Top Ten Summer Basketball Rankings from who I Seen.

Written Saturday June 29th at 10:30 PM

Top Ten OAA Teams. These are NOT The Top 10 official rankings that comes in November, these are the rankings from who I've seen from the June camps.

Boys

1. Clarkston- Wolves have looked really impressive this summer especially John Kaul.

2. Avondale- Yellow Jackets are starting to gel this summer but can they gel in the Red???

3. Lake Orion- Dragons have played a really tough schedule this summer.

4. Oxford- Wildcats experience has really shown out this summer.

5. Groves- Falcons have looked really good against good competition this summer.

6. West Bloomfield- Lakers have been really impressive this summer.

7. Rochester- Max Mohl looks to be in mid season form this summer.

8. Bloomfield Hills- Blackhawks were up and down record wise this summer but they could be really dangerous this winter.

9. Troy- Defense has been really concerning this summer despite having Mason Parker.

10. Seaholm- Maples were shorthanded but they still have that same grit for new coach Spenser Adams.

 

Girls

1. Ferndale- Eagles look like they could make some noise this winter.

2. Stoney Creek- Cougars look like they haven't missed a beat.

3. Clarkston- Wolves have played a really tough schedule this summer.

4. Royal Oak- Ravens have shown a ton of improvement this summer

5. Lake Orion- Dragons were solid but they still have some issues to address.

6. Troy- Colts depth really starting to show this summer.

7. Rochester- Falcons are adjusting to new coach Andy Tomlie's system.

8. Seaholm- Maples have been up and down seeing them this summer.

9. Avondale- Yellow Jackets have shown improvement this summer.

10. Oxford- Wildcats going through a transition period under new coach Phil Dawson.

Oxford has their new girls basketball coach.

Written Monday June 17th at 10:20 PM

The Wildcats have their new girls basketball coach.

Oxford named Phil Dawson as their new girls basketball coach. The move was confirmed on the school's coaches page.

Dawson is the third coach in two months. He takes over for Rachel Bryer who stepped down in April and Will Jones who took the job last month but stepped down a few days ago.

Dawson coached at Waterford Kettering with the boys basketball program for a time and then at Avondale for two years from 2016-2018 coaching their girls program. He went 31-10 coaching the Yellow Jackets.

Dawson will have will have Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Mia Champagne, Emma Buggs, Claire Bruski, Tegan O'Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Katelyn Brockway, and Jaylen Jacobsen coming back. 

The Wildcats are also in the Red with West Bloomfield, Ferndale, Stoney Creek, Clarkston, and Lake Orion. They are in a very tough district at Swartz Creek with Davison, Swartz Creek, Grand Blanc, Lapeer, and Holly.

Thoughts

It will be very interesting to see how Dawson handles the transition at Oxford. He is known for his run and gun style and is defense first. It will be very interesting to see what happens.

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

 

Here is the conformation.

https://oxfordstrongathletics.org/head-varsity-coaches/

Adams wins State Crown in Girls Soccer.

Written Friday June 14th at 6:30 PM

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

Adams did just that.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hynes leaves his mark at Troy.

Written Tuesday June 11th at 10:00 AM

Shayne Hynes made an impact at Troy.

Hynes made it official on the Troy X page that he won't be returning as building Athletic Director. Hynes was at Troy for five years.

It's unknown what led Hynes to step down.

"Unfortunately I won't be returning to Troy High next school year. As much as this pains me to relay this message, I have a different opportunity to impact a community and student body. In a very non traditional role, I became the AD at Troy for five years as a 22 year old, commonly mistaken as a student in the hallways if you knew me six years ago, I was someone who didn't think it was possible to love and have more pride in something then I did in Clarkston. Fast forward to today, I can reflect on my old mindset and tell myself how wrong I was. I have more pride in Troy and more love for Troy than I ever did for Clarkston or anywhere else and while I get these are just words, I hope that based on my actions, interactions, and everything else over the past five years that you saw it, not just read it. I'll go toe to toe with anyone else who said they have the best job in the world. Being able to help students grow academically, socially, spiritually, whatever it may be is something I greatly value. On top of that I get around sports everyday. However what really makes the different is the people you surround yourself with. As students, student-athletes, coaches. parents, facility, or as boosters you are the ones that made my experience at Troy so memorable and rewarding. As they say try to leave it better than you found it. I think we did that in my five years at Troy but not without the help of some key people Beth Kulp, Tim Fultcher, Remo Roncone, Mike Sumnar, Mike Young, our coaches, Mike Sime, Justin Nelson, Ruddock, Custodial, a slew of parents, and game day workers, I appreciate all of you. While you all know that I'm perhaps overly competitive and winning league titles, district championships, regional championships, and State Championships is awesome, all of that will fade away into a distant memory. But the memories that won't leave me are the daily interactions I got to have with you all whether it was in passing time, playing Euchre, in STUGO, at school functions, in the trainers room, after games, Club Dub, all of it. I hope that I made your high school athletic experience memorable and valuable and in turn you all have made mine just as that too. Love you all, We Are." Hynes tweeted out on X.

Hynes made an impact at every Troy game. He was there for his kids. His impact at Colts athletic events will be missed that is for sure.

Hynes will be back somewhere and his impact will be just as great as it was in Troy.

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

Hynes statement.

https://x.com/Troy__Athletics/status/1800330899155743052/photo/3

Boys Basketball Districts are Out-2024.

Written Tuesday June 11th at 1:45 AM

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

District 22 @ Livonia Franklin

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

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

FAVORITE: North Farmington

NEXT: Redford Thurston

DARKHORSE: Livonia Stevenson

PLAYER ON SPOT: Avi Melster- North Farmington.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. North Farmington was in the Division One State Finals falling to Orchard Lake St. Marys last season. The Raiders have Avi Melster, Will MacShara, Rob Smith, and DJ Morgan coming back for Coach Todd Negoshian. Livonia Churchill had a really rough year going winless last season. The Patriots have Andrew Creedon, Emmanuel Williams, Diego Cantu, Levi Florence, Alex Mood, Max Shewesing, Jamari White, and Myles Boone coming back for Coach James McCulloh. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of proven experience in Tyler Hall, Jackson Stoops, Isiah Iacoben, Joe Berry, Jack Woods, Antonio Aiaz, Jonah Waligora, and Iyran Altrack coming back for new Coach Jack Matson. Livonia Franklin really struggled in league despite winning 11 games last season. The Patriots have Owen Pittenger, Mendale Broaden, Mark Kiss, Dominic Goines, Kam Webster, Jacob Looish, Thomas Wiwigash, Kameron Dale, and Andrew Mullins coming back for Coach TJ Hurley. Redford Thurston won 14 games last season. The Eagles have Daniel Winston, Nicholas Warren, and Tyler Floyd coming back for Coach Brian Bates. Farmington will look to have a bounce back season after injuries really derailed their season. The Falcons have Darnell Cochrane and Randy Rice coming back for Coach Byron Johnson but they took a hit with the loss of Greg Grays. Grays transferred to Birmingham Brother Rice this offseason. This district should be very interesting to see what happens.

District 24 @ Groves

GROVES

SEAHOLM

OAK PARK

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Brother Rice

 

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

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

DARKHORSE: Oak Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Greg Grays- Birmingham Brother Rice.

INSIGHT: This should be a very competitive district in Beverly Hills. Groves is loaded with proven experience. The Falcons have Jon Simpson, Josh Gibson, Paul Hubbard, Landon McKinney, and David Jones coming back for Coach Marc West. Oak Park has a ton of experience after a tough loss to Groves last season. The Knights have Jason Harris coming back for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they took a hit with their top player Geon Hutchins transferring to Warren Lincoln. Seaholm has a new system and a younger team. The Maples have Everett Wertz and Cole Baldwin coming back for new coach Spenser Adams. Southfield Arts and Tech will look to have a bounce back after struggling in the White last season. The Warriors have Cameron Dickerson and Trent Green coming back for Coach Terrance Porter. Bloomfield Hills is an up and coming team and is one of those teams that could make some noise in the Blue. The Blackhawks have D’Ron Mason, Philip Muhammad, Carter Hartfield, Mason Hitchcock, and Carter Canfield coming back along with an up and coming player in Brandon Bies for Coach Brian Canfield. Birmingham Brother Rice had a really strong postseason run last season. The Warriors have David Williams, Jacob Lamb, Jeremiah Caffey, John Lilley, Logan Hahama, and Trevor Smith coming back. They added Greg Grays who transferred from Farmington along with Landon Ecckles, and Sebastian Thrower who transferred from Louisiana for Coach Ricky Palmer. This district looks like it's Birmingham Brother Rice's district to lose but you never know.

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Lakeland

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

 

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

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Central

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

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

 

District 26 @ Lapeer

OXFORD

Lapeer

Davison

Grand Blanc

Swartz Creek

Holly

 

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

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Holly

PLAYER ON SPOT: Luke Stoffan- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in Lapeer. Grand Blanc had a deep postseason run where they went to the regional finals falling 65-40 to Orchard Lake St. Marys. The Bobcats have Donnie Huddleson, Isiah McCree, Larryeon Subblett, Malachi Evans, Matthew Evans, Omar Young, Caseton Sendry, Angelo Diedalis, Georgeyon Cannon, and Lawrence Walker coming back along with newcomer Max O'Mara for Coach Dorence Martin. Davison won 17 games but was upset 48-47 by Holly in the district semifinals last season. The Cardinals have Cortez Porter, and Jackson Bowden coming back for Coach Mike Williams but they took a huge losses when Amari Blythe and Greg Lawson transferred out of Davison to play at prep schools. Lapeer really struggled last season and will have a new coach. The Lightning have Will Fisher coming back for new coach Jack Chittle. Chittle comes from North Branch but he's very familiar with Lapeer as he was the junior varsity football and baseball coach with the Lightning. Holly has had a ton of success as of late despite losing a ton of talent last season. They upset Davison 48-47 in the district semifinals before falling to Grand Blanc last season. The Bronchos have Bowen Moore and Xander Jacobsen coming back for Coach Steve DeHart. Swartz Creek has been up and down after winning six games last season. The Dragons have Ian Johnson, Boston Koebke, Carson Wistuba, William Gray, Isiah Spencer, Alex Miller, Braylin Stell, and King Powell coming back for Coach Kevin Root. Oxford looks to have a very strong showing this postseason after winning 14 games last season. The Wildcats have a ton of proven experience in Jake Champagne, Drew Cady, Robert George, Nolan Mauser, Colatrane Hudson, Brennan Elling, Parker Bennion, Cayden Smith, Jonah Lundeberg, and Luke Stoffan coming back for Coach Joe Fedorchik. This should be a very interesting district to say the least, four teams have a shot to win this district.

 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Waterford Mott

DARKHORSE: Lake Orion

PLAYER ON SPOT: Max Jansenvanvuren- Waterford Mott.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season when Clarkston won the district over Waterford Mott. It wouldn't surprise anyone if a team wins 16 games and is the four seed in this district, it is that loaded. Clarkston was around 500 last season and they are the early favorite in this "Group of Death" district. The Wolves have Hayden Flavin, Cole Charter, Jon Kaul, Doug Schoenfield, Hayden Barrow, Caleb Harmon, Andrew Caldwell, Travis Bordine, Alex Waszczenko, Braylen Weeks, and Quinn Rosenburg coming back along with Shane Dasuqi coming in and Ace Walters transferred from Birmingham Brother Rice for Coach Tim Waslik. Avondale has had their battles with Clarkston in the past including a 38-37 loss to the Wolves last season and they both are in the Red this season. The Yellow Jackets have Jordan Bush, Jordan Clayton, DJ Moody, Makao Carroll, Isaac Gordon, Javontae Anderson, Braylin Grandberry, Karri Fields, Qualaeb Ross, and Justin Greer-Sykes coming back. They also added Jakobe Louris who transferred from Lake Orion this offseason for Coach Jaret Thomas. Waterford Kettering really struggled last season. The Captains have Jordan Jarrell, Nathan Bisnett, Hunter Jager, Trevor Meredith, Hayden Bigelow, Braycen Harrington, Cole Hendin, and Gavin Robinette coming back for Coach Steve Emert. Waterford Mott made it to the district finals and shared the Lakes Valley Crown with Walled Lake Central last season. They could be the favorite in the Lakes Valley this season. The Corsairs have Gavin Ort, Israel Anthony, JaKobe Manyweathers, Max Jansenvanvuren, Damari Stephens, Greg White, Tory Robinson, Nate Lewis, Devin Lewis, and Austin Sheets coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson. Lake Orion was very young last season and look to have a strong bounce back year this season as one of the favorites in the White. The Dragons have Zack Parks, Ryan Rocheleau, Gabe Scott, Nick Galben, Jackson Shoskey, Nate Guccione, Steven Butcher, Joey Neering, and Max Neering coming back for Coach Jose Andrades. This should be a fun district, four teams have a great chance to win this district.

 

District 28 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

Utica

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

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

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Rochester

DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek

PLAYER ON SPOT: Tyree Smith- Stoney Creek.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season but it's moved a bit east to Livernois and Walton Blvd. Utica won the district and 22 games last season behind a veteran heavy team. The Chieftains have Jonathan Carter, Cass Rissman, Kellen Condon, Eddy Tolme, and Owen Sulik coming back for Coach David Hinkle. Rochester looks to have a bounce back year after a tough 45-30 loss to Adams in the district semifinals. The Falcons have Max Muhl, Noah Kim, Luke Lower, Anthony Chirco, Kellen Muhl, and Jake Tandy coming back along with a talented freshmen who could make some noise in Owen Trombley for Coach Nick Evola. Utica Eisenhower had their ups and down last season. The Eagles have Trey Richardson, Randall Rice, Alex Edgar, John Hardiman, and Maddox Moore coming back for new Coach Anthony Muscrat. Romeo has been a really interesting story especially in the postseason winning two district games in four years. The Bulldogs have Ben Stojanvski, Salvatore Leone, Austin Habicht, Alex Kelley, and Brody Hare coming back for Coach Marv Cushingberry. Adams is coming off a very tough 66-61 loss to Utica on their home floor in the district finals. The Highlanders are a young team but they have proven experience in Colin Langdon, Clark Langdon, Trenton LaGarge, Luke Marcial, and Cannon Flynn coming back for Coach Isiah Novak. Stoney Creek looks to have the biggest pressure on them this season after winning nine games in two years. The Cougars have Gideon Beers, Chritos Marselis, Koby Rauner, Joseph Zoorob, Spencer Beckeman, and Tyree Smith coming back for Coach Jeff Olind. This district looks different on paper but you never know with how this would work.

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Berkley

DARKHORSE: Troy Athens

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jack Sobotka- Troy.

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

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Hazel Park

Detroit Osborn

Detroit Pershing

Warren Lincoln

 

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

FAVORITE: Warren Lincoln

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Pershing

PLAYER ON SPOT: DaMarion Bozeman- Warren Lincoln.

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

District 61 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Center Line

 

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

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Harper Woods

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods Chandler Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jyshawn Lucas- Center Line.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in extreme southern Macomb County with a few Macomb and Wayne County teams in this district. Eastpointe won 14 games and the district crown last season. They also have home court this season. The Shamrocks Aaron Bailey and Dalton Davis have coming back for Coach Michael Railey. Harper Woods will have a very young team especially with the guards this season. The Pioneers have Miron Bayor, Jaden McDonald, and Curtis Flaug coming back for Coach TaJuan Porter. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 12 games last season for Coach Bobby Thompson. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 11 games for Coach Kurt Wilson. Center Line won 21 games last season and comes into this district. The Panthers have Kameren Broughton, Jyshawn Lucas, Isiah Ashford, Terez Holmes, Caleli Spencer, Brian Kennedy, and Tony Jones coming back for Coach Derrick Walton. Center Line is the favorite but Harper Woods Chandler Park, Eastpointe, and Harper Woods could have strong says in this district.

 

District 62 @ Pontiac

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Macomb Lutheran North

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Madison Heights Lamphere

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

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

NEXT: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

DARKHORSE: Pontiac

PLAYER ON SPOT: Joe DeCasas- Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

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

MHSAA Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Boys-Basketball/2025-Districts

Girls Basketball Districts are Out 2024.

Written Tuesday June 11th at 12:20 AM

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

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

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

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

DARKHORSE: Livonia Franklin

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aizlyn Albanese- Farmington Hills Mercy.

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

 

District 23 @ Detroit Renaissance

OAK PARK

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Hamtramck

Warren Fitzgerald

 

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

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Warren Fitzgerald

DARKHORSE: Detroit Mumford

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ceniyah Williams- Detroit Mumford.

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

 

 

District 24 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

NORTH FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Marian

 

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

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Seaholm

DARKHORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ella Swanson- Birmingham Marian.

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

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

Lakeland

 

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

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: West Bloomfield

DARKHORSE: Walled Lake Northern

PLAYER ON SPOT: Amal Younes- Walled Lake Northern.

INSIGHT:  This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top. West Bloomfield is the defending Division One State Champs but they lost a ton of talent from that team. The Lakers have Ava Lord, Sheridan Beal, Breanna Gamble-Jones, Breasia Gamble-Jones, Jordyn Ratliff, Jaylee Head, and London Hall coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Walled Lake Northern was up and down last season. The Knights have Amal Younes, Macie Hunter, Brooklyn Zeleny, Adisa Dibra, Skyler Sweet, Eden Van Proeyen, Savannah Scott, Sarah Maktari, and Layne Biggers coming back for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was experienced last season. The Vikings have Demi'a Higginbottom and Lillian Miracle coming back for Coach Ken Nelson. Lakeland has Alena Tiernan, Aubrin Miller, Kalie Rhines, Brynn Taliercio, Jessie Liker, Kennedy Canterbury, Molly Farquhar, Leah Willis, and Peyton Baer coming back for Coach Mike Leitheim. Orchard Lake St. Marys comes up to Division One after being in Division Two. They fell 60-57 to Warren Regina in the regional semifinals last season. The Eaglets are loaded with proven talent in Mia Moss, Stella Poota, Layla Stewart, Allie Crighton, Ava Ignoglia, Jessica Asmussen, Hope Richer, Brooke Shockey, Nicole Kolwich, and Reese Holton coming back for former Stoney Creek girls and Adams boys Coach Brad Crighton. This could be the makings of a classic district at the black top in West Bloomfield.

District 26 @ Swartz Creek

OXFORD

Davison

Lapeer

Grand Blanc

Holly

Swartz Creek

 

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

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Alison Hufstedler- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district between Genesee County, Lapeer County, and Oxford. The Wildcats have Alison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Mia Champagne, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Jaylen Jacobsen, Katelyn Brockway, and Claire Bruski coming back for new Coach Phil Dawson. Swartz Creek won 10 games last season and have home court this season. The Dragons have Raeleigh Genoveski, Peyton Camper, Missy Bales, Maddie Pier, Aja Collins, Tatlot Gullett, and Brooklyn Short coming back for Coach Brian Van Buren. Holly really struggled last season. The Bronchos have Ella Azbell, Evelin Spiece, and Adlin Moore coming back for Coach Ben Varner. Davison really struggled winning four games last season. The Cardinals have Mayae Carradine, Gracie Wright, Lilah Pierson, Sammie Beller, Brooklyn Hughson, Brooke Pizzala, Darby Crystal and Savannah Rice coming back for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. Lapeer really struggled winning three games last season. The Lightning have Madison White coming back for their new coach. Grand Blanc went to the Division One State Finals last season. The Bobcats have Parc Liggins, Daya Hartwick, Paige Pittman, Joslyn Lopez, Malaya Brown, and Jordyn Eichelberger coming back for Coach Bob Taylor. The Bobcats stand as the early favorite but the Wildcats have the firepower to match it.

 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford

 

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

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: Charlotte Peplowski-Lake Orion.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district that could be very similar to last season's classic district final between Clarkston and Lake Orion. The Wolves won 41-40 on a buzzer beating layup by Emily Valencia. The Dragons and Wolves are in the Red and both have very tough schedules this season. Avondale was in a different district and had a ton of injuries which was the reason why their struggles last season. They are in the Blue and could be a really dangerous team in the division this season. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Morgan McPherson, Amaria Daniel, Khaila Bradley, Giavanni Hollie-Jackson, Sasha McClellan, and Janaye Richardson coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Clarkston is coming off a district crown but have that bad taste falling 44-42 to Grand Blanc in the regional finals last season. The Wolves have the majority of their team in Brooklyn Covert, Elliana Robak, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Ellery Hernandez, Kayla Butki, Lauren Fishtaller, Keira Zorski, Lexi Fry, and Jenna Thomas coming back but incoming players in Brooke Bond and Bella Flavin could be players to watch for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Lake Orion has been very consistent even when they had a down year winning 15 games last season. They were a very young team and has a bad taste in their mouths after falling 41-40 in the district finals to Clarkston last season. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Charlotte Peplowski, Riley House, and Dani Heck coming back but newcomers Kara Veeder. Mary Graves, and Lala Hill are be players to watch for Coach Bob Brydges. I've been hearing a lot of rumblings several players who did not play in the summer could be back for Brydges. Waterford Mott and Waterford Kettering were both up and down last season. They combined their girls basketball teams and became Waterford after not having enough players. The new Waterford team will have Payton Smith, Morgan Tassin, Trevino Marissa, Kate Saunders, Natalia Santia, Ahyma Gulley, Juilanna Lemis, and Isabella Badger coming back from Waterford Mott and they have JaNella Barber, Summer Blaine, Ellie Droops, Peyton Eakin, Sophie Munro, Kylee Nickerson, and Ella McCall coming back from Waterford Kettering. They have a new coach in Alyssa Copley taking over the new Waterford team. This district could have the makings of last season but the Yellow Jackets are a dangerous three seed and have home court as well.

 

District 28 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

Utica

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo

 

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

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Stoney Creek

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Devyn Raymond- Utica Eisenhower.

INSIGHT: This is almost the same district as last season but it's at the same gym. Utica comes into this district after being in a different district last season. They really struggled winning nine games last season. The Chieftains have Katelyn Shtogrin, Kylie Condon, Brianna LeMersie, Brooklyn LeMerise, Violet Smith, and Alexis Petruccioli coming back for Coach Jason Muchortow. Muchortow took over at Utica for legendary coach Tom McDonald who retired two years ago. Stoney Creek made history by getting to the State Quarterfinals winning this district. They had to get by Bloomfield Hills and Macomb Dakota in the regionals but fell 49-27 to Grand Blanc last season. The Cougars have Merrick Schlawbach, Izzy Ivezaj, Calista Ivezaj, Abigail Ivezaj, Mikayla Gendich, Addy Allen, Samantha Fulkerson, Taylor Fulkerson, Sophie Budzick, Jadelynn Freeman, and Jenna Cook coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Romeo had a great year winning 16 games and is a program on the rise. The Bulldogs have Claire Carmody, Layla Babich, Maya Mosley, Mya Muschong, Samantha Sackfield, and Anna Wesley coming back for Coach Ron LeBlanc. Romeo fell 37-29 to Rochester last season in the district semifinals. Rochester will look to have a bounce back season after a rough year last season. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Arisara MacDonald, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back for new coach Andrew Topie. Utica Eisenhower was very young winning 10 games last season. The Eagles have Gabriella Gojcaj, Lily Pantaleo, Paige Hays, Devyn Raymond, and Tesla Bertoia coming back for Coach Cliff Piper. Utica Eisenhower fell 53-50 to Adams in overtime last season. Adams is hoping to use the postseason from last season as a stepping stone to this season. The Highlanders have Faith Zoldus, Neveah Williams, and Lily Tomahauk coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. This should be a very interesting district to watch that is for sure.

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

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

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Royal Oak

DARKHORSE: Berkley

PLAYER ON SPOT: Maci Zeiter- Troy.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on Lexington Blvd. Troy is coming off a strong year winning 14 games but they fell 64-46 to Bloomfield Hills in the district semifinals last season. The Colts have Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Carly Higginbottom, Olivia Sprangler, Sophia Kaltsounis, Kelsey Block, Aly Matuza, Savannah Oddy, Victoria Siegan, Shavani Angadi, Brianna Bert, and Lizzie Dobbs coming back along with Maci Zeiter coming into the program for Coach Laura Guzman. Troy Athens had a rough year winning nine games last season. The Red Hawks have Yasmeen Dabbish, Alex Link, Katrina Tasich, and Farida Youseff coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Royal Oak has home court and is coming off a ton of momentum making their regional finals last season. The Ravens have Lucy Freytag, Lydia Dickens, Hannah Saunders, Jordan Hills, Vivian Lawrence, and Maddie Lawrence coming back along with an incoming varsity player in Kolbie Roelofs for Coach Brian Sopota. Berkley has been up and coming. They won 19 games and made the district finals falling to Detroit Renaissance 60-29 last season. The Bears have Avery Wintergarden, Maddie Boswall, Katelyn Sills, Nadia Watt, Hailey Kirkwood, Blessing Nweke, Caleigh Tracy, Olivia Church, and Z Diop coming back for Coach Clay Shaver. Warren Mott won nine games last season. The Marauders have Leajah Ferguson, Niah Sims, Aubrie Vojnov, Alyssa Sikorski, Allison Phillips, Conamora Ndana, Addison Brown, Sophie Simon, and Ella Schmidt coming back for Coach Patrick Schmidt. The Colts are favored in this district but the Ravens could have a strong say but watch for the Bears as well.

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Center Line

Hazel Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

 

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

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Madison Heights Lamphere

DARKHORSE: Hazel Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aaliyah Frost- Ferndale.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district with both Ferndale schools not having to see Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the districts like they did last season. Ferndale University had a rough season going winless with a very young team last season. The Eagles have LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson coming back for Coach Brianna Rowe. Ferndale has completely revamped their team in two years and is in the Red this season after winning 17 games last season. The Eagles have Aaliyah Frost, Inaya Davis, Demi Bolton, Janiya Larry, Masiah Clark, Kathleen DeVillena, and Keyanna McGarrell coming back along with emerging talents in Zahra Richardson, Janielle Turner, McKenzie Turner, Malia Taylor, Kassidy Cain, and Zayria McCrary for Coach Keith Paris. They also added Kamaria Paige who transferred from Southfield Arts and Tech this offseason. Hazel Park had a really rough year last season. They have two seniors and several sophomores coming back for Coach Anthony Brown. Center Line really struggled last season. The Panthers have Janiyah Thomas, Sydney Zosel, Jordyn Alexander, Savannah Rietz, Carlie Farkas, Reyonna Jackson, Jaylah Roper, Kaylee Lindsay, and Audrey Harenski coming back for Coach Josh Banks. Madison Heights Lamphere won 13 games last season. The Rams have Faithlynn Donegan, Taylor Dufrense, Emile Eritano, Mya Giffin, Harmony Hays, Emma Malkowski, Sophia Muskery, Faith Stinson, and Jordan Terbruggen coming back for a new coach. The Eagles are the early favorite but the Rams have the experience to make some noise, this could be Paris time to make some noise.

 

District 61 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Regina

Eastpointe

 

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

FAVORITE: Warren Regina

NEXT: Harper Woods

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods Chandler Park

PLAYER ON SPOT: Sami Thomas- Warren Regina.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Harper Woods has been up and down as of late where they won 10 games last season. The Pioneers have Amari Hutchinson and Laniyah West coming back for Coach LaToya Tate. Harper Woods should have some challengers in this district. Eastpointe won 12 games last season for Coach Deon Woods. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 15 games last season. The Cavaliers have a ton of proven experience including Dania McClain coming back for Coach Wilbur Jones. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 10 games last season. The Eagles have Brooklyn Houston, Miyonna Sims, Alzion Williams, and D'Asia McIntyre coming back for Coach Rakeem Beal. Warren Regina comes into this district after winning 13 games in a really difficult Catholic League last season. The Satellites have some proven experience in Sami Thomas, Emerson Holder, Ella Sikorski and Sara Wilking coming back for Coach Joe Charette. The Pioneers are the defending district champs and look to defend their crown but the Satellites will have a strong say that is for sure.

District 62 @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Waterford Oakdale Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

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

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

DARKHORSE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

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

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district on Giddings Road in Pontiac. Pontiac didn't have the numbers to field a team in the postseason despite their major improvement last season. The Phoenix should be much improved for Coach Christopher Wright. Macomb Lutheran North has Claire Leinberger, Kaylee Ward, Alaina Chandler, Leighton Gardner, Lauren Dean, Sydnee Davis, Grace Tobey, Aubrey Thumm, and Morgan Nyboer coming back for Coach Andrea Tiedt. Waterford Oakdale Prep is a new school that just started competition. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood won 16 games last season and is loaded with proven experience. The Cranes have Haadiya Khan, Maeve Alexander, Madeline Day, Sienna Laverde, Brooke Brown, Dalia Reisner, Trinity Dougherty, Alyssa Luo, Catherine Vaz, and Bella Miceli coming back for Coach Micaela Ellis. Birmingham Detroit Country Day is loaded with proven talent after falling 59-57 in a buzzer beating heartbreaker to Detroit Edison in the regional final last season. The Yellow Jackets have Naiya Krispin, Cece Arico, Jayla Jackson, Sanyiah Blackwell, Ariyanna Wiggins, and Alina Younes coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has been solid year in and year out. The Fighting Irish have Sarah Okka, Nikki Voto, Kaylyn Sowers, Ellie Whalen, Adriana Lorenz coming back for Coach Tom Kocik. The Yellow Jackets is the favorite to win this district but keep a close eye on the Cranes in this district.

MHSAA Districts

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

Oxford will have a new Girls Basketball Coach next winter.

Written Monday June 10th at 10:00 PM

The Wildcats are back to square one with their girls basketball coaching vacancy.

Oxford coach Will Jones had a change of heart and stepped down last week confirmed by a very accurate source.

Jones was named the new girls basketball coach for the Wildcats last month taking over for Coach Rachel Bryer who stepped down in March.

Whoever the new coach is will have Allison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Mia Champagne, Emma Buggs, Claire Bruski, Tegan O'Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Katelyn Brockway, and Jaylen Jacobsen coming back. 

The Wildcats are also in the Red with West Bloomfield, Ferndale, Stoney Creek, Clarkston, and Lake Orion. They are in a very tough district at Swartz Creek with Davison, Swartz Creek, Grand Blanc, Lapeer, and Holly.

It will be very interesting to see who takes over for Oxford next season.

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

Final Week Previews.

Written Sunday June 9th at 5:45 PM

Updated Thursday June 13th at 2:00 PM

We're into the final week of the season. Here is the Girls Softball State Semifinal and Girls Soccer State Finals Previews.

Softball

LAKE ORION vs Hudsonville

INSIGHT: The Dragons have been a team that has been playing really well as of late. Lake Orion is coming off three 5-4 wins this postseason (Stoney Creek, Macomb Dakota, and South Lyon.) The Dragons took advantage of South Lyon star Ava Bradshaw's knee injury and some timely defense from Ellie Britt along with a timely double play to win over the Lions and be in the State title game for the first time in school history. The Dragons will have to deal with an unbeaten Hudsonville team that exploded against Farmington Hills Mercy winning 10-0 in six innings in the State semifinal win. Lake Orion will have to find a way to slow down Ellie Koopman (Wayne State commit) as she is one of the best pitchers and hitters in the State. They also have Tessa Heffelbower who had a monster game against the Marlins with four RBI's in the ten run two inning explosion for the Eagles. Hudsonville has a legendary coach as well under Coach Tom Vruggick who is back in the State Finals for the first time in 12 years.

PREDICTION: This is a really interesting matchup of two teams love to hit and can pitch. It's the classic east vs west showdown. Hudsonville is unbeaten for a reason and they deserve to be here but so has Lake Orion. This has the makings to be a really interesting matchup as mentioned. The Eagles are unbeaten (41-0) and the Dragons are the underdogs, why not go with an underdog story here. PICK: LAKE ORION.

Soccer

ADAMS vs Hartland

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting matchup between two teams that don't really know each other quite well. The Highlanders are coming off a 2-1 win over Plymouth Salem in the State Semifinals. Adams will have the opportunity to see Hartland in the State Finals. The Eagles went through Lake Orion and Bloomfield Hills in the regionals. They knocked off Grand Haven 2-1 to get to this matchup.

PREDICTION: This should be a good one on Saturday afternoon. I see the Highlanders winning this one because of proven experience. I think Adams keeps the OAA tradition of not winning a Division title but a State title alive. PICK: ADAMS.

My podcast

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

Groves has their new Girls Basketball Coach.

Written Thursday June 6th at 1:12 PM

Groves has their new girls basketball coach.

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

The MHSAA website confirmed the hire.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Duleba's JD7 Basketball page

https://www.jd7basketball.com/aboutme

MHSAA Website

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

Basketball Teams to Watch REALLY CLOSELY this Summer

Written Thursday June 6th at 8:35 AM

These are the top five most to prove teams to watch this summer.

Boys

Oak Park: The Knights are the most interesting to watch this summer for a few reasons. They return the balk of their team but also they are heading to the White which should be very competitive this winter. Chemistry will be the key for Coach Durrand Sheppard and Oak Park if they want to make a return to the Red for next season.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets were a very young team that made huge strides in winning the Blue and taking Clarkston to the brink in the district semifinals. Avondale has the majority of their team coming back for Coach Jaret Thomas. The Yellow Jackets need to test themselves this summer especially with going to the Red this winter. Thomas is no stranger to the Red which helps but developing his program to be Red ready will be the key and something to watch.

Stoney Creek: This is the team I see that needs to have a monster summer. The Cougars have really struggled in the last two years and the record proves that despite having flashes of brilliance. It's Coach Jeff Olind's third year, he's got a nice blend of young talent and experience. There should be no reason why Stoney Creek should be one of the favorites in the Blue.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers went up and down last season. Harper Woods has a couple of proven scorers coming back but the sub varsities will need to be watched closely. The junior varsity program was disbanded after they got into a fight at Farmington last season. The question for Coach TuJuan Porter will be is how many of those players from the junior varsity team comes back and how's the freshmen program improves. It's going to be a challenge for Porter to see how this roster looks especially heading into winter.

Royal Oak: The Ravens are a team I'm keeping my eye on closely. Royal Oak has had a habit of starting the calendar year strong but have struggled when the year changes. I'm keeping a close eye on who Coach Aaron Smith develops in the interior, they have the shooters but interior play and consistency should be the key messages for Smith and his program.

 

Girls:

Ferndale: The Eagles return three all league players and have a strong freshmen class coming into the program. Coach Keith Paris team should be deeper but this is a program that still has program strength concerns. Moving to the Red should help Ferndale along with playing a tough non conference but will being up in this division be enough especially against a proven powerhouse like Birmingham Detroit Country Day in their district???

Stoney Creek: The post Sarah LaPrarie era starts for Coach Columbus Williams and the Cougars. Stoney Creek looked solid behind the play if the Ivezaj sisters and also Merrick Schlawbach look to be the leaders for Williams. The Cougars are a team to watch this winter, they should be solid but you never know with the Red.

Troy: The Colts will be the most interesting team to watch this summer. Coach Laura Guzman has the majority of her team coming back led by Reigan Zeiter and Diamond Prince. I'm watching the interior closely with Aly Matuza and Carly Higginbottom then there is Maci Zeiter coming into the program. Troy will be loaded with proven depth this summer. The key for Guzman will be is how the chemistry develops. The Colts have a Red capable team that's playing in the White this winter. Chemistry will be something to watch with Troy.

Farmington: The Falcons really struggled last season. They have a ton of experience coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Nowak has toughen up the non conference schedule which helps. Farmington's mindset this summer is what I'm watching for especially being in the Gold where they will be the overwhelming favorite to win the division but this team can not be content, if they are that spells trouble.

Troy Athens has their new Boys Basketball Coach.

Written Tuesday June 4th at 2:55 PM

The Red Hawks went in house with their new hire.

Troy Athens named Mitchell Vercellino as their new head coach. He takes over for Coach Dave Scott who stepped down last month.

The hire was confirmed on the MHSAA website.

Vercellino was the varsity assistant last season and was the long time the junior varsity coach under Scott prior to that.

The Red Hawks will have Nathan Piggott, Liam Dempsey, Nate Appledorn, Brendan Tucker, and Alex Beaubien coming back for Vercellino. Troy Athens went 14-9 last season under Scott.

Troy Athens will be in the White with arch rival Troy, Harper Woods, Seaholm, Oxford, Lake Orion, Farmington, and Oak Park this season.

Thoughts

I don't expect much change with Vercellino taking over the program. He is very familiar with the players so the transition period would be smoother. Expect the same scrappiness defensively as in years past with Troy Athens.

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

Here is the MHSAA website confirming the hire.

https://www.mhsaa.com/schools/troyathens/boys/varsity/basketball/2024

Baseball/Softball Regional and Girls State Semifinal Preview.

Written Saturday June 1st at 8:15 PM

Softball

Have projections for softball as well. 

Region 7 @ Waterford Mott

TROY ATHENS vs Lakeland

NORTH FARMINGTON vs BLOOMFIELD HILLS

THOUGHTS/PREDICTION: This should be a very competitive but interesting regional. Anyone can win this regional. Bloomfield Hills outscored their two opponents in Waterford Kettering (13-0) and Clarkston (2-0) by a combined 15-0 in both games. The Blackhawks have a ton of balance heading into their game with North Farmington. The Raiders had to earn their way to a district crown by beating Groves 7-4 in the district semifinal and Seaholm 4-3 in eight innings. North Farmington has been really tested as anyone heading into this regional. Lakeland might have a case to say what the Raiders have been saying. The Eagles had to survive Walled Lake Northern 6-3 in the district semifinal and survive 10-7 over arch rival Milford in the district finals. Troy Athens has been riding with a ton of confidence. The Red Hawks knocked off arch rival Troy 12-6 in the district semifinal and 12-3 over Avondale in the district finals winning by a combined 24-9 in both games. It should be a very interesting semifinal matchup with Lakeland.

PICK: Lakeland: The Eagles have a ton of proven experience and beating a team like Walled Lake Northern should help their confidence. I think Bloomfield Hills gets by North Farmington in a really tight game. I like Lakeland over Troy Athens but also that will be close. I think experience gets the Eagles to the quarterfinals as mentioned.

 

Region 8 @ Lake Orion

LAKE ORION vs Utica Ford II

Macomb Dakota vs New Baltimore Anchor Bay

THOUGHTS/PREDICTION: I watched the State Champs Softball podcast and they were very high on Macomb Dakota and the accomplishments they have had this season. Yes the Cougars have a new coach in Shelby Weeks and have had a great season which included a 7-5 win over Lake Orion at Lake Orion. The Dragons are coming off an emotional 5-4 win over Stoney Creek and their star ace Erin Flynn. Utica Ford II really wasn't tested in their district. The Falcons won over Macomb L'Anse Creuse (15-0) and Fraser (10-6) by a combined 25-6 in their two district games. New Baltimore Anchor Bay has been up and down all season. The Tars won their district over Port Huron Northern (18-0) and Romeo (3-0) by a combined 21-0. Macomb Dakota has beaten New Baltimore Anchor Bay this season in MAC play. These four teams know each other quite well.

PICK: Lake Orion: The State Champs Softball Podcast has Macomb Dakota winning this regional. Now I respect their opinion but I don't agree with it. I think Lake Orion comes out of this for a few reasons. I think they will beat Utica Ford II in a very competitive game. The Cougars should have no issue with New Baltimore Anchor Bay now that could change. Lake Orion should be motivated after falling to Macomb Dakota earlier in the season. The Dragons beat the Cougars in the regional final last season which featured an insane catch by Ellie Britt in that game. The loss to Lake Orion was the Cougars motivation earlier in the season. This could be a very interesting and very tense regional.

 

Region 14 @ Trenton

HARPER WOODS vs Carleton Airport

Dearborn Divine Child vs Riverview

THOUGHTS/PREDICTION: These are some very familiar teams in this regional particularity three of the four you kind of expected to be here in this regional. The Pioneers weren't really tested in their district. They won by a combined 30-0 over Detroit East English Village Prep (15-0) and Detroit Denby Tech (15-0.) Harper Woods will have a really difficult task against a solid Carleton Airport program. The Jets knocked off a very good New Boston Huron program 4-3 in 12 innings in the district semifinals and a really good Trenton team 7-0 in the district final to get to this matchup. The second game should be very interesting between Dearborn Divine Child and Riverview. The Falcons had no problem with Detroit Martin Luther King and Dearborn Henry Ford in their district. The Pirates had no issue with Dearborn Heights Robichaud, Southgate Anderson and Dearborn Heights Annapolis outscoring their three opponents by a combined 45-2. This should be a very interesting regional over in Trenton.

PICK: Riverview: The Pirates were a machine in both of their district games and is a proven powerhouse. Dearborn Divine Child and Carleton Airport should give them games but at the end of the day it will be too much Riverview here for them to move on.

Baseball Regional Semifinals

SEAHOLM vs Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit @ Seaholm

This should be a very interesting matchup between the Cubs and the Maples. Seaholm became an honorary member of the Catholic League. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit wasn't really tested in their district after winning by a combined 23-1 over Ferndale (13-1) and Southfield Arts and Tech (10-0.) Seaholm was very impressive in their district outscoring Royal Oak (10-1) and Troy (8-1) by a combined 18-2 earning back to back district crowns. The winner of this game will meet either Birmingham Brother Rice or Orchard Lake St. Marys in the regional final at Wayne State.

ROCHESTER vs New Baltimore Anchor Bay @ Stoney Creek

This is a very interesting matchup of two teams that haven't really seen on another. The Falcons are coming off winning the Lake Orion regional knocking off Adams 6-1 in the district finals. The Tars earned a hard fought 4-3 win over Romeo in the district finals. This should be a very interesting matchup as mentioned in Stoney Creek. The winner will meet either Grand Blanc or Flushing at Grand Blanc in the regional final.

Baseball Regional Final

ROCHESTER vs Flushing @ Grand Blanc

This is a very interesting matchup of two teams that are clicking at the right time. The Falcons are coming off a tough 1-0 win in nine innings over New Baltimore Anchor Bay. Rochester will play Flushing in the regional final after they shocked Grand Blanc 5-3 in Grand Blanc. It should be a very interesting matchup to say the least.

SEAHOLM vs Birmingham Brother Rice @ Wayne State

This will be a rematch of a 4-3 Seaholm win over Birmingham Brother Rice last season. Now they will rematch in the regional final at Wayne State. The Warriors have been dominant this season which included a 10-3 win over Orchard Lake St. Marys in the regional semifinals. This should be a very interesting matchup to say the least.

 

Girls Lacrosse State Semifinals

BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs Brighton

This is a very interesting matchup between the Blackhawks and the Bulldogs at West Bloomfield. Brighton has had Bloomfield Hills number and has been impressive this postseason after winning 19-11 over Northville. Bloomfield Hills had to survive Troy in overtime 13-11 in their regional final. This should be a very interesting matchup to watch as mentioned.

OAA Champions Crowned.

Written Saturday June 1st at 6:06 PM

Oak Park repeats as State Champions in Girls Track.

The Knights girls track and field team showed their dominance in the Division One State meet at East Kentwood on Saturday afternoon.

Oak Park scored 88 points repeating as the Division One State Champions.

The Knights did their damage in the mid distance. Oak Park got 18 points from Neveah Burns and Dayshana Kellogg in the 400. Kylie King won the 800. The Knights won the Four by One, the Four by Two, and the Four by Four relays while Burns took sixth in the 200.

Rochester finished 12th with 18 points, West Bloomfield was tied for ninth with 19 points, Bloomfield Hills was tied for 30th with seven points, Farmington was tied for 33rd with six points, Royal Oak was tied for 41th with four points, Groves was tied for 44th with three points, Southfield Arts and Tech and Lake Orion were tied for 48th with two points.

Ferndale was in the Division Two State meet at Hamilton High School. They finished tied for 49th with four points.

Oak Park has a ton of proven talent coming back next season. It wouldn't surprise anyone if the Knights are right back in this conversation.

On the boys side, Troy Athens was 13th with 15 points, Troy was tied for 17th with 13 points, Oak Park was tied for 20th with 11 points, Adams was tied for 31st with eight points, Royal Oak was tied for 36th with five points, West Bloomfield and North Farmington were tied for 41st with four points, and Groves was tied for 45th with three points.

Clarkston wins State Crown in Tennis.

The Wolves earned their first State crown in Girls Tennis scoring 28 points in the Division One State meet in Midland on Saturday afternoon.

Troy was fourth with 18 points, Adams and Stoney Creek tied for eighth with 12 points. Bloomfield Hills was 13th with eight points. Rochester was 17th with five points, Troy Athens and West Bloomfield were tied for 22nd with one point, and Royal Oak did not score.

Clarkston had three winners in Kayla Lemke, Charlotte Partchenko, and Sydney Gisez who won their respective brackets in the singles competition.

In Division Two, last season's state champions Seaholm finished second with 23 points falling to Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern who had 29 points. Groves was tied for seventh with 11 points, North Farmington was 10th with 10 points, and Berkley was tied for 15th with four points.

Congrats to Oak Park and Clarkston for bringing home State crowns to the OAA.

Girls Soccer Regional Preview.

Written Saturday June 1st at 4:00 PM

Here is my preview for the regionals.

Region Two at Oxford

BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs Milford

The Blackhawks are riding with a ton of confidence after outscoring West Bloomfield and Waterford Mott by a combined 16-0. Bloomfield Hills will be tested by a Milford team who had to overcome a tough district and knock off Walled Lake Northern 1-0 in the district finals. This should be a very interesting matchup to say the least.

LAKE ORION vs Hartland

The Dragons are riding with a ton of confidence, overcoming their three early season losses to Clarkston (3-2 in Petoskey), Oxford (6-5), and Davison (2-1.) Lake Orion has won 12 straight games since their 3-1 loss to Plymouth Salem on April 27th in Rochester. The Eagles will be a tough matchup for Lake Orion. Hartland outscored Lansing Holt, Okemos, and Brighton by a combined 6-0 in route to their district crown. It should be a very interesting matchup of different styles.

 

Region Four at Stoney Creek

ADAMS vs New Baltimore Anchor Bay

The Highlanders have had a really strong season. They won the toughest district in the State having to survive Rochester 1-0 in penalty kicks in the district finals and not to mention winning 6-1 over Utca in the district semifinals. The Tars have had a rough road thus far despite having home field in the postseason. They had to survive 3-1 over Macomb L'Anse Creuse North in the district semifinals and 1-0 over Macomb Dakota in the district finals

TROY vs St. Clair Shores Lakeview

The Colts needed four early goals to beat their arch rivals Troy Athens 4-1 in the district finals. Troy will ride their experience into a matchup with St. Clair Shores Lakeview in the regional semifinals. The Huskies come into this game unbeaten with two ties and the MAC Blue crown this season. They have not been as tested as the Colts will give them in this game. Also Troy is the Red champ.