Girls Basketball Thoughts.

Written Sunday November 14th at 12:00 PM

West Bloomfield: The Lakers were finally tested for three quarters against Birmingham Detroit Country Day but they pulled away late. West Bloomfield is riding with a ton of confidence heading into league play. Summer Davis, Indya Davis, Sheridan Beal, Ava Lord, and Kendall Hendrix have had big games for Coach Darrin McAllister. The Lakers are clicking on all cylinders heading into league play.

Rochester: The Falcons could be in some trouble after falling by 20 to Berkley. Berkley did a very good job containing Alice Max. It is clear that Coach Bill Thurston’s team misses Kylie Robinson. They should have her back soon. The guard situation is very concerning for Thurston. Rochester could be in some trouble heading into league play as mentioned.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars have not looked very impressive especially in the last two games where they won by six over Seaholm and eight over Troy Athens. Merrick Schwalbach, Sarah LaPrarie, and Izzy Ivezaj have played very well for Coach Columbus Williams. It will be very interesting to see how league play goes for Stoney Creek.

Lake Orion: The Dragons have shown a ton of balance in their strong start to the season. Lake Orion has had six different ladies lead them in scoring every night. Coach Bob Brydges has a great thing going right now when it comes to balance scoring. Everything has started to click although the defense has been a bit concerning especially in the last two games where they have allowed 47 ppg in that stretch. Knowing Brydges, they will be fine heading into league play.

Clarkston: The Wolves have heeded Coach Aaron Goodnough’s tweet after losing to Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Clarkston has won two straight since that game and have been scoring and defending at will. It will be very interesting to see how the Wolves do heading into league play with their confidence back.

Oxford: The Wildcats have won three straight heading into 2024. Alison Huffsteddler, Sophia Rabb, and Peyton Richter have been playing really well. They have also gotten contributions from Mia Champagne and Emma Beggs for Coach Rachel Bryer. League play starts up which should tell a lot about Oxford going forward.

Royal Oak: The Ravens have proven they are not ready for the Red yet after their loss to Stoney Creek. They did get wins over Adams and Pontiac. Royal Oak is the early favorite because of their experience. They still have two more Red teams on the schedule (Rochester, Clarkston) to prove they are ready for the Red. Coach Brian Sopota’s team has been handling their business which is a great sign going forward.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks have really struggled as of late. Bloomfield Hills has lost three straight and is giving up a ton of points defensively. Coach Kristen Massey has to get this figured out and quick in league play. The formula for success is there for Bloomfield Hills, it’s just executing it is the key going forward.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers are 1-3 in their last four games and have really struggled to score points in that span. They did put 68 points on Avondale which should help turn things around for Coach LaTonya Tate. Harper Woods needs to score to be successful. They have a shot to make some noise in league play.

Seaholm: The Maples have been up and down lately. Seaholm like Groves has been a really hard team to figure out. They’ve beaten the teams they were supposed to beat and lost to the teams they were supposed to lose. Coach Chris Manchester’s team needs to find that really big win against a team they were supposed to lose to in league play to make the next step.

Groves: The Falcons have been a really hard team to figure out. They have played a tough schedule and were blown out by West Bloomfield, Hartland, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Other than that Coach Allison Hidey’s team has been competitive. It will be very interesting to see how Groves does in the league, they could surprise some people, we’ll see what happens.

North Farmington: The Raiders had been on a roll but they have lost two of three games all be it to Lake Orion and Ferndale. Offense is the name of the game for North Farmington. Coach Michael Allin’s team has scored over 40 points in their wins but under 32 points in their two losses. Anaya Billups and Asisah Jihad has been their top players but they need more from Hannah Hart if the Raiders want to make any noise in league play.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have been rolling people until they ran into West Bloomfield where they allowed 97 points. In their two losses to Livonia Stevenson and West Bloomfield, Coach Shaquita Coltrane’s team has allowed 81 ppg. They were better in this area in their wins. Southfield Arts and Tech has the offense but the defense remains the question. If they can address this area then they could make some noise in the league.

Troy: The Colts have been competitive despite the record. Troy has a new big three of Diamond Prince, Olivia Sprangler, and Reagan Zeiter. The injury to Carly Higginbottom does not help things. Coach Laura Guzman needs to find that post that stands out with Higginbottom’s injury. She has something building in Troy but with league play on the horizon, it’s now or never for the Colts.

Berkley: The Bears made a huge statement by winning by 20 over Rochester which features Alice Max. Berkley has balance and multiple players that can beat you at any night. A lot of good things have been going on for Coach Clay Shaver’s program, they host the districts which helps. If the Bears keep working and improving, they might be the most dangerous team not only in the division but sounds of 2021 in the postseason in Detroit could very well be possible.

Adams: The Highlanders have been very competitive for Coach Joe Malburg despite the record. Adams has been a weird team to figure out. Malburg has said that league play could be a turning point for his team and with how it’s set up they could do some damage. They were very competitive against Royal Oak and North Farmington but were blown out by the Red. Adams looks ready to make some noise.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks won four their last five games which is very pleasing for Coach Stacie Klump. If Troy Athens can keep playing this pace and being very competitive then the Red Hawks could win some games in league play and could be a possible dark horse in the Blue. There is a ton to like about Troy Athens.

Farmington: It has been a really rough 2023 for Coach Natalie Nowak and the Falcons. Farmington is really struggling, no sugar coating that. They have won one game this season over Ferndale University but they were blown out by Oxford. The Falcons need to find something or they could be in trouble in the division.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have lost five straight which is not a good sign for Coach Roy Christmon’s team at all. Injuries have hurt Avondale all season but the defense has been the biggest problem all season long. The Yellow Jackets need to improve defensively if they have any chance in the division.

Ferndale: The Eagles have been a surprise to some minds especially with their non conference slate going against Detroit Cass Tech, Dexter, and Macomb Dakota. Coach Keith Paris knows that he’s building for the postseason. Iyana Davis and Aaliyah Frost have been the key pieces for Ferndale. They are the favorite to win the division but it’s all about the postseason for the Eagles.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have been really struggling. They have had five games where they have scored single digit points. Coach Brianna Rowe has been developing this team but the rebuild is taking longer than thought. Ferndale University needs to do something heading into league play.

Oak Park: The Knights have some issues scoring which has shown. They struggle to score at times which is common of a young team. If Coach Tyler Washington can get Oak Park to score more points, then they would be fine going forward especially in league play.

Pontiac: The Phoenix have lost three straight in 2024 which is very concerning for Coach Corray Lett and his team. With league play on the horizon it’s important for Pontiac to get their confidence back. If they don’t then they could be in some trouble.

Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 13th at 8:40 PM

Girls

1. West Bloomfield (7-0): Lakers are rolling right now.

2. Lake Orion (7-0): Dragons have multiple ways to beat opponents.

3. Stoney Creek (7-0): Cougars haven't been impressive lately.

4. Clarkston (9-2): Wolves starting to find their way.

5. Oxford (6-3): Wildcats have been playing well lately.

6. Royal Oak (7-1): Ravens started to turn things around since loss to Stoney Creek.

7. Ferndale (6-2): Eagles making a statement, postseason will be something to watch.

8. Berkley (6-3): Bears made a statement against Rochester.

9. Southfield Arts and Tech (6-2): Defense is still an issue with the Warriors.

10. Rochester (3-4): Loss to Berkley was more about the Bears than it was with the Falcons.

11. Troy Athens (4-5): Red Hawks are playing really good basketball right now.

12. Harper Woods (4-3): Pioneers have been up and down lately.

13. Groves (3-5): Falcons got a much needed win against Oak Park

14. Seaholm (4-4): Maples struggle against the Red not against everyone else.

15. North Farmington (6-2): Raiders are 1-2 in their last three games.

16. Bloomfield Hills (2-5): Guard play is an issue for the Blackhawks.

17. Adams (3-6): Highlanders have had things rough lately.

18. Troy (3-7): Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, and Olivia Sprangler have carried the Colts.

19. Avondale (2-6): Yellow Jackets have been up and down lately.

20. Pontiac (3-6): Phoenix have been struggling lately.

21. Farmington (1-7): Falcons got a win over Ferndale University but got crushed by Oxford.

22. Oak Park (0-6): Knights have to score to be successful.

23. Ferndale University (0-7): Eagles have been really struggling.

Boys

1. North Farmington (9-0): Raiders rolling right now.

2. Troy (8-1): Colts big three has been rolling.

3. West Bloomfield (7-5): Lakers have been rolling right now.

4. Ferndale (5-5): Eagles have been hot and cold lately.

5. Clarkston (6-4): Wolves have lost two straight which is un Clarkston like.

6. Adams (8-3): Highlanders have been battle tested despite two straight losses.

7. Lake Orion (8-3): Dragons learning to win low scoring games.

8. Berkley (8-3): Bears win over Oxford is a statement.

9. Troy Athens (8-3): Red Hawks win over Harper Woods is a statement

10. Oxford (6-4): Wildcats are in the eight ball in the Blue right now.

11. Groves (4-7): Big win over Pontiac Notre Dame Prep should help Falcons confidence.

12. Farmington (5-5): Falcons are scary right now.

13. Oak Park (3-6): Knights win over Clarkston sent shock waves in the Red.

14. Royal Oak (7-5): Ravens have been up and down lately.

15. Avondale (7-4): Yellow Jackets control their destiny in the Blue.

16. Harper Woods (3-6): Pioneers have been up and down lately.

17. Pontiac (5-5): Phoenix starting to roll again.

18. Seaholm (3-7): Maples "Princeton" offense looks promising.

19. Rochester (3-7): Falcons have been playing better.

20. Bloomfield Hills (1-8): Blackhawks really struggling right now.

21. Stoney Creek (1-8) Cougars really struggling right now.

22. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-9): Warriors have been very competitive lately.

23. Ferndale University (2-9): Eagles really struggling right now.

Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 6th at 10:00 AM

Updated Saturday January 6th at 9:40 PM

 Boys

 

1. North Farmington (8-0): Raiders showing why they are who they are right now.

2. Troy (7-1): Colts big three showing why they are legit.

3. West Bloomfield (5-5): Lakers will be fine after loss to North Farmington.

4. Clarkston (6-2): Wolves fourth quarter comeback against Groves was huge for their confidence.

5. Adams (8-1): Trenton LaGardge has emerged for the Highlanders.

6. Ferndale (4-4): Eagles have really struggled despite playing tough schedule.

7. Lake Orion (7-3): Dragons will be fine after loss to Troy.

8. Oxford (6-3): Wildcats starting to find some balance.

9. Berkley (6-3): Bears finding ways to win close games.

10. Troy Athens (7-3): Red Hawks have been a much different team since their win over Lakeview.

11. Groves (3-7): The Red has not been too kind to the Falcons.

12. Farmington (4-5): Falcons are really starting to put things together.

13. Oak Park (2-6): Knights have been a very odd team to figure out.

14. Royal Oak (7-4): Ravens offense disappeared against Berkley.

15. Harper Woods (3-5): Julian Young keeps improving each game for the Pioneers.

16. Avondale (6-4): Yellow Jackets starting to figure some things out.

17. Pontiac (4-5): Phoenix have been up and down lately.

18. Seaholm (3-6): Maples are in a rut right now.

19. Rochester (2-7): Falcons have been competitive lately.

20. Bloomfield Hills (1-7): Blackhawks still trying to put everything together.

21. Stoney Creek (1-7): Cougars starting to get into bad habits again.

22. Ferndale University (2-7): Eagles really struggling right now.

23. Southfield Arts and Tech (2-8): Warriors have been up and down as of late.

 

 

 

Girls

 

1. West Bloomfield (5-0): Lakers need to research the WWE 24/7 Championship history.

2. Lake Orion (5-0): Five different players leading the Dragons in scoring per night is very good.

3. Stoney Creek (5-0): Merrick Schwalbach and Sarah LaPrairie combined for 29 points is a great start to 2024.

4. Clarkston (7-2): Wolves defense showed out after a rough outing against Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

5. Oxford (4-3): 73 points was the most points the Wildcats scored in nine years.

6. Rochester (3-3): Alice Max has become a one lady wrecking crew.

7. Royal Oak (5-1): Ravens might not be ready for the Red after all.

8. Ferndale (5-2): 60 points against a proud Troy program is pretty impressive.

9. Southfield Arts and Tech (6-1): Warriors have been a scoring machine, big week coming up.

10. Berkley (5-3): Bears getting some balance especially Madi Bonsall and Nadia Watt.

11. Seaholm (3-3): Scoring 22 points against Clarkston and have Stoney Creek next, not good.

12. Bloomfield Hills (2-4): Ruby Smith and Brie Young are double-double machines for the Blackhawks.

13. Groves (2-5): Falcons are 1-4 in their last five games, that’s not good.

14. Harper Woods (3-3): 53 points against in two games is not a good sign.

15. North Farmington (5-1): Raiders got a wakeup call against Lake Orion, let’s see how they respond.

16. Troy Athens (3-4): Red Hawks have won three straight.

17. Adams (3-4): Highlanders needed that win over Ferndale University but they have a tough week ahead.

18. Pontiac (3-4): Schedule toughens up a bit for the Phoenix but several games looks manageable.

19. Avondale (2-5): Yellow Jackets played better against Berkley but need to get healthy and quick.

20. Troy (2-6): Colts are really struggling right now.

21. Oak Park (0-4): Knights despite the struggles are getting better.

22. Ferndale University (0-5): Eagles have had a rough few weeks.

23. Farmington (0-6): Falcons are really struggling.

Basketball Holiday Tournaments and Games.

Written Monday December 25th at 7:00 PM

Updated Saturday December 30th at 10:30 PM

This column will recap the classic games heading into the holidays. If there are any other games that are added between December 27th until January 2nd please let me know. Coaches if you want to have comments on these games feel free to ask on X (Twitter.)

This blog will be frequently updated and will also be recapped on OAA Now.

All times are Approx Times, most of them will start later than scheduled.

Girls

Michigan Hardwood Classic @ Romulus

 

December 28th

FERNDALE 47, Ann Arbor Pioneer 39.

The Eagles had a really strong second half outscoring the Pioneers 33-15 and coming back from 11 points down in the fourth quarter in rout to a huge 47-39 win in the Hardwood Classic. Ferndale had a ton of balance from Demi Bolton, Aaliyah Frost, and Iyana Davis who combined for 35 of the Eagles 47 points. Coach Keith Paris has another tough one at Wayne Memorial against a good Tecumseh program looming.

 

Birmingham Detroit Country Day 47, CLARKSTON 23.

The rematch was never in doubt in the Hardwood Classic. The Wolves struggled to score in their 47-23 stunning loss to Birmingham Detroit Country Day. The third quarter was the difference as Clarkston was outscored 13-2 in that quarter. The Yellow Jackets kept Brooklyn Covert and Elliana Robak in check and limited the Wolves to 12 second half points. It will be very interesting to see what Coach Aaron Goodnough does heading into 2024.

 

WEST BLOOMFIELD 76, Chicago Wendell Phillips Academy, Illinois 35.

The Lakers showed their dominance against another out of state team in Chicago Wendell Phillips Academy in Illinois. The Davis twins, Sheridan Beal, Kendall Hendrix, Destiny Washington showed out in this blowout in Romulus for Coach Darryle McAllister. Indya Davis had 21 points, Hendrix had 14 points and Beal had 13 points. West Bloomfield has Utica Ford II in Romulus on Saturday looming.

December 30th

WEST BLOOMFIELD 73, Utica Ford II 20.

The Lakers had no issue with Utica Ford II winning 73-20 over the Falcons in Romulus. West Bloomfield was in complete control throughout and had their third running clock in four games. Summer Davis had 25 points, Indya Davis had 15 points, and Sheridan Beal had 10 points for Coach Dareylle McAllister's team. The Lakers are riding into 2024 with a ton of confidence.

Warrior Classic at Westfield Prep 

 

January 2nd

Lansing Waverly 54, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 51.

The Blackhawks lost a tough one to Lansing Waverly 54-51 on Tuesday afternoon. It was a clash of different styles as Bloomfield Hills out rebounded Lansing Waverly 57-31 in the contest. Ruby Smith had 26 points and 20 rebounds while Brianna Young had 14 points and 14 rebounds, and Ashley Forner had seven points for Bloomfield Hills. Coach Kristen Massey's team will be fine going forward.

Plymouth Canton 56, HARPER WOODS 28.

The Pioneers had two runs go against them in their 56-28 loss on Tuesday afternoon. The Chiefs went on a 21-0 run in the second quarter and a 17-3 run between the third and fourth quarters for the win. Justice Tramble score 21 points and 22 rebounds for Plymouth Canton. Kendall Kelsey led Harper Woods with 12 points. It will be very interesting to see how Coach LaTonya Tate responds going forward.

 

Boys

Motor City Roundball at Ferndale

 

December 27th

ADAMS 53, Grosse Pointe South 45.

The Highlanders earned a hard fought 53-45 win over Grosse Pointe South. Trenton LaGarge has been a scoring machine for Adams. He had 19 points in the game. Peter Kardasis had 16 points including a buzzer beating three pointer to end the half. Coach Isiah Novak has this program heading in the right direction heading to 2024.

 

Flint Hamady 48, OAK PARK 45.

The Knights have now lost three straight games. They fell on a buzzer beater 48-45 on Wednesday afternoon. Oak Park was called for an illegal screen with six seconds left which set up the winning three point shot from Jakobe Boose for Flint Hamady. The Knights need to figure some things out and quick heading into 2024 or they could be in some trouble.

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit 70, FERNDALE 48.

The Eagles have been reeling heading into 2024 after a rough second half in a stunning 70-48 loss to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. Ferndale is a very young team and playing a tough schedule has it's difficult challenges. Coach Juan Rickman needs to get this young team on track especially when the postseason comes. It is clear that the Eagles are reeling as mentioned.

December 28th

FARMINGTON 69, AVONDALE 46.

The Falcons earned their second win of the season by beating the Yellow Jackets 69-46. Greg Grays had a strong outing with 24 points for Farmington who got their second win of the season for Coach Byron Johnson. Avondale has been up and down, they will be fine. Both teams have games in 2023 with the Yellow Jackets playing Walled Lake Northern on Saturday and the Falcons playing Redford Union at Farmington tomorrow night.

Dexter 67, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 53 OT.

The Warriors and Dreadnoughts needed overtime to settle things but Dexter had a little bit more in the tank earning a 67-53 overtime win over Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors are making some progress heading into 2024 which should please Coach Terrance Porter.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 59, Grand Rapids South Christian 56.

The Lakers had to survive on Thursday evening against the Sailors winning 59-56. Bloomfield Hills transfer Drew Wilson led West Bloomfield with 30 points while Keith Gilmore had 12 points. It's a huge win for Coach Arnette Jordan over a really good program that has a ton of proven experience. Grand Rapids South Christian has not fared well against the OAA in football and in boys basketball going back to last season, the Sailors are 0-3 against the league. The Lakers have Detroit Renaissance looming next.

December 30th

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 75, PONTIAC 68.

The Phoenix trailed by double figures early in their game with Pontiac Notre Dame Prep but they came back to cut it to six. They fell 75-68 to the Fighting Irish. Wade Robinson had 34 points for Pontiac Notre Dame Prep but Pontiac fought and made it a game against a good opponent. Coach Andrew Myers will be fine despite being 1-5 in their last six games heading into 2024.

Adrian 82, HARPER WOODS 62.

It was going to be a very interesting matchup between the Pioneers Julian Young and the Maples Stevie Elam. Elam earned his 1,000 career point and had 38 points for Adrian in a 82-62 win over Harper Woods. Young had 23 points for Coach TaJuan Porter's team. The Pioneers will be a very interesting team to watch in 2024.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 83, Detroit Renaissance 78.

The Lakers had an up and down struggle with Detroit Renaissance on Saturday afternoon. West Bloomfield needed everything and then some to win 83-78 over the Phoenix. Keith Gilmore had 20 points while Drew Wilson had 18 points, Corey Pittman had 13 points, and Brendin Jones had 12 points to lead Coach Arnette Jordan's team. Jordan Sigmon had 40 points for Detroit Renaissance. The defense will need to be addressed for Coach Jordan's team heading into 2024.

Detroit Cass Tech 69, GROVES 50.

The Falcons have been reeling losing five of their last six games falling to Detroit Cass Tech 69-50 on Saturday night. Groves needs to do something to snap this losing skid heading into 2024 and playing in the Red is not an easy task for Coach Marc West and company.

 

North Farmington Holiday Extravaganza at North Farmington

 

December 28th

TROY 69, Detroit Edison 68.

The Colts have relied on their big three all season and they have delivered again. Mason Parker hit the winning three pointer at the buzzer to give Troy a 69-68 win over Detroit Edison. Parker, Chase Kuiper and Jon Whiteside combined for 57 of the Colts 69 points (Kuiper had 26 points and 11 rebounds while Parker and Whiteside had 16 points each.) Coach Gary Fralick and his team should have a ton of confidence heading into 2024.

 Here is the buzzer beater from Troy Athletics on X

 https://twitter.com/Troy__Athletics/status/1740474510456037630

 

December 30th

AVONDALE 62, Walled Lake Northern 35.

The Yellow Jackets bounced back after a tough loss to Farmington with a 62-35 win over Walled Lake Northern at North Farmington. Jordan Bush had a really good game for Avondale who needed a win to keep some momentum heading into 2024.

 

NORTH FARMINGTON 65, Flat Rock 43.

The Raiders had a really slow start but picked it up during the second half to pull away winning 65-43 on Saturday night. Tyler Spratt had a big night for North Farmington. The Raiders and Coach Todd Negoshian head into 2024 with a ton of confidence and also a ton to work on as well.

 

St. Clair Community Classic Showcase at Port Huron

 

December 27th

Hamtramck 67, FERNDALE UNIVERSITY 31.

It was a really rough day for Coach Josh Nicks and the Eagles against Hamtramck on Wednesday afternoon. The Cosmos were too much for Ferndale University. It will be very interesting to see how Nicks and the Eagles respond heading into 2024.

 

December 29th

TROY ATHENS 42, St. Clair Shores Lakeview 41.

This was a very interesting game that went back and fourth but the Red Hawks got a huge win over a very good Huskies team winning 42-41 and ending 2023 on a two game winning streak. This win should give Coach Dave Scott some momentum heading into 2024.

 

New Baltimore Anchor Bay Tournament @ New Baltimore Anchor Bay

December 27th

Grosse Pointe North 60, ROCHESTER 54. 

The Falcons went back in fourth with the Norsemen at New Baltimore on Wednesday but it wasn't meant to be for Rochester as they fell to Grosse Pointe North 60-54. Max Mohl and Jake Tandy combined for 32 points in the game. The Falcons will play Lakeland in the consolation game.

 

December 28th

ROCHESTER 51, Lakeland 41.

The Falcons bounced back after a tough loss to Grosse Pointe North with a big win over Lakeland taking third place in the New Baltimore Anchor Bay classic. Max Mohl has really stepped up for Coach Nick Evola and Rochester. They have had some timely moments from Jake Tandy as well. The Falcons will look to continue the momentum heading into 2024..

 

Detroit Public School League Holiday Classic at Detroit Cass Tech

 

December 27th

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 57, Detroit Central 46.

The Blackhawks earned their first win of the season with a 57-46 win over the Trailblazers at Detroit Cass Tech. Phillip Muhammad and Dioyne Edwards combined for 27 points. Bloomfield Hills had a really strong second half outscoring Detroit Central 31-22 in the game. This win should help Coach Brian Canfield and his program get some confidence heading into 2024.

Other Games (All games at OAA sites)

December 28th

STONEY CREEK 68, Sterling Heights 52.

The Cougars need a win in the worst way possible and they got it in a big way. Stoney Creek a lot like Bloomfield Hills was dominant through out. They got in control and never looked back leading by 25 points at one point. Tyree Smith had 24 points while Tre Walker had 13 points for the Cougars. Hopefully this is a turning point for Coach Jeff Olind and his program heading into 2024.

December 29th

Novi 55, ROYAL OAK 54 OT.

This was a back and fourth game that went overtime between the Ravens and the Wildcats. Royal Oak and Novi went to the wire but it was the Wildcats that made one more point and won 55-54 on Friday night. Coach Aaron Smith's team is fine heading into 2024.

FARMINGTON 67, Redford Union 63.

The Falcons earned a hard fought 67-63 win over the Panthers on Friday afternoon. Greg Grays had another outstanding performance. Farmington has won two straight games which is huge for Coach Byron Johnson heading into 2024.

My Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwDbSSZL-zE

Boys Basketball Thoughts.

Written Sunday December 24th at 10:14 PM

Updated Sunday December 31st at 10:17 AM

Here are my thoughts on all 23 boys teams heading into the holiday season.

North Farmington: The Raiders are rolling right now with wins over Clarkston, Groves, and Oak Park along with Farmington, Zeeland West, Flat Rock, and Detroit Martin Luther King. Tyler Spratt and Landon Williams are playing really well and Rob Smith has been very good for North Farmington. Coach Todd Negoshian has this team clicking on all cylinders heading into 2024. Negoshian has this team in a good spot right now.

Ferndale: The Eagles had two really tough losses at home. They had a 69-58 loss to West Bloomfield and a 70-48 loss to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit which set them back a little bit. Ferndale has two tough games looming with  Muskegon and North Farmington heading into 2024. Coach Juan Rickman needs more scoring out of those besides Trenton Ruth if they want to get back in the thick of the Red title picture. The Eagles were in a much similar situation to this last season.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers are a perfect Rodney Dangerfield with how they have played lately. Unlike Berkley, West Bloomfield has went through greatness like beating Ferndale, Westland John Glenn, and Southfield Arts and Tech to some heartbreaking losses like Warren Lincoln and Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, a blowout loss to East Lansing, and a tough one to River Rouge. The win over Ferndale was very important for Coach Arnette Jordan because if they played like they did against the Eagles and do that on a consistent basis then they could beat anyone especially when they get to the postseason when they could see Orchard Lake St. Marys. The Lakers earned their second straight win when they beat Grand Rapids South Christian 59-56 behind Drew Wilson's 30 points. Drew Gilmore had 20 points in their 83-78 win over Detroit Renaissance. It will be very interesting to see how Jordan does in 2024 as well.

Adams: The Highlanders bounced back after a really tough 52-48 loss to Clarkston with wins over Groves and a big one over Grosse Pointe South. Adams had been on a roll with wins over Rochester, Oxford, Macomb L’Anse Creuse North, Milford, and Northville. William Gee and Peter Kardasis are doing their part but Trenton LaGarde has stepped up for Coach Isiah Novak. LaGarde has had several double digit games and has really become that third option for Novak. Adams is in a really good spot right now heading into 2024.

Clarkston: The Wolves have played very consistent as of late with the play of Peyton Fitzsimmons, Cole Charter, John Kaul, Quinn Rosenburg and company. Clarkston is 4-1 in their last five games with wins over Lake Orion, Fenton, Adams, Sterling Heights Stevenson, and Brighton along with tough losses to North Farmington and Detroit Old Redford Academy. Coach Tim Waslik has this team clicking on all cylinders heading into 2024.

Oak Park: The Knights could be in some serious trouble with their play lately. They needed a buzzer beater to beat Warren Michigan Collegiate. They were blown out by Ferndale and North Farmington which are not good signs in the Red. Oak Park had a heartbreaking buzzer beating loss to Flint Hamady after a terrible foul in a tie game which caused the winning three point shot. Coach Durrand Sheppard needs to figure some things out heading into 2024 or it could be a very rough go especially when the postseason looms.

Groves: The Falcons have been really struggling. They have lost five in a row to North Farmington, Ferndale, Plymouth Canton, Detroit Cass Tech, and Adams. Defense has been a big problem for Coach Marc West’s team as they have allowed over 60 points in three of those four games. They also have a loss to Troy and had to survive against Redford Thurston in which they allowed 77 points. They also have wins against Oxford and Livonia Clarenceville where they won by double figures. West needs to address the defense heading into 2024.

Troy: The Colts have started to turn things around after their stunning loss to Berkley. They have wins over Southfield Arts and Tech, Harper Woods, Farmington, Novi, Groves, and Detroit Edison. Troy’s success has been based on their big three of Mason Parker, Jon Whiteside, and Chase Kuiper. Coach Gary Fralick is rolling right now. The Colts are rolling right now.

Harper Woods: The Pioneers have played a really tough schedule. Juilian Young has been the focal point for Harper Woods. They have wins over Seaholm and Bloomfield Hills but losses to Troy, Detroit Renaissance, Detroit Edison, Adrian, and Novi Detroit Catholic Central has been rough for Coach TaJuan Porter. The Pioneers look like they are starting to put things together.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have been up and down as of late. They had some really tough losses to Redford Thurston and Lake Orion along with a stunning blowout loss to Howell. Troy Athens has wins over Rochester, Waterford Oakdale Prep, Livonia Churchill, Seaholm, Southfield Arts and Tech, and St. Clair Shores Lakeview. Emmanuel Robinson has been playing really well for Coach Dave Scott. Troy Athens is in a good spot right now.

Seaholm: The Maples have been around 500 lately with wins over Southfield Arts and Tech, Avondale, and Livonia Churchill but they have had losses to East Lansing, Harper Woods, Troy Athens, Walled Lake Western, and Royal Oak are very concerning. Seaholm is very good when they keep teams under 45 points and have struggled when the opponent scored over 45 points. They scored over 50 points in each of their last two games. Coach Mike DeGeeter is more than capable of getting this team back on track heading into 2024.

Lake Orion: The Dragons have won five straight since suffering losses to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Clarkston. Lake Orion has wins over Holly, Troy Athens, Bloomfield Hills, Farmington, Oxford, Plymouth, and Rochester. Coach Jose Andrades has done a really nice job with this really young team. The Dragons have built proven scorers and it has shown. Lake Orion will be tested heading into 2024 but they are in a really good place right now and the scary part is they can get better.

Farmington: The Falcons are better than their record indicates. Greg Grays has been playing very well for Coach Byron Johnson. They have been in a ton of close games against Lake Orion, Livonia Stevenson, and Livonia Franklin even though they lost those games much closer than the score indicated. They did beat Bloomfield Hills, Redford Union, and Avondale. Farmington is a very young team. If Johnson can keep this core together than two years from now they will be very good

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks have been struggling as of late. They have blowout losses to Walled Lake Central and Lake Orion along with tough losses to Harper Woods, Farmington, Royal Oak, and South Lyon. Talking to Coach Brian Canfield it’s like putting a puzzle together. Canfield has the pieces there like a Phillip Muhammad, or a DeRon Mason, or a Carter Canfield but it’s putting it all together and it will take time. Bloomfield Hills did get their first win of the season by beating Detroit Central 57-46 behind a balanced attack for Canfield's team. It’s a puzzle when describing the Blackhawks.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have been really struggling. They had blowout losses to West Bloomfield, Belleville, Summit Academy, Troy, and Seaholm. They lost a tough one to Troy Athens and beat Detroit Fredrick Douglass and Detroit Denby Tech. Coach Terrance Porter is taking small steps with this team. They took Dexter to overtime which shows a first step that they can play with them. It will be interesting to see how Porter does with Southfield Arts and Tech as we head into 2024.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars have really struggled and the stats prove it. They don’t really have a true scorer besides Tre Walker. Walker needs to be on the floor in order for Coach Jeff Olind’s team to be successful. They earned their first win of the season by winning over Sterling Heights. Stoney Creek was up by 25 points at one point. Tyree Smith had a breakout game with 25 points while Walked added 13 points. That could be an indicator that things might be starting to turn around. Walker needs to be on the floor if the Cougars want be successful.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have started to turn things around a little bit with wins over Pontiac and Ferndale University. Avondale has kept teams from going under 50 points which is a recipe for success for Coach Jaret Thomas. Thomas has played a brutal non conference which included tough losses to Birmingham Brother Rice, Seaholm, Farmington, and Dearborn. They also have wins over Berkley, Walled Lake Northern, and Detroit Loyola as well. Thomas has Avondale in a good place right now.

Oxford: The Wildcats have won four straight after a 1-3 start. Oxford has wins over Royal Oak, Stoney Creek, Rochester, Plymouth Salem, and Lapeer along with tough losses to Lake Orion, Groves, and Adams. Jake Champagne has been a scoring machine but others have stepped up like Luke Stoffan, Jay Cady, Drew Cady, and Nolan Mauser. Coach Joe Fedorinchik has his team in a really good place heading into 2024.

Rochester: The Falcons earned their first win of the season with a 62-59 win over Pontiac. Prior to that game they had scored no more than under 50 points until this past week where they scored 57 and 62 respectably. Rochester had blowout losses to Lake Orion and Adams along with really tough losses to Dearborn Fordson, Troy Athens, Oxford, and Berkley prior to their win over Pontiac. They had a tough loss to Grosse Pointe North but bounced back to beat Lakeland in the New Baltimore Anchor Bay Classic. Coach Nick Evola has been trying to get this team on track and it looks like he has. The Falcons will be a very interesting team to watch heading into 2024.

Berkley: The Bears are your classic Rodney Dangerfield. They are off to a strong start which included an upset win over Troy but losses to Novi, Avondale, and Hartland are very concerning but to their defense they didn’t have Owen Stone in the Hartland game. Berkley has played very well since the Hartland game winning two straight and heading into 2024 with a ton of confidence. Coach Joe Sermo has this team in a better place right now.

Pontiac: The Phoenix are 1-5 in their last five games which is not good but they have been competitive in each of those games. The defense has been the problem for Coach Andrew Myers. They have allowed over 60 points in each of those losses. If Pontiac wants to get back to what got them wins over Hazel Park, Ferndale University, and Southfield Christian they have to really defend because if they don’t they could be in some trouble.

Royal Oak: The Ravens started off strong with wins over Seaholm and Bloomfield Hills. They rolled to a 7-3 start with their losses to Oxford, Novi, and Livonia Stevenson. Camden Clark has been the story for Coach Aaron Smith. They have others as well like Nick Hoffman among others who have also stepped their games up. If Royal Oak can keep this up then they could be a darkhorse in the Blue heading into 2024.

Ferndale University: The Eagles have lost three straight league games to Pontiac, Royal Oak, and Avondale and four straight if you count Hamtramck. Ferndale University hasn’t been able to get to 50 points in those games which is very concerning for Coach Josh Nicks and the points against has gone up as well. The Eagles were scoring over 50 points earlier in the season but teams have done a good job defending them. Ferndale University needs to score more than 50 points if they want to be very competitive in 2024.

 

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