfield Arts and Tech, 5. Oak Park.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is an all OAA district when looking at the teams. Groves has been up and coming but so has Berkley. This should be a really competitive district between the two teams. Royal Oak looks to be the wildcard and could upset somebody. Southfield Arts and Tech has been up and down. Oak Park has really struggled. Overall this looks to be a three team district but anyone can beat anyone on any given day.

 

District 24 @ TBA

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Novi

Redford Thurston

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Novi, 3. Livonia Stevenson, 4. Livonia Churchill, 5. Farmington, 6. Redford Thurston.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district. Farmington Hills Mercy has been a proven powerhouse. The MHSAA brought Novi into this district which should provide a challenge to the Marlins. Livonia Stevenson should also bring a challenge as well. Overall it’s a three team district that is for sure.

 

District 21 @ TBA

NORTH FARMINGTON

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Western

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. Walled Lake Central, 3. West Bloomfield, 4. North Farmington, 5. Walled Lake Western.

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a really interesting district. Orchard Lake St. Marys should be favored with the experience they have back. Walled Lake Central should challenge. West Bloomfield looks to be the wildcard along with North Farmington. Overall no one is touching the Eaglets in this district.

 

Volleyball Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Volleyball/2025-Districts

Southfield Arts and Tech has new boys basketball coach

Girls Basketball Districts-2026

by | Jun 13, 2025 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Girls Basketball Districts-2026

Written Tuesday June 10th at 12:11 PM

This will be updated very often. I’ll have more information on future podcasts.

District 60 @ TBA

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Hazel Park

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Madison Heights Lamphere

Center Line

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Madison Heights Lamphere, 3. Ferndale University, 4. Hazel Park, 5. Center Line, 6. Ferndale.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Cira Racco-Birmingham Detroit Country Day

X FACTOR- Iyana Davis- Ferndale

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district on paper. Birmingham Detroit Country Day should be the overwhelming favorite with the talent they have coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Ferndale University could be the sleeper in this district. The Eagles have experience and could make some serious noise this season under Coach Bennie Szczepkowski. Madison Heights Lamphere struggled some last season under Coach Griffin Burton. The Rams have the experience to make some noise. Hazel Park really struggled last season. Center Line really struggled last season. Ferndale has a ton of questions when it comes to a new coach and program strength which is why they are sixth at the moment. Overall no one is touching the Yellow Jackets.

 

District 59 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Lincoln

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Laynah West-Harper Woods

X FACTOR- Jayda Davis-Harper Woods

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district on paper. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 14 games last season for Coach Wilbur Jones. Harper Woods was up and down at 500 last season for Coach LaTonya Tate. Harper Woods Chandler Park had a really rough year winning eight games last season. Warren Lincoln really struggled last season under Coach Jalen Ford. Eastpointe won 11 games but fell to Harper Woods Chandler Park in the postseason last season. The Shamrocks could be a sleeper to watch for Coach Deon Woods. Overall this looks very even on paper when looking at the teams, it’s anyone’s district to take.

 

District 61 @ Warren Regina

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Warren Regina

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 2. Warren Regina, 3. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 4. Macomb Lutheran North, 5. Pontiac.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Kaylyn Sowers-Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

X FACTOR- Emerson Holder-Warren Regina

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a really interesting district. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has a new coach in Matthew Matuza. The Fighting Irish has shown signs of greatness this summer. Warren Regina has experience and a proven track record under Coach Joe Charrette. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood had a down year for Coach Micaela Ellis last season. Macomb Lutheran North was up and down winning eight games under Coach Andrea Avery-Tiedt last season. Pontiac has been improving and won nine games going above 500 last season. The Phoenix will look to take the next step for Coach Corray Lett. Overall this looks like a two team race but you never know with anyone in this district.

 

District 29 @ Warren Mott

TROY

TROY ATHENS

ROYAL OAK

Warren Mott

Warren Cousino

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Warren Cousino, 2. Troy, 3. Royal Oak, 4. Troy Athens, 5. Warren Mott.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Maci Zeiter-Troy

X FACTOR- Katrina Tasich- Troy Athens

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is shaping up to be a really interesting district. Warren Cousino won their district for Coach Amy Mitchell and blew out Royal Oak in the regional semifinals last season. Warren Mott shared the Macomb Area Conference Silver crown with Clawson. The Marauders were seeded but fell to Royal Oak in the district for Coach Patrick Schmidt last season. Royal Oak has been a consistent power and also won a district for Coach Brian Sopota last season. Troy Athens has shown a ton of promise this summer under Coach Stacie Klump. Troy should be much improved and make some serious noise this season for Coach Laura Guzman. Overall this is a really tough district and hard to predict.

 

District 28 @ Utica Eisenhower

ROCHESTER

STONEY CREEK

Utica

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Utica Eisenhower, 2. Stoney Creek, 3. Rochester, 4. Romeo, 5. Utica.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Sam Fulkerson-Stoney Creek

X FACTOR- Taylor Parsons-Rochester

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This almost the same district as last season. Utica Eisenhower came out of nowhere and stunned Stoney Creek on their home floor albeit there was a ton of controversy in that game surrounding the clock. The Cougars haven’t forgotten that game and would love to return the favor to the Eagles on their home floor if they meet most likely in the district finals. Utica Eisenhower is loaded with proven experience led by the Turner Twins (Mackenzie and Janelle) for Coach Madison Ristovski. Stoney Creek has a ton of experience coming back for Coach Columbus Williams but depth is a concern for the Cougars. Romeo should be in the mix with a workman like group for Coach Ron LeBlanc. Rochester will be a different team without Alice Max and Kylie Robinson but they will still be in contention for Coach Andy Toppie. Utica could struggle but they should be better this season for Coach James Muchortow. Overall, the Eagles have to be the favorite because of experience and home court but the Cougars are right there with them with the Falcons as the darkhorse.

 

District 27 @ Lake Orion

LAKE ORION

CLARKSTON

ADAMS

AVONDALE

WATERFORD

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Clarkston, 2. Lake Orion, 3. Adams, 4. Avondale, 5. Waterford.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Faith Zoldus-Adams

X FACTOR- Bella Flavin-Clarkston

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district. Adams joins into the district after being east with their city rivals Rochester, Stoney Creek, along with Utica Eisenhower, Utica, and Romeo last season. The Highlanders have a ton of experience and a new but familiar coach in Coach Justin Howard. Lake Orion is a really young team but under Coach Bob Brydges his teams usually get better as the season goes on. Clarkston has been solid but concerns of staleness lingers for Coach Aaron Goodnough’s team. Avondale lost a ton of talent from last season but they have Sasha McClellan coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Waterford will be very young this season for Coach Andrew Wellman. Overall on paper the Wolves are the favorite because of their guards followed by the Dragons, Highlanders, Yellow Jackets, and Waterford.

 

District 26 @ Oxford

OXFORD

Davison

Grand Blanc

Holly

Lapeer

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Davison, 3. Oxford, 4. Lapeer, 5. Holly.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Mia Champagne-Oxford

X FACTOR- Savannah Rice-Davison

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district at Ian Smith Gym. Oxford has some key pieces coming back for Coach Trevor Marshall. Grand Blanc looks to be the favorite with a ton of proven talent coming back. Davison was up and down last season but they should be in the mix. Holly really struggled last season. Lapeer was up and down as well last season. Overall the Bobcats should be the favorite but keep an eye on the Cardinals and the Wildcats.

 

District 25 @ Lakeland

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Lakeland

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Sheridan Beal-West Bloomfield

X FACTOR- Allie Crighton- Orchard Lake St. Marys

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district. West Bloomfield made it to the Final Four four of the last five years but have lost several key players from their roster. Program strength will be something to watch for the Lakers and Coach Darrin McAllister. Orchard Lake St. Marys looks to be a serious contender and they have a ton of loaded talent led by Allie Crighton coming back for former Stoney Creek girls and Adams boys basketball coach Brad Crighton. Lakeland is a tough team, they are very competitive for Coach Mike Leitheim. Walled Lake Northern is the same as Lakeland, both are very competitive teams for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central really struggled last season but should be better this season for Coach Ken Nelson. Overall this looks like it could be West Bloomfield/Orchard Lake St. Marys part two but Lakeland and Walled Lake Northern could have strong says.

 

District 24 @ Bloomfield Hills

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

GROVES

SEAHOLM

NORTH FARMINGTON

Birmingham Marian

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Birmingham Marian, 2. Groves, 3. Bloomfield Hills, 4. Seaholm, 5. North Farmington.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Ella Swanson-Birmingham Marian

X FACTOR- Harlem Simpson-Groves

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district if things go right. North Farmington was really young last season and should be better for Coach Michael Allin. Groves features two proven guards in Jaycee Roy and Harlem Simpson but interior play is my biggest question for the Falcons and Coach Jessica Duleba. Seaholm lost a ton of proven experience and has some questions for Coach Chris Manchester. Bloomfield Hills has some questions for Coach Renardo Brown. Birmingham Marian won a district crown last season and is well coached under Coach Shane Lawal. Overall the Mustangs have the edge but can’t count the Falcons especially with their guards.

 

District 23 @ TBA

BERKLEY

OAK PARK

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Warren Fitzgerald

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Berkley, 3. Warren Fitzgerald, 4. Detroit Mumford, 5. Southfield Arts and Tech, 6. Oak Park.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Nicqo Shoulders-Berkley

X FACTOR- Jaebrian Autry-Detroit Renaissance

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district when it comes to different styles which is something I talked to Berkley Coach Clay Shaver about during Media Day last season and it was Detroit Renaissance for this reason. Detroit Renaissance is the overwhelming favorite in this district because of proven talent and experience for Coach DaShaun Wood. Berkley could challenge if they play well and handle the speed and pressure the Phoenix could give them. Detroit Mumford has been solid for Coach Kareem Hogan. Southfield Arts and Tech has a strong year last season but there are some questions for Coach and Athletic Director Shaquita Coltrane that she’ll need to address. Oak Park really struggled last season. Warren Fitzgerald was up and down for Coach Tyler Washington last season. Overall this district has to favor the Phoenix but the Bears could have a say if they get to the district finals.

 

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

Farmington Hills Mercy

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Livonia Stevenson, 3. Livonia Franklin, 4. Livonia Churchill, 5. Farmington, 6. Redford Thurston.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT- Elle Geerings-Farmington Hills Mercy

X FACTOR- Sydney Nogas- Farmington

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district when looking at all the teams. Farmington Hills Mercy looks to be the favorite but don’t count out Livonia Stevenson or Farmington. The Spartans are well coached under former Groves Coach Alison Hidey. The Marlins beat Livonia Stevenson in the district final last season. Farmington has a ton of experience coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Livonia Churchill was at 500 last season but have three starters coming back for Coach K’Len Morris. Livonia Franklin really struggled last season but they have all five starters coming back for Coach Collen Flaherty. Redford Thurston won 12 games last season and should be very interesting for Coach Princess Scott this season. This district could come down to the Marlins and the Spartans which could be another classic again.

 

Girls Basketball Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Basketball/2026-Districts