Royal Oak has a new Athletic Director.

Written Friday July 11th at 9:30 AM

The Ravens have a new athletic director.

Royal Oak has named Derek Smith as their new athletic and activities director. He takes over for Daniel Russell after he moved to Jenison and took on a role in the west side of the state.

C&G Newspapers, the MHSAA website, and Royal Oak Schools confirmed the move. 

Smith was a teacher since 2002 and athletic director at Utica since 2003. He began his new role on July 1st.

"We are pleased to welcome Derek Smith as the new director of athletics and activities (DAA) for Royal Oak schools. Smith is a Royal Oak native, Derek brings with him a wealth of experience as both an Athletic Director and teacher from Utica Community Schools. His energetic leadership strong belief in power and collaboration will be an asset to our schools" Royal Oak Schools said in a statement.

Smith brings a ton of experience to Royal Oak ranging from different things. He will bring a new ideas and new things to an athletic department that has been going through some changeover in recent years but has had recently seen some success. The girls basketball program has won two straight district crowns under Coach Brian Sopota while the boys basketball program went to the district finals under Coach Aaron Smith last season. The softball program has experienced some success at Royal Oak as well. 

There are some successful programs at Royal Oak. Smith according to the C&G Newspapers story has been responsible for academically tracking more than 400 student athletes every year when he was at Utica and met both theirs and the MHSAA standards.

"All of us at Royal Oak Schools look forward to Mr. Smith bringing his wealth and knowledge to Royal Oak, his hometown. We know that his past experiences and community connections will straighten our athletic and academic activities initiatives as he builds our programs to greatness, we are thrilled to have him on board" said Royal Oak High School principal Don Loomis.

Smith joins Todd Negoshian (Stoney Creek) and the OAA family as new athletic directors into the league this school year.

 

Royal Oak Schools Press Release.

https://www.royaloakschools.org/whats_new/new_leaders_to_r_o_h_s_and_r_o_m_s 

 

Here is the C&G Newspapers story. 

https://www.candgnews.com/news/royal-oak-schools-announces-new-director-of-athletics-activities-8628 

 

Royal Oak MHSAA page

https://www.mhsaa.com/schools/royaloakravens 

Stoney Creek has a new Athletic Director.

Written Wednesday July 9th at 7:45 PM

 A familiar face in the OAA has became the next Athletic Director at Stoney Creek. 

Stoney Creek named Todd Negoshian, the longtime Boys Basketball coach at North Farmington will become the next Athletic Director at Stoney Creek. He started his new position on Tuesday July 1st.

The MHSAA website confirmed that Negoshian was named the new athletic director for the Cougars. 

Negoshian takes over for Brian Anderson who stepped down at the end of the school year. 

Negoshian is no stranger to the OAA as he has been the head Boys Basketball Coach for the Raiders since 2007 taking over the reigns from his father, the legendary Tom Negoshian. He is currently the coach at North Farmington. Prior to North Farmington, he was a Graduate Assistant Coach for Oakland University under legendary Head Coach Greg Kampe. Negoshian has led the Raiders to two MHSAA Division One State Championship appearances (2017, 2024.)

North Farmington is leaving the OAA after the end of the 2025-2026 school year as they are departing for the Lakes Valley Conference.

But Negoshian will be staying in the league in his new role. 

Negoshain's familiarity with the league and creative ideas will bond him well. Stoney Creek athletics for the most part has been solid but has taken a step back a bit in a few sports in recent years. The Cougars have been a state power in competitive cheerleading and tennis. They've had a bounce back in football making the postseason under first year coach Rick Powell last season and are more than capable with their soccer and volleyball programs to have a bounce back year.

Negoshian's impact on Stoney Creek athletics will be immediate. Some interesting questions linger from the basketball front. The Cougars have a new boys basketball in Marko Tomich taking over the program while the girls program is under the guidance of Columbus Williams. The basketball programs will be something to watch under Negoshian as will be the other sports.

It's a new era for the Cougars with Negoshian in charge. 

 

Here is the Stoney Creek page on the MHSAA website

https://www.mhsaa.com/schools/stoneycreek

From Whom I saw in Summer Leagues.

Written Wednesday July 9th at 7:42 PM

This is from what I learned from the summer leagues in boys basketball.

These are the OAA teams I've seen this summer.

Avondale

Clarkston

West Bloomfield

Groves

Farmington

Lake Orion

Stoney Creek

Oxford

Adams

Rochester

Waterford Mott

Pontiac

Bloomfield Hills 

Troy Athens

Troy

Waterford Kettering 

There is a ton of parity in the White and the Blue. The league got the White and the Blue right when it comes to competitiveness.

I was really impressed from what I saw from Pontiac. The Phoenix have a new coach in Dion Harris but that team looks to be in midseason form and could get better. Pontiac should be a player in the Blue with their athleticism. Bloomfield Hills also impressed me especially with the play of their guards. The game against Romeo when they looked smooth on both sides of the court. The Blue looks to be really competitive. Troy Athens looks solid when I saw them. The Red Hawks are more than capable of having a strong season after winning the district crown last season. Troy didn't look strong but they are replacing Mason Parker and his production. They could struggle a bit this winter but it's still the Colts. 

The White looks to be extremely competitive. I've seen all six teams in this division play this summer. Stoney Creek has looked really impressive under new Coach Marko Tomich and Tomich has this team playing at a high level. Adams was really competitive in their games I seen with them. Rochester looks solid when I saw them. Lake Orion plays team basketball on both sides of the floor which is a great sign for Coach Jose Andrades. Oxford had some struggles against West Bloomfield. They are going through a transition after graduating a strong senior class last season. Waterford Mott has talent but depth could be a warning sign for Coach Jeff Jayson as they reenter the OAA.

Clarkston had some battles this summer but the question lingers is will the Wolves be on top of the food chain for Coach Tim Waslik. The Wolves are coming off three losses to Avondale including once in the postseason. The Yellow Jackets got stronger despite questions in the paint for Coach Jaret Thomas. Groves looked really competitive despite losing a lot of talent. I think the Falcons will be fine heading into the winter. Farmington looked solid when I saw them, the Falcons athleticism will be prevalent in games this season.

Waterford Kettering looks much improved when I saw them. Coach Rex Walters has this team heading in the right direction. The Captains look to be the early favorite in the Gold this season. 

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 takes over for Terrance Porter who stepped down in April. 

The D-Zone's Stu Carlin 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 

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. Ferndale University, 3. Madison Heights Lamphere, 4. Hazel Park, 5. Center Line, 6. Ferndale.

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

X FACTOR- Iyana Davis- Ferndale

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Madison Heights Lamphere

MOST DANGEROUS: Ferndale University 

 

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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: St. Clair Shores South Lake

MOST DANGEROUS: 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

MOST DANGEROUS: Warren Regina 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a really interesting district on paper. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep comes into this district after years with Birmingham Detroit Country Day but the Yellow Jackets are in a different district. The Fighting Irish have a new coach in Matthew Matuza after being the Junior Varsity coach last season. He has Pontiac Notre Dame Prep playing really well this summer. Warren Regina has a ton of proven experience and a proven track record for 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 between the Fighting Irish and the Satellites 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Troy

MOST DANGEROUS: Royal Oak 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This should be a really interesting district on paper. Warren Cousino has been a proven powerhouse in the State. The Patriots won their district for Coach Amy Mitchell and blew out 55-21 Royal Oak in the regional semifinals last season. Warren Mott shared the Macomb Area Conference Silver crown with Clawson but the Mauraders went 2-5 in their last seven games including a four game losing streak which led to them falling 65-28 to Royal Oak in the district semifinals for Coach Patrick Schmidt last season. Royal Oak has been a consistent power and also won a district over Berkley for Coach Brian Sopota last season. Troy Athens has shown a ton of promise this summer under Coach Stacie Klump and should be improved. 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Stoney Creek

MOST DANGEROUS: Rochester 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This almost the same district as last season but Adams moved north into Lake Orion. Utica Eisenhower stunned Stoney Creek 49-46 on their home floor albeit there was a ton of controversy surrounding the clock in the district finals last season. The Cougars haven't forgotten that game and would love to return the favor to the Eagles on their home floor. Utica Eisenhower has a lot of proven experience with the Turner Twins (Mackenzie and Janelle) along with Natalya Stojevski coming back for Coach Madison Ristovski. Ritstovski has done a really nice job building program strength and it's her second year with the Eagles. Stoney Creek is a very interesting team that is in a precarious spot. The Cougars have the Ivezaj sisters (Izzy, Calista, and, Abigail) Sam Fulkerson, and Jaylen Freeman 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 the discussion for Coach Andy Toppie. Utica struggled with a season ending injury to their top player. 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 

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Clarkston

MOST DANGEROUS: Avondale 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district on paper. Adams comes north into the district. This will be the first time since 2021 that Adams will not be in a district with their city rivals Rochester and Stoney Creek. The Highlanders have a ton of experience and a new but familiar coach in Coach Justin Howard taking over the program. Adams should be a player in the Blue this season. Lake Orion is a really young team and has two key injuries they have been dealing with but under Coach Bob Brydges his teams usually get better as the season goes on. Clarkston has been solid winning two district crowns over Lake Orion by a combined four points including a 59-56 district final overtime classic last season on their home floor. The Wolves have the talent in Elliana Robak, Bella Flavin and Brookyln Covert coming back but there are some questions of staleness that lingers for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Avondale lost a ton of talent after winning the Blue last season but they have a proven talent in Sasha McClellan coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Waterford will be very young this season but they have a star player in Savannah Sartotius coming back 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- Kaitlyn Brockway-Oxford

X FACTOR- Savannah Rice-Davison

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Davison

MOST DANGEROUS: Oxford 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district at Ian Smith Gym on paper. Oxford has some key pieces in Mia Champagne and Kaitlyn Brockway 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. The Cardinals should be in the mix with their size in the interior and they have an emerging freshman to watch in Nia Wilson. 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: West Bloomfield

MOST DANGEROUS: Lakeland 

 

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 to end West Bloomfield's reign as district champs. The Eaglets have a ton of loaded and proven 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 have home court which helps and is very competitive for Coach Mike Leitheim. Walled Lake Northern is very similar to their rivals on Bougie Lake Road. The Knights are a very competitive and have the Younes sisters in Zeina and Fatima coming back 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Groves

MOST DANGEROUS: Groves 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This could be a really interesting district which has four OAA teams and a proven Catholic League powerhouse. North Farmington was really young last season and should be better for Coach Michael Allin in their final season in the OAA before they leave for the Lakes Valley Conference. This could be Groves best chance to win a district crown for the first time since 2021. The Falcons have two proven guards in Jaycee Roy and Harlem Simpson coming back but interior play is the biggest question for 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 loaded with proven experience and well coached under Coach Shane Lawal. Overall the Mustangs have the edge with experience 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Detroit Renaissance

MOST DANGEROUS: Berkley

 

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 Detroit Renaissance 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 for Coach Tyler Washington. Warren Fitzgerald was up and down for Coach Juwan Shakespher 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

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Farmington Hills Mercy

MOST DANGEROUS: Livonia Stevenson

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district when looking at all the teams. Farmington Hills Mercy looks to be the favorite on paper but don't count out Livonia Stevenson or Farmington. The Spartans have a ton of proven experience coming back and they are well coached under former Groves Coach Alison Hidey. The Marlins beat Livonia Stevenson 60-45 in the district final last season on their home floor. Farmington won the Gold last season. The Falcons have a ton of proven experience coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak in their final season in the OAA heading for the Lakes Valley Conference next season. 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 

 

Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReH-e9GToD8 

Boys Basketball Districts-2026

Written Tuesday June 10th at 12:11 PM

The will be updated very often. I'll have more information on future podcasts.

 

District 62 @ Goodrich

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Goodrich

Brandon

Lake Fenton

Linden

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Goodrich, 2. Pontiac, 3. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 4. Lake Fenton, 5. Linden, 6. Brandon.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: JJ Claudio-Pontiac

X FACTOR: Dominic Melaragni-Goodrich

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

MOST DANGEROUS: Pontiac

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district to keep an eye on. Pontiac has a new coach in Dion Harris taking over the program. The Phoenix fell to arch rival Pontiac Notre Dame Prep in the district finals at Sy Green Gym last season so there is a chip on the shoulder for Pontiac especially with how proud a program they are. The Fighting Irish will always be in the conversation when it comes to the district. There is a proven power in Goodrich who is in this district as well and has a legendary coach in Gary Barnes as well. The Martians won 19 games and their district as well last season. Lake Fenton won 14 games but fell in the first round for Coach Jalen Miller. Linden also won 14 games as well and has been improving each season. Brandon has struggled lately but they could improve as well. Overall Goodrich looks to be the favorite but Pontiac, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Lake Fenton, and Linden have solid chances to win this district.

 

District 60 @ Harper Woods Chandler Park

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

Detroit Edwin Denby Tech

Eastpointe

Detroit East English Village Prep

St. Clair Shores South Lake 

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Edwin Denby Tech, 2. St. Clair Shores South Lake, 3. Eastpointe, 4. Detroit East English Village Prep, 5. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 6. Harper Woods.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Andre Cast-Harper Woods

X FACTOR: Delvon Dixson-Detroit Edwin Denby Tech

PRONE TO GET UPSET: St. Clair Shores South Lake

MOST DANGEROUS: Detroit Edwin Denby Tech 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district on paper. Harper Woods really struggled last season. It's possible they could struggle this season despite having one of the top guards in Andre Cast coming back for Coach TaJuan Porter. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 13 games last season. Harper Woods Chandler Park was up and down winning 10 games last season for Coach Bobby Thompson. Detroit East English Village Prep was around 500 winning nine games last season. Detroit Edwin Denby won 15 games along with a district crown for Coach Kevin Woodmore. Eastpointe won 11 games for Coach Darius Wilson last season. The Tars could be the early favorite to win this district but never ever count the Cavaliers out by a second.

 

District 58 @ Detroit Old Redford

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Detroit Jalen Rose Academy

Detroit Lincoln King Academy

Detroit Old Redford

Hazel Park 

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit Old Redford, 2. Ferndale, 3. Hazel Park, 4. Ferndale University, 5. Detroit Lincoln King Academy, 6. Detroit Jalen Rose Academy.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Drew Wilson-Detroit Old Redford

X FACTOR: Eden Vinyard-Ferndale

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Ferndale

MOST DANGEROUS: Detroit Old Redford 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a loaded district on paper. Ferndale is looking to have a bounce back after two early exits in the postseason after winning the Division Two State Crown under Coach and Athletic Director Juan Rickman. Detroit Old Redford won 19 games last season and has former Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield point guard Drew Wilson coming back for Coach Rashad Reeves. Ferndale University looks to be much improved as well and could be a factor for Coach Josh Nicks. Hazel Park won 13 games last season and has one of the top players in Jayce Goff coming back for Coach Cecil Goff. Detroit Lincoln King was really competitive last season winning 13 games. Detroit Jalen Rose Academy won 10 games last season. Overall this district could be a two team between Detroit Old Redford and Ferndale but anyone in this district is capable of pulling an upset.

 

District 29 @ Troy Athens

TROY ATHENS

TROY

ROYAL OAK

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Warren Mott 

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Troy Athens, 2. Royal Oak, 3. Troy, 4. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 5. Warren Mott.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: CJ Hairston- Royal Oak

X FACTOR: Caiden Hanburry-Troy Athens

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Royal Oak

MOST DANGEROUS: Troy 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district on paper. The only difference is Berkley went south and Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood enters into this district. Shout-out to Margaret (Troy Athens security lady) who is going to have to deal with this. Troy Athens won the district last season which included wins over Troy and Royal Oak. The Red Hawks could be poised to take the next step under second year coach Mitchell Vercellino. Royal Oak moved up to the Blue and could be a factor under Coach Aaron Smith. Troy looks to be the wildcard but knowing legendary Coach Gary Fralick he will have his team ready. Warren Mott really struggled last season. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood really struggled winning four games last season comes from Division Two. Overall the Red Hawks are the early favorite but Royal Oak and Troy are going to be factors as well.

 

District 28 @ Utica Eisenhower

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

Utica

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo 

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Cannon Flynn-Adams

X FACTOR: Logan Pleasant-Rochester

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Adams

MOST DANGEROUS: Stoney Creek 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district but could have some similarities to last season. The Rochester schools will play each other twice in the regular season with all three teams being in the White. Rochester has a ton of proven talent coming back along with a strong sub varsity program but the recent transfer of Max Muhl could change things for Coach Nick Evola however program strength is there. Adams has Cannon Flynn, Daniel Terski, and a loaded and proven team for Coach Isiah Novak. Stoney Creek has a proven experienced team but they have a new coach in Marko Tomich taking over. The Cougars have had a strong summer thus far. Romeo has some questions and has won two district games in the last six years under Coach Marvin Cushinberry. Utica Eisenhower should be improved and has home court for Coach Anthony Muscat. Utica should also be better despite really struggling for Coach David Hinkle last season. Overall it looks like it could be very similar to last season when looking at this district.

 

District 27 @ Lake Orion

LAKE ORION

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

WATERFORD KETTERING

WATERFORD MOTT 

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Nate Giacolone- Lake Orion

X FACTOR: JaKobe Louris-Avondale

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Clarkston

MOST DANGEROUS: Lake Orion 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is the same district as last season except the district heads north to Lake Orion. Waterford Mott won the district last season but they lost a ton of experience and they are coming into the OAA. The Corsairs have some experience in DaKari Stephens coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson. Waterford Kettering who is also coming into the OAA has a new coach in Rex Walters taking over the program but he will have a tough challenge ahead of him however the Captains will be much improved and is the early favorite in the Gold. Clarkston will be in the conversation but they have some questions coming into the season. Lake Orion is guard heavy but the interior will be something to watch for Coach Jose Andrades. Avondale is loaded and with Max Muhl transferring to Auburn Hills it makes them a bit different for Coach Jaret Thomas. Interior play will be the key to watch in this district.

 

District 26 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Northern

Walled Lake Central

Lakeland 

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Anthony Camacho-Walled Lake Central

X FACTOR: Curtis Britton-West Bloomfield 

PRONE TO GET UPSET: West Bloomfield 

MOST DANGEROUS: Walled Lake Central 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a very similar district to last season when Orchard Lake St. Marys ran away with the district crown on the black top in the Swamp. The Eaglets will be a different team but they are still loaded for Coach Todd Covert. West Bloomfield will need to defend if they want any chance to win this district and Coach Arnette Jordan knows that. Walled Lake Central will be really interesting having won 38 games and two Lakes Valley Conference crowns in the last two years for Coach Chuck Spolsky but they lost times in the postseason to West Bloomfield. The Vikings have a dynamic player in Anthony Camacho and Evan Brown coming back. Walled Lake Northern should be much improved under Coach Ryan Negoshian. Lakeland has home court and should be solid for Coach Rob Thompson. Overall I don't see anyone touching the Eaglets.

 

District 25 @ Oxford

OXFORD

Davison

Grand Blanc

Flint Kearsley

Holly

Lapeer 

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Davison, 3. Oxford, 4. Flint Kearsley, 5. Lapeer, 6. Holly.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Brennan Elling-Oxford

X FACTOR: Aiden Tipton-Flint Kearsley

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Davison

MOST DANGEROUS: Flint Kearsley 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is a really interesting district. Flint Kearsley comes into this district which makes things very interesting after winning the Flint Metro League Stripes division crown last season for Coach Joe Cockran. Oxford has home court but lost a ton of proven talent from last season but knowing Coach Joe Fedorchik he'll think of something. Grand Blanc is loaded with proven experience and players with Division One talent for Coach Doreace Martin. Davison looks to be solid as well especially after they struggled early but picked things up at the right time last season for Coach Mike Williams. Lapeer got better as the season rolled along last season for Coach Thomas Chittle. Holly struggled last season but they should be improved for Coach Steve DeHart. Overall this district looks like this is the Bobcats district to lose.

 

District 24 @ TBA

GROVES

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

BERKLEY

Birmingham Brother Rice 

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Greg Grays-Birmingham Brother Rice

X FACTOR: D'Ron Mason-Bloomfield Hills

PRONE TO GET UPSET: Bloomfield Hills

MOST DANGEROUS: Seaholm 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This looks to be a really interesting district but not like last season's district where there was a ton of drama. Birmingham Brother Rice's Greg Grays won the Warriors the district crown with his heroics against Groves on their home floor. Grays is back for Coach Ricky Palmer. Bloomfield Hills has the guards to win this district for Coach Brian Canfield. Seaholm is the most dangerous team in this district. The Maples improved as the season went along. They are expected to take a big jump under Coach Spenser Adams. Groves looks to be the wildcard after losing a ton of experience for Coach Marc West last season. Southfield Arts and Tech is the great unknown for new coach Josh Lyle. Berkley comes into this district with a new coach in James McCulloh and pretty low expectations. Overall until then this district is covered in orange and black.

 

District 23 @ Hamtramck

OAK PARK

Hamtramck

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Warren Fitzgerald 

 

PROJECTED MPR: 1. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, 2. Warren Fitzgerald, 3. Hamtramck, 4. Detroit Renaissance, 5. Detroit Mumford, 6. Oak Park.

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Colin Langdon-Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit.

X FACTOR: Jayden Miller-Detroit Renaissance

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

MOST DANGEROUS: Hamtramck 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This is going to be a absolutely brutal district for Oak Park and Coach Durrand Sheppard. The Knights struggled last season and could again this season. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit is loaded, Detroit Renaissance is loaded, Hamtramck is loaded, and Warren Fitzgerald is a proven powerhouse. The Cubs have a new coach in Chris Jenkins after Pat Donnely was promoted to Athletic Director in the offseason. Detroit Mumford was up and down last season and has a new coach in Jermaine Kilbourne. Kilbourne was formerly at Detroit Western before becoming the new coach of the Mustangs. Overall this is a brutal district, the early favorite has to be the Cubs followed by the Spartans, Cosmos, Phoenix, Mustangs, then the Knights. It's going to be tough as mentioned for Oak Park.

 

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston 

 

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

PLAYER ON THE SPOT: Myles Smith-Farmington

X FACTOR: Jayden Glinz-North Farmington

PRONE TO BE UPSET: Farmington

MOST DANGEROUS: Livonia Stevenson 

 

EARLY THOUGHTS: This district looks really interesting on paper. Farmington won the district last season and is loaded again for Coach Byron Johnson. North Farmington wants to get back to where they belong and they are more than capable of doing that under Coach Todd Negoshian. Redford Thurston won 15 games but the schedule hurt them which was a big factor in their loss to Livonia Stevenson in the first round last season. Livonia Stevenson looks to be the wildcard. The Spartans were up and down last season and they have home court. Livonia Churchill won 10 games last season. Livonia Franklin won eight games last season which has been a improvement to what has happened to the Patriots in the past. Overall this district goes through the city of Farmington, maybe Livonia Stevenson but until then this district is either brown and yellow or dark blue and silver.

 

Boys Basketball Districts

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

 

Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReH-e9GToD8 

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 having the district's best player in Marlie Smith. 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