Top Five Boys Basketball Storylines for this week.

Written Sunday January 29th at 10:35 AM

Here are my top five storylines to watch this week.

Royal Oak is in deep trouble.

The Ravens had high expectations after winning the Gold last season. They had almost everyone back from that team and went up to the Blue which was going to be a tough enough challenge for them. Royal Oak started the season at 5-0 with their best win being over Ferndale University at the time but their not as strong non conference schedule in November and December has caught up to them. They are 2-6 since the New Year came. This was the same story as the 2017-2018 Berkley Bears in which something very similar happened to them. What hasn’t helped Coach Aaron Smith’s team has been their inability to defensive rebound which was pretty evident in their loss to Berkley earlier in the season. They are not a big team so fundamentals like boxing out are very important. Another problem has been their mental toughness. There has been times that Royal Oak has had mental lapses that has cost them games. The other problem that has plagued them is that opposing star players have torched them ranging from DJ Morrow (Lake Orion), to Jake Champagne (Oxford), to Tamir Runkenvich (Berkley), to Tre Walker (Stoney Creek), and to Anthony Simmons and Bowen Moore (Holly.) The Ravens rely on their outside shooting and have the proven shooters in Dylan Hoffman, Davis Arbeiter, Nick Hoffman, Rashad Wilson, and Camden Clark. I will talk more about the Ravens problems on the podcast but this team is in deep trouble with the schedule ahead and not to mention their district is brutal with proven teams in Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, Detroit Renaissance, Oak Park, and Berkley in there along with Detroit Mumford, yikes.

 

Is Ferndale for real???

The Eagles have played a really tough schedule against proven teams in the State but they haven’t been able to get above 500 however the MPR looks strong. Caleb DeFoe is back and he will be a big help to go along with Cameron Reed and Chris Williams for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale could be North Farmington’s biggest challenger in the Red. The non conference schedule despite all that they have went through is still very daunting with Portage Northern, Traverse City West, West Bloomfield, and Detroit Edison looming. Rickman really doesn’t care about how tough the schedule is which I severely disagree with but he feels that playing that schedule will get them prepared to get back to the Breslin Center which at times hasn't been the case. If Ferndale can win over North Farmington on Tuesday then that non conference schedule they played proves that they could be a player even without Jason Drake and Trevon Lewis whom have since graduated.

 

The White is a gauntlet.

A lot of people look at the Red and that division is a gauntlet but the White has proven to be a gauntlet this season. All six teams have very impressive non conference wins to go with as well. Troy has the early edge on the division with their road win over Bloomfield Hills. Speaking of the Blackhawks, they, West Bloomfield, and Groves already have league wins and are very good teams as well. Lake Orion is also a very good team despite the 0-2 record. There are no easy games in this division that is for sure.

 

Harper Woods is the front runner in the Gold.

The Woods control their own destiny in the Gold despite being two games over 500. They also have played a really tough non conference as well and has games against Oak Park, Mattawan, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. Harper Woods is also in a tough district which has both Grosse Pointe North and Grosse Pointe South. The Pioneers have gotten proven experience from Julian Young and company for Coach TaJuan Porter. Avondale might be their toughest challenger in the division but right now things are looking upward for the Pioneers.

 

The Blue is wide open again.

The Blue was thought to be Berkley’s for the taking all of sudden changed. The Bears had a very tough home overtime loss to Stoney Creek but they still control their own destiny in the division. Berkley has not won a league crown in a long while and this could be their best chance to get it done. Oxford has been up and down as has Troy Athens whom have had their moments. Seaholm is coming back with a vengeance. The Wildcats, Maples, and Red Hawks are one game behind the Bears while Stoney Creek is two games back and Rochester is two and a half games back. Royal Oak is in a very tough spot in the division being three games back but they can beat anyone with their three point shooting. These next few weeks will tell a lot about the Blue that is for sure.

Top Five Girls Basketball Storylines for the week.

Written Saturday January 28th at 10:30 PM

Here are my top five storylines to watch for heading into the week.

How will Oxford adjust without Nevaeh Wood???

The Wildcats took a blow on Saturday when power forward Nevaeh Wood announced on Twitter that she was out for the season with a torn ACL. The Wood injury could impact Oxford’s chances in the White where they are trying to catch North Farmington but also in the district in which they will have to deal with Grand Blanc. Brady Elling or Lexi Yankee looks to be that possible fifth starter for Coach Rachel Bryer in Wood’s absence. Oxford also has proven players in Miranda Wyniemko, Peyton Richter, Sophia Rabb, and Allison Hufstedler as well. Wyniemko, Hufstedler, and Richter combined for 47 of the Wildcats 61 points in their blowout win over Seaholm. Oxford’s depth will be tested for sure.

 

Bloomfield Hills controls their own destiny in the Blue.

The Blackhawks are in control of the Blue at the moment with their 60-45 win over Farmington. Bloomfield Hills still has to go to Farmington late in the season which could decide the division. They could win it outright or share of the division but that's all if the Blackhawks keeps winning. The non conference schedule was beefed up a little bit with Stoney Creek and even though they lost that game but it should help them with the MPR and also the long term. Bloomfield Hills has to go to Birmingham Marian in a few weeks in which could be a district preview. Coach Kristen Massey’s team has taken a ton of lumps in the White last season but with a revamped team led by Ruby Smith and Ashley Forner, they could lead the Blackhawks to their first ever division crown and they have a shot at winning their first ever district crown in school history if things go right.

 

Will North Farmington ever lose???

The Raiders are running rough shot on the White with their 14-0 record. North Farmington’s big wins were over Oxford and Stoney Creek. Sela Lefler and Penelope Creary have been playing very well for Coach Jeff Simpson and they have gotten third and fourth scoring whether it’s Asiyah Jihad, Eliza Muller, or Hannah Hart. If North Farmington were to go 22-0 then it would set up a likely district finals clash with Farmington Hills Mercy pending if both teams get there but for the Raiders they are rolling and have a ton of confidence.

 

Can Lake Orion overcome Ian Smith Gym???

The Dragons have managed to overcome a lot of adversity this season and also last season with the district crown but one problem that Coach Bob Brydges’s team faces has been Ian Smith Gym which they visit on Tuesday. It has been a long while since Lake Orion has went into Ian Smith Gym and won over arch rival Oxford and last season the Dragons had their worst shooting performance in that gym. Lake Orion did beat the Wildcats earlier in the season by double digits. Could it change this time around???

 

Berkley might be back.

The Bears have become a classic “We’re Back a Dinosaur Story” type of team. They really struggled to meet expectations early but they have rebounded in a big way by winning six of their last seven games with their only loss coming to a very good Rochester program. You have to credit players like Sammi Withrow, Ava Beard, Hailey Kirkwood, Mya Jones, Jillian Gomes, and Malve Nolan and also Coach Cody Feltner and his staff for getting this program back on track. Berkley has Oxford and North Farmington in the next two games. If the Bears can win one or both of them then the district talk could be very real again.

Girls Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 28th 12:50 AM

Here is the Top 23 for Girls Basketball.

1. West Bloomfield (13-2): Lakers are clearly the best team in the State.

2. Rochester (11-3): Feel like the Falcons are playing with house money right now.

3. Lake Orion (12-3): Charlotte Peplowski has really stood out.

4. North Farmington (14-0): Raiders rolling with confidence right now.

5. Oxford (12-2): Myranda Wynemkio has stepped up since the season ending ACL injury to Nevaeh Wood.

6. Clarkston (9-7): Wolves have been up and down lately.

7. Stoney Creek (10-4): Cougars really miss Mia Carson.

8. Berkley (7-6): Bears have their two toughest games of the season coming up.

9. Bloomfield Hills (12-2): Glad the Blackhawks were tested.

10. Harper Woods (7-5): When the Pioneers score 50 they are good, they are 0-3 when they do not.

11. Southfield Arts and Tech (4-10): Warriors have been playing much better.

12. Royal Oak (8-6): Ravens are 2-5 in January, not good.

13. Farmington (7-7): Falcons are in some trouble in the Blue.

14. Oak Park (6-5): Knights are 5-1 in their last six games.

15. Ferndale (4-3): Eagles allowed 11 total points this week.

16. Groves (4-10): Falcons have really fallen on hard times.

17. Seaholm (4-10): Maples have really fallen on hard times.

18. Troy Athens (7-7): Red Hawks playing around 500 lately.

19. Troy (3-12): Colts have really fallen on hard times.

20. Adams (2-13): Highlanders have really fallen on hard times.

21. Avondale (4-10): Yellow Jackets are a weird team right now.

22. Ferndale University (1-9): Eagles are struggling right now.

23. Pontiac (0-14): Phoenix back to scoring single digits, not good.

Boys Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 28th at 12:40 AM

Here is the Top 23 for Boys Basketball.

1. North Farmington (11-1): Tyler Spratt saved the Raiders against Clarkston.

2. Ferndale (5-6): It won’t be too much longer that the Eagles will be above 500.

3. Oak Park (8-2): Geon Hutchins was big against Adams and also Westfield Prep.

4. Clarkston (10-4): Welcome back Jon Kaul.

5. Troy (11-2): Mason Parker has really been playing well for the Colts.

6. Adams (8-4): Big one for the Highlanders loom when they head to Clarkston this week.

7. Bloomfield Hills (9-3): Tough loss to Troy really puts the Blackhawks behind the eight ball.

8. Groves (9-4): Elijah Yelder has been that third scorer the Falcons were looking for.

9. Harper Woods (7-5): Pioneers are playing good basketball despite record.

10. West Bloomfield (9-3): Lakers have been a hard team to figure out.

11. Lake Orion (6-5): Dragons need secondary scoring in the worst way.

12. Berkley (9-4): Bears still the team to beat in the Blue.

13. Seaholm (6-7): Maples might be the hottest team right now.

14. Troy Athens (6-6): Red Hawks have won three straight which is a good sign.

15. Oxford (7-5): Wildcats are 1-2 in their last three games.

16. Farmington (4-7): Falcons have been a hard team to figure out.

17. Stoney Creek (2-10): Big win over Berkley might have saved the Cougars season.

18. Avondale (6-8): Yellow Jackets could be Harper Woods biggest challenger in the Gold.

19. Royal Oak (7-6): Ravens are 2-6 since their 5-0 start.

20. Ferndale University (8-6): Eagles have been a Jekyll and Hyde lately.

21. Rochester (4-8): Falcons are 1-5 in their last six games.

22. Southfield Arts and Tech (4-9): Warriors are a classic Jekyll and Hyde.

23. Pontiac (3-10): Phoenix are 1-5 in their last six games.

Bell Steps Down at Avondale.

Written Monday January 23rd at 7:10 PM

The Yellow Jackets will have a new football coach this fall.

Avondale Coach Corey Bell has stepped down after four years coaching the Yellow Jackets. It was a move that shocked many after Avondale was expected to be one of the favorites this season in the Gold.

It is unknown why Bell stepped down from coaching.

"Over the last four years it has been an absolute blessing to lead you on the field on Friday nights. There have been very few things that have made me prideful, passionate, and enthusiastic as being your head coach. The experience that we have had and some of the greatest memories I'll ever hold, Midnight Madness, Manly Mondays, team field trips, practice, and game days. After a significant amount of time and reflection I have decided to step away from the program and resign as your head coach. Avondale will always hold a special place in my heart and I will have a tremendous amount of love for the Yellow Jackets" Bell said on Twitter.

He thanked the players, parents, and coaches whom had helped build the program.

"I first want to thank all of the administrators that believed in me and gave me the opportunity to lead this program as a young head coach. Thank you to all of the AHS staff, parents, and community members that bought into our mission and helped grow this program. Secondly, I want to thank my staff, I could not think of a greater group of individuals who gave everything they had to grow our culture and coach our players. You have all made a tremendous impact on our players lives and played a critical role in every success that we had. Lastly but most importantly, I want to thank my players, I love you all more than you know, your dedication and commitment to this program will always be appreciated. The memories on the field with you will be something that I cherish forever. Leaving is never easy but I hope that you can continue to push yourselves to be the best that you can be. Thank you for everything. Thank you #OneAvondale and forever Go Jackets" Bell concluded on Twitter.

Bell was 17-19 with the Yellow Jackets in his four years but had three postseason appearances.

Bell is the nephew of Lake Orion Athletic Director and Football Coach Chris Bell.

Whomever the new coach will be will have big shoes to fill. Avondale is expected to be one of the favorites in the Gold this season will have Tyler Herzog coming back at quarterback along with wide receivers Cooper Voeffary and Justin Sykes. They also have proven linemen in Dhruv Thakur, Charlie Killian, and Cameron Washington. The defense is solid as well with the three mentioned linemen along with linebackers Myles Moore and Matthew Lloyd along with Alfenso Merritt in the defensive secondary.

Avondale is a very good job for a new coach. It will be very interesting to see where the Yellow Jackets go but they will have big shoes to fill. Bell did a great job in building this program for the now and into the future.

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

Here is the Tweet confirming this.

https://twitter.com/CoachCoreyBell/status/1617666488936321025

Boys Basketball Thoughts.

Written Saturday January 21st at 10:35 AM

Here are my thoughts on each team in boys basketball thus far.

Pontiac: The Phoenix have not been playing well and that is a concern going forward for Coach Dameon O’Neil. Pontiac has been scoring more since the West Bloomfield game and that could be a start. They are 1-4 in January which is not good. The Phoenix need to address some things especially defensively if they want to turn things around.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have seven wins but they have not been consistent which should be a concern for Coach Josh Nicks. They are 2-3 in January but have played some really good teams to their defense. Ferndale University is fine but they need to be more consistent especially in the Gold.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have really picked things back up after a rough early January. They have put together two good wins to start the late half of January. Avondale has not been consistent which it’s a concern for interim coach Aaron Fox. They have a very tough week looming with Adams and Rochester. If the Yellow Jackets play like what they did against Troy against the two Rochester schools then anything is possible.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers look like they are the best team in the Gold despite being two games over 500. Harper Woods has been playing consistent basketball despite the loss to River Rouge and the very tough non conference schedule. They have wins over West Bloomfield and Pontiac which says a lot. Coach TaJuan Porter has this program heading in the right direction.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors had started to figure some things out. They really struggled against Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit giving up 91 points. Southfield Arts and Tech has played a tough schedule to their defense but they do have some concerns going forward. Coach Terrance Porter still has Lincoln Park, Clarkston, and River Rouge for their non conference. It’s going to be very tough for the Warriors going forward.

Royal Oak: January has been a really tough month for the Ravens. They are 2-4 on the month and they still have a tough schedule ahead of them. Dylan Hoffman scored his 1,000 career point and was honored in their loss to Berkley. Coach Aaron Smith needs to find that magic from November and December if they want to turn things around.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have been a hot and cold team. Troy Athens has had nine days to prepare for their next game against Rochester. Coach Dave Scott needs to find some sort of consistency with his program. They are struggling record wise right now.

Seaholm: The Maples have really started to turn things around. Seaholm has some big wins over Stoney Creek and Oxford which is a good sign for Coach Mike DeGeeter. They are starting to get healthy and on the same page which is a good sign for the Maples.

Oxford: The Wildcats have not been the same team since the Lake Orion game. Oxford had a very tough loss to Seaholm as well. Jake Champane has had some bright moments but when teams focus on him they seem to struggle. They need Lucas Bottete, Joe Cady, Jay Cady, or Dominic Cassise to step up if Coach Steve Laidlaw wants to turn this around.

Berkley: The Bears are the best team in the Blue and their play has showed why but there is a danger and they have experienced this before. Berkley has relied on Tamir Runkenvich and Jacob Sheriff and they have proven they can win on the road well. Coach Joe Sermo has also gotten some third and fourth scoring as well. The Bears are in a good place right now and there is room for improvement as well.

Rochester: The Falcons have really missed Khammani Potts which is a reason why they are 1-3 in their last four games. Eli Kalaj and Grant Calcagno have been performing at high levels each night for Coach Nick Evola. The Falcons need to find that third scorer with Potts out if they want to turn things around.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars are much better than their record indicates but they have really struggled lately. Stoney Creek really misses Peyton Rummler as he is still out with a shoulder injury but he could be back in February. Jake Fulkerson, Leo Kent, and Tre Walker are doing everything they can right now. Coach Jeff Olind has his work cut out in trying to turn the Cougars around.

Groves: The Falcons have clearly been battle tested. Groves lost two tough games to Adams and West Bloomfield. Josh Simpson and Josh Gibson have been playing really good basketball but so has Elijah Yelder, Max Cramer, and Paige Williams. Coach Marc West has done a solid job with this program. The record is deceiving but the Falcons are clearly a player for sure.

Farmington: The Falcons hung tough with Troy in a tough loss. Farmington is 1-3 in their last four games now all be it the three losses were to very good teams in Berkley, Oak Park, and Troy. They have a makeup with North Farmington looming along with West Bloomfield. That could be very tough for Coach Derrick McDowell and his team this week.

Lake Orion: The Dragons are clearly a different team with DJ Morrow in the lineup. Lake Orion had a tough one point loss to Bloomfield Hills. Missed layups and free throws doomed them in that game. Blake Liddell will be key going down the stretch along with Nate Havrilla, Kevin Tobe, and Kayden DeGriffenreid. Coach Jose Andreadas’s team has a tough week with Warren DeLaSalle and Groves looming. The Dragons will be fine.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers have been playing some consistent basketball. Cameron Britton is a name to watch for Coach Arnette Jordan. Britton was very instrumental in their win over Groves. Mitchell Seay has had some moments as well. West Bloomfield will be fine going forward. They have a tough matchup with Detroit University Prep looming this week.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are a different team without Noah Adamcyzk. Adamcyzk missed half of the Lake Orion game with a groin injury but gutted it out late in that game. Drew Wilson has played well and Brandon Newland has had moments as well. Coach Brian Canfield has a strong team but there are some warning signs particularly in the postseason that Bloomfield Hills needs to be aware of.

Troy: The Colts have been rolling as of late especially the play of Mason Parker. Troy has not lost in January but that will be tested when they play Bloomfield Hills this week. Darius Whiteside, Carter Cusmano, Chase Kupier, Jon Whiteside, and Zach Penoza have been playing really good basketball for Coach Gary Fralick. It should be very interesting to see what happens with the Colts.

Adams: The Highlanders got Brady Prieskorn back from injury which is a huge deal for Coach Jaret Thomas. William Gee and Peter Karakasis are going to be special players for Adams. They are pure three point shooters and can create their own offense. The Highlanders have tough non conference games with Stoney Creek, Oxford, Seaholm, Avondale, and New Haven looming and that’s still not the Red schedule. Thomas has his team in a good spot right now despite their loss to Ferndale.

Clarkston: The Wolves have not been playing consistent basketball but have found ways to win games. Other than the blowout loss to Ferndale, Clarkston hasn’t been the same Clarkston of the past. They still don’t have Jon Kaul as he has been dealing with a hand injury. He could be back in February. Desman Stephens, Brayden Wiley, Cavanugh Diton, and Brody Kosin have been doing a lot of the heavy lifting for Coach Tim Waslik. Once Kaul comes back, the Wolves should be ready to roll.

Oak Park: The Knights had been rolling with confidence but they had a very tough road loss to North Farmington which snapped their three game winning streak. Oak Park is still a very young team with a ton of sophomores. Coach Durrand Sheppard’s team will be fine. They have Adams looming this week.

Ferndale: The Eagles might be coming back to life a little bit. They got Caleb Defoe back which is a big deal for Coach Juan Rickman and they are already 2-0 in the Red with wins over Adams and Clarkston. Ferndale’s schedule is very tough as mentioned and Rickman said that they want to get back to Breslin which they have a shot to do that. The Eagles might be back and that’s bad news for the Red.

North Farmington: The Raiders have been rolling as of late. They have turned things around since their loss to Warren Lincoln with wins over Grand Blanc and Benton Harbor. Ryan Hurst, Landon Williams, Tyler Spratt, and Prince Jackson have been playing well for Coach Todd Negoshian. North Farmington is a well-oiled machine right now.

Girls Basketball Thoughts.

Written Saturday January 21st at 9:28 AM

Here are my thoughts on each girls basketball team right now.

Oak Park: The Knights have been playing some really good basketball. Oak Park has won three straight and have been averaging over 40 points per game in each of those wins. Coach Chantelle Corson has to be really pleased with this three game stretch. Maybe the Knights have seemed to have turned the corner and if they have then it’s a great sign going forward.

Ferndale: The Eagles have had moments of greatness and other games not so much. Ferndale has the talent and has won some games. Ferndale needs to play some more non conference games. I’m really hoping that Coach Keith Paris can look for some more teams to play for his girls. They do deserve to play more games this season.

Pontiac: The Phoenix are really struggling but they have been improving despite the record. It has clearly been a struggle for Pontiac and Coach Corray Lett whom is in his first season with the program. The wins should come in time. The Phoenix clearly have a ton of work to do to get their program back on track.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have clearly struggled. It has been very tough for Coach Brianna Rowe lately. Ferndale University needs to keep growing as a program but right now this is a team that is taking a ton of lumps for sure.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have had a rough January. They are 0-4 this month and counting the loss to Warren Fitzgerald then it’s a five game losing streak. The offense has clearly disappeared which is evident in points per game and the points against have went up. They have averaged under 30 points per game while allowing over 50 points per game in this losing streak. If Coach Roy Christmon wants to turn things around they have to find ways to score and defend. Avondale is clearly in trouble right now.

Farmington: The Falcons have been a Jekyll and Hyde team. They look very good against the Blue but really bad against the non conference. This has to change if Coach Lauren Guzman’s team wants to make some noise in the postseason. Farmington is the second best team in the Blue right now but Oak Park has made some strides but they need to win games against the non conference because if they don’t then they could be an early exit in the postseason.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks have been rolling since their 19 point fourth quarter against Seaholm in November but they really haven't been tested since that game which is a concern for Coach Kristen Massey. The blowouts are good and does gain some confidence but they need a true test on the schedule. Bloomfield Hills added a big test with Stoney Creek after both teams needed to find a game after their respective opponents bailed on them. They also have to play Birmingham Marian in February but the Mustangs have been struggling. The Blackhawks needs to be tested before the postseason. It will certainly help the MPR if that happens.

Adams: The Highlanders have taken a ton of lumps lately. They have not won a game into the New Year but they have been competitive. Adams has been competitive in three of the five games. If Coach Joe Malburg can slow things down with his young team then the scoring could go up and the points against can go down in a big way. The Highlanders so far are on the right track but they have to slow the game down and not get sped up.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have been a very odd team. Troy Athens is 1-3 in their last four games which is a concern. In their last three losses the defense has been the problem. They have allowed 44 points per game. In their win against Royal Oak they allowed 36 points. If Coach Stacie Klumpp wants to turn things around it has to be on the defensive end.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers have been a very interesting team to figure out. In their wins they have averaged over 45 points but the losses especially against Oxford and Berkley they have averaged 33.5 points per game. Harper Woods has some issues against teams that guard them and they still have North Farmington looming. If I’m Coach Anthony Brown you have to find way to score against proven teams.

Seaholm: The Maples have had their moments of greatness. Addy Flynn has been Seaholm’s most consistent player. They really needed that two point win against Adams in a low scoring defensive slugfest. Coach Chris Manchester has a real tough three game stretch coming up. The record doesn’t indicate it but this is a team that is making a ton of progress.

Royal Oak: The Ravens have not had a very good January. They are 2-3 in this stretch and have lost two of the last three games. The offense has really struggled since the New Year and that is a big concern going forward. If Coach Brian Sopota wants to turn this thing around they have to put up more than 43 points to win games.

Berkley: The Bears are back there are no questions about that. Berkley is 4-1 in their last five games with their only loss to a very good Rochester team and they held them to 32 points which is impressive. The defense has been very good for Coach Cody Feltner and the offense has gotten back on track. They are playing like they are on a mission right now. This is a classic “We’re Back A Dinosaur Story” type season right now.

North Farmington: The Raiders are in a very good spot right now in the White but their goals need to increase. They have a good chance to win their district. Sela Lefler and Penelope Creary have been the key for North Farmington. Coach Jeff Simpson seems to be pushing the right buttons right now. As mentioned the Raiders are in a good spot.

Oxford: The Wildcats are in a really tough spot right now losing to North Farmington at Ian Smith Gym. Neveah Wood getting hurt also did not help things. Oxford if they want to keep their White hopes alive needs to go into North Farmington and win and get some help. Coach Rachel Bryer needs to get this team back on the right path and she will.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors defense is still a big problem. They have allowed over 50 points in 11 of their last 12 games. That’s not winning basketball at all. Until Coach Shiquita Coltrane fixes her defense then Southfield Arts and Tech could really struggle going forward.

Troy: The Colts have had a ton of growing pains but there are signs that they are getting better. They put up 50 points against Southfield Arts and Tech which is the most they put up since the Waterford Kettering game. Troy is making some strides which is a good sign for Coach Julius Porter.

Groves: The Falcons have some serious concerns after very losses to Lake Orion and Riverview. They need to change some things a little bit if you’re Coach Allison Hidey. Kaitlyn Sanders is doing everything she can and so has Cira Racco. They really need a third scorer to step up and they have to get back what got them there which was slow the game down and control tempo. There is still time to turn things around for Groves.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars will be tested with the injury to Mia Carson. Sarah LaPrarie has played more of a bigger role. Stoney Creek has Lily Solek and Merrick Schalbach that could also fill the void with Carson out. Coach Kellen James has a tough schedule coming up. The Cougars are fine.

Clarkston: The Wolves have been around 500 and have been playing good basketball. Elliana Robak has been a difference maker but Emily Valencia has started to play well. They had a big win against Stoney Creek. Three of their next four games are on the road starting this week.

Rochester: The Falcons have been battle tested. They hung tough with West Bloomfield despite falling in that game but they had their hands full with Berkley. Rochester is a very interesting team especially with Alice Max and Kiley Robinson. It will be very interesting to see where they are at for Coach Bill Thurston to see if they can get back on track a little bit.

Lake Orion: The Dragons had a really interesting week. They hung tough with Detroit Renaissance but a 26-7 third quarter run was the difference in that game. Lake Orion took on a very good Flushing team and held them to 18 points and then beat Groves pretty convincingly. Everyone has been involved as of late and that’s a great sign going forward for Coach Bob Brydges and his program. They have a tough stretch coming up with a ton of road games at the end of the month.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers have been playing really good basketball. They were very impressive over Detroit Cass Tech and Rochester last week. The Davis and Hendrix sisters have been the catalysts along with a very good half court press. West Bloomfield looks like they are getting things ready for the postseason.

Boys Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 21st at 12:10 AM

Here is the top 23 for boys basketball.

1. North Farmington (9-1): Raiders rolling with a ton of confidence.

2. Oak Park (6-2): Knights had a tough loss to North Farmington. They will be fine.

3. Ferndale (4-6): Eagles schedule. Is it taking a tole??? 

4. Clarkston (10-3): Wolves have been very shaky despite the record.

5. Troy (9-2): Colts bounced back in a big way after a tough loss to Clarkston.

6. Adams (6-3): William Gee is legit for sure.

7. Bloomfield Hills (8-2): Blackhawks are more than Noah Adamcyzk.

8. Lake Orion (6-3): Dragons will be fine after a really tough loss to Bloomfield Hills.

9. Berkley (9-3):  Bears have been on a roll lately.

10. West Bloomfield (7-2): Lakers picked up a much needed win over Groves.

11. Groves (7-4): Josh Simpson and Josh Gibson have really carried the Falcons.

12. Oxford (6-4): Wildcats have struggled a bit since the Lake Orion game.

13. Harper Woods (6-4): Pioneers will be fine, no need to panic.

14. Royal Oak (7-4): Ravens haven’t been the same team since the Lake Orion game.

15. Rochester (4-6): Falcons are 1-3 in the last four games.

16. Seaholm (5-6): Maples seem to be turning things around at the right time.

17. Troy Athens (4-6): Red Hawks are 1-3 in their last four games.

18. Avondale (5-7): Yellow Jackets starting to turn things around.

19. Ferndale University (7-5): Eagles have been hot and cold recently.

20. Farmington (3-6): Falcons have some solid pieces that could be made for the future.

21. Southfield Arts and Tech (3-8): Warriors have been hot and cold recently.

22. Stoney Creek (1-10): Cougars have been struggling lately.

23. Pontiac (3-9): Phoenix have been hot and cold lately.

Girls Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 21st at 12:05 AM

Here is the girls basketball top 23.

1. West Bloomfield (11-2): Lakers have been rolling lately.

2. Rochester (9-3): Falcons gave West Bloomfield one of their better games.

3. Lake Orion (11-2): Defense travels.

4. North Farmington (12-0): Sela Lefler is a modified Bruce Banner in a way.

5. Oxford (10-2): Losing Neveah Wood really hurt in their loss to North Farmington.

6. Clarkston (8-6): Aaron Goodnough should never wear a weird polo ever again.

7. Stoney Creek (8-4): It will be very interesting to see how the Cougars handle life without Mia Carson.

8. Berkley (5-6): Despite loss to Rochester, Bears are a modified “We’re Back a Dinosaur Story”

9. Bloomfield Hills (10-1): Despite the schedule the Blackhawks are rolling along.

10. Royal Oak (8-4): Ravens are 2-3 in January, that’s not good.

11. Groves (4-8): Falcons could be in some trouble.

12. Southfield Arts and Tech (3-9): Defense is still a major issue for the Warriors.

13. Harper Woods (6-4): Pioneers have not had a very good January. In their wins they have put up over 45 points however in their two losses they have averaged 33.5 ppg.

14. Seaholm (4-8): Welcome back Shay Manchester.

15. Troy Athens (6-6): Red Hawks got a big win over Royal Oak but inconsistencies show still.

16. Oak Park (5-4): Knights are starting to turn the corner.

17. Farmington (6-6): Falcons still been a hard team to figure out.

18. Troy (3-10): Scoring 50 points is a start for the Colts.

19. Adams (2-11): Highlanders are having things rough right now.

20. Ferndale (2-3): Eagles are playing much better basketball despite lack of games.

21. Avondale (3-9): Yellow Jackets are 0-5 in January which is shocking in a way.

22. Ferndale University (1-7): Eagles going through some rough times right now.

23. Pontiac (0-11): Phoenix playing much better despite the struggles.

Royal Oak has their new Football Coach.

Written Friday January 20th at 11:30 PM

There will be a new football coach in Royal Oak

According to a source the Ravens will name Collin Campbell as their new varsity football coach. He replaces Dustyn Truitt whom was placed on administrative leave after allegations of inappropriate language in October.

Campbell was confirmed at the Royal Oak/Berkley boys basketball game during halftime on Friday night. He is a teacher in the building.

He is the third coach in two years.

Campbell takes over the football program that is in complete disarray. Royal Oak is 34-107 since 2006 and was 1-8 last season. In Campbell’s three games as interim coach they were 0-3 and was outscored 129-0 in that stretch.

Campbell was the junior varsity coach under Truitt before taking both jobs last season.

The Ravens have to replace a ton of talent and proven experience especially at quarterback and wide receiver next season. They won’t have Mekhi Jenkins as he will graduate and head to Central Michigan next season. Also they won't have lineman Ellie Finch as she will be graduating as well. Royal Oak has most of their defense in linebackers Michael Herman, Steve Johnson, and Elijah Lyons, along with linemen Sam Klonke and Aiden Tesch. They have some offensive playmakers in running back Nathan Benton, and wide receiver/defensive back Owen Louwers coming back.

It will be very interesting to see what happens with Royal Oak this season. My thoughts on the hire will be mentioned on next week's podcast.

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

 

My Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-hzILHRsGc&t=71s

Boys Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 14th at 9:45 AM

Here is the Top 23 for the week. The records will change. (& are in the Madison Heights Bishop Foley Martin Luther King Classic.)

1. North Farmington (8-1): Raiders haven't lost a beat since their long layoff.

2. Oak Park (6-1): Knights have been rolling since the New Year.

3. Clarkston (8-2): This song still describes the Wolves. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPnK39ax_AM

4. Ferndale (3-5): Eagles got a much needed win but questions still remain.

5. Troy (8-2): Mason Parker is on a roll for the Colts. 30 points against Roseville, my goodness.

6. Adams (5-3): Welcome back Brady Prieskorn.

7. Bloomfield Hills (6-2): Blackhawks defense was absolutely shredded in Ohio by a very good St. Edwards program.

8. Groves (7-2): Falcons have been quietly going along with their business.

9. Lake Orion (6-2): If there is a Sportsmanship Award, Kaydon Degraffenreid needs to be on that list.

10. Oxford (5-3): Despite loss to Lake Orion, the Wildcats have been playing really well.

11. Berkley (7-3): Bears have been playing great basketball especially Tamir Runkenvich and Jacob Sheriff.

12. Harper Woods (5-3): Pioneers making statement after statement right now.

13. West Bloomfield (6-2): Ah what happened against Harper Woods, Lakers???

14. Royal Oak (7-2): Congrats to Dylan Hoffman on breaking the school’s career scoring record.

15. Rochester (3-5): Falcons have not been the same since the Khamanni Potts injury.

16. Troy Athens (3-6): Red Hawks have been inconsistent lately.

17. Avondale (4-7): Yellow Jackets have been a Jekyll and Hyde lately.

18. Ferndale University (7-4): Eagles had been playing well but ran into a very good Oak Park program.

19. Southfield Arts and Tech (3-7): Maybe the win over Birmingham Detroit Country Day was a start.

20. Seaholm (3-6): Two game winning streak has given Maples some confidence.

21. Farmington (2-5): Falcons are getting better but not there quite yet.

22. Stoney Creek (1-8): Cougars are not in a good place right now.

23. Pontiac (2-8): Phoenix really struggling right now.

Girls Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 14th at 9:40 AM

Here is the Top 23 heading into this week.

1. West Bloomfield (9-2): Davis sisters have been playing really well right now.

2. Rochester (7-2): Not having Natalie Rayce makes a big difference for the Falcons.

3. Lake Orion (9-1): Test week awaits the Dragons.

4. Oxford (10-1): Wildcats preparing for Thursday.

5. North Farmington (11-0): Congrats Coach Jeff Simpson on your 100^th win.

6. Stoney Creek (7-3): Cougars are like the Road Runner theme song.

7. Clarkston (7-5): Elliana Robak is starting to become herself again.

8. Bloomfield Hills (8-1): Blackhawks have scored over 60 points in all four league games thus far.

9. Harper Woods (6-3): The Pioneers could have a really rough time against Oxford and North Farmington.

10. Berkley (4-5): Hmm, Are they Back???

11. Royal Oak (7-3): Ravens are showing some signs of concern.

12. Groves (3-6): Falcons are 1-2 since the calendar turned to 2023.

13. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-8): Defense is still a problem for the Warriors.

14. Farmington (5-5): Falcons have been a very odd team to figure out.

15. Seaholm (2-8): Addy Flynn has been playing really well for the Maples.

16. Troy Athens (5-6): What has happened to the Red Hawks???

17. Troy (3-9): Colts are going through a rough patch right now.

18. Adams (2-9): Highlanders are going through a rough patch right now.

19. Ferndale (2-2): Eagles got a program building win over Avondale.

20. Oak Park (3-4): When the Knights score 50 points or over they win.

21. Avondale (3-8): Yellow Jackets are 0-3 since calendar turned to 2023.

22. Ferndale University (1-6): Eagles are in a very rough spot right now.

23. Pontiac (0-10): Phoenix have been playing much better despite losses. 

Boys Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 7th at 10:30 AM

Updated Saturday January 7th at 9:30 PM

1. North Farmington (7-1): Ryan Hurst when healthy can be very good for the Raiders.

2. Oak Park (4-1): Geon Hutchins is a special player for the Knights.

3. Troy (7-1): Mason Parker has been on fire especially from downtown lately.

4. Adams (4-2): Highlanders haven’t missed Brady Prieskorn as of late.

5. Bloomfield Hills (6-1): Blackhawks don’t play for another week.

6. West Bloomfield (5-1): Lakers haven’t played in a week, we’ll know against Pontiac.

7. Clarkston (7-2): This song describes the Wolves. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPnK39ax_AM

8. Groves (6-2): Falcons can beat teams in so many different ways.

9. Lake Orion (4-2): Welcome back DJ Morrow.

10. Oxford (4-2): Welcome back Jake Champagne.

11. Ferndale (1-5): The schedule has taken its toll on the Eagles.

12. Royal Oak (5-1): Maybe loss to Lake Orion might be a wake up call for the Ravens.

13. Rochester (3-3): Falcons haven’t played in a while. Rust could be a concern.

14. Harper Woods (4-3): Julian Young has been playing well for the Pioneers.

15. Berkley (4-3): Jacob Sheriff has been the Robin to Tamir Runkenvich’s Batman.

16. Troy Athens (3-4): Red Hawks are very inconsistent.

17. Avondale (3-6): Yellow Jackets last two losses have been by a combined three points.

18. Ferndale University (5-3): Eagles starting to turn things around a little bit.

19. Stoney Creek (0-6): Cougars really miss Peyton Rummler.

20. Farmington (2-3): Falcons been getting a lot of rest lately.

21. Seaholm (1-5): Maples are really struggling to score but has been playing solid defensively.

22. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-7): Warriors really struggling to find an identity right now.

23. Pontiac (2-7): Phoenix have not gotten over 40 points in the last four games.

Girls Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 7th at 10:15 AM

1. West Bloomfield (7-2): Lakers relying on their sisterhood to win games.

2. Rochester (7-1): Big test looms for the Falcons in Clarkston.

3. Lake Orion (8-1): Dragons have four monster games coming up.

4. Oxford (8-1): Wildcats are on a collision course with North Farmington.

5. North Farmington (9-0): Raiders are on a collision course with Oxford.

6. Stoney Creek (6-2): Cougars have been rolling like the Road Runner.

7. Royal Oak (6-2): The next four games look very winnable for the Ravens.

8. Clarkston (5-5): Wolves are 1-4 in their last five games.

9. Bloomfield Hills (6-1): Blackhawks are clicking on all cylinders.

10. Groves (3-5): Kaitlyn Sanders has been playing well for the Falcons lately.

11. Harper Woods (5-2): Pioneers have no problem scoring, defending is another story.

12. Seaholm (2-6): Addy Flynn has been very good lately.

13. Troy Athens (5-4): Red Hawks are 1-4 since beating Troy.

14. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-6): Jalyn Austin has played really well lately.

15. Troy (3-7):  Rough start to the New Year for the Colts.

16. Adams (2-7): 55 points is a great scoring number. Something to build on.

17. Berkley (2-5): Bears got a much needed win but questions still remain.

18. Farmington (4-5): Falcons have been an odd team to figure out.

19. Avondale (3-7): Yellow Jackets have lost three straight since scoring 69 on Ferndale University.

20. Oak Park (2-4): Scoring 50 points has been a recipe of success for the Knights.

21. Ferndale (1-1): Eagles need to start playing some basketball.

22. Ferndale University (0-5): Eagles rebuild has been very rough.

23. Pontiac (0-8): Phoenix scored 12 points in a loss to Oak Park, it’s a start.