Monday, June 12, 2017

Volleyball and Basketball Districts Are Out.

Written Monday June 12th at 3:30 PM
Updated Friday November 3rd at 11:00 AM

This blog entry will be updated with future information surrounding the teams in these districts. Also stay up to date by watching OAA Now on Orion Neighborhood Television, Oxford Community Television, and also on YouTube.

Well it's that time again, here are the districts that were released by the MHSAA along with some insight surrounding each district for Volleyball, Girls Basketball, and Boys Basketball.

Class A.

District 13

ORION
CLARKSTON
OXFORD
Brandon
Holly

This is a district that covers northern Oakland County. Holly and Brandon, whom both are in the Flint Metro League enter this district to deal with the three big OAA schools in Orion, Clarkston, and Oxford. I’m not sure if the Bronchos or Blackhawks can compete with the Dragons, Wildcats, or Wolves in this district in all three sports. Odd that Orion has fared much better in district play being on the road in all three sports. In Boys Basketball, Clarkston has to be the favorite, they are the defending State Champs and have four returners back and added a big transfer to their group. Orion has a ton back, and Oxford is a dark horse team. In Girls Basketball, Clarkston is the favorite but if Orion whom has a new coach can gel with his team than this team could threaten the Wolves. In Volleyball, you have three teams that are either State ranked or could be honorable mentions by the end of the season.

VB/GBB/BBB @ Clarkston

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford

Let’s see you got two teams that could be highly ranked or get an honorable mention in the State in this district. The favorite has to be Clarkston because of home court and experience. The Wolves are led by Abbey Malinowski, Jennifer Chupinsky, and Kayla Luchenbach. Orion last season beat the Wolves in an epic five game thriller in the regular season however Clarkston returned the favor as they went into Orion and took the Dragons out in five games of the district final last season. Orion will be very good again led by Danielle Sargent, Illyra Kalaj, Erin Collins,Wren MaCaulay. The Dragons added two transfers in the offseason, one was Sydney Smith from Avondale while the other  was Paige Briggs from Oxford. Speaking of Oxford, the Wildcats are a dark horse to keep an eye on because they have a new coach in Brian Kim. I don’t think Holly or Brandon will contend in this district. This district will either be painted in Green or in Blue.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Holly
MYSTERY: Oxford

This is an interesting district for a few reasons. Clarkston is the favorite because of talent in home court. The Wolves have Maddie Beck, Molly Nicholson, and Kayla Luchenbach along with rising star Taylor Heaton for coach Christine Rogers. If there is a team that could stand in Clarkston's way it’s Orion. The Dragons will have their third coach in three seasons in Mike Griffin. Orion will have a ton of an experience led by Cameron Coltrin, Tessa Nuss, Sydney Strenger, Shannon Falter, Sophie Wyborski, Sophie Canine, and Paytin Shadaia. The key for the Dragons will be that the players and coaches have to be on the same page, if they are and build that trust then look out. Oxford will be competitive despite being inexperienced from a Varsity perspective for coach Rachel Bryer. Holly will be interesting, they have a star in Rebecca Fugate along with Payton Price but depth will be a big concern for the Bronchos. Brandon will be very young this season and it could be a long season for them. I can see this district will either be painted in Blue or in Green.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Clarkston
NEXT: Orion
DARK-HORSE: Oxford
MYSTERY: Holly

Clarkston is the overwhelming favorite in this district. The Wolves are the defending Class A State Champs and will be Senior heavy this season. Clarkston has four Division One players on their roster, led by Foster Loyer, Thomas Kitchener, CJ Robinson, Taylor Currie, Kip Wells, Tristen Mysen, Hank Schemmel, and they have a deep bench for coach Dan Fife. Orion will be a team to keep an eye on in this tournament. They are a veteran laden team, led by Jamie Lewis, Pierce Burke, Casey Strionek, and Nate Talbot. The Dragons are well coached under Jim Manzo. Oxford should be solid with whom they have back in Michael Rasich and Nolan Harding to go along with a solid group of Juniors. The Wildcats are well coached under coach Steve Laidlaw. Holly could have a say, they have been solid in the past and is very competitive under coach Lance Baylis but I don’t know if the Bronchos get past the Dragons, Wildcats, or Wolves. Brandon has no shot against the top four teams. This district is all Clarkston.


District 14

STONEY CREEK
ROCHESTER
ADAMS (GBB/BBB)
Utica Eisenhower
Romeo
Waterford Kettering (VB)

This district could not have gone as worse for Stoney Creek in Volleyball, Girls Basketball, and Boys Basketball and here is why. In Volleyball, the Cougars are looking at Romeo and Utica Eisenhower they are going to have to get by. In Boys Basketball, they will have to deal with Rochester, Adams, Utica Eisenhower, and Romeo. In Girls Basketball, it will be Utica Eisenhower and Romeo that Stoney Creek could have to deal with. The Eagles and Bulldogs compete out of the Macomb Area Conference while Waterford Kettering is in the Lakes Valley Conference. It will not be an easy ride for the Cougars, that’s for sure.

VB/GBB/BBB @ Stoney Creek

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower
NEXT: Stoney Creek
DARK-HORSE: Romeo
MYSTERY: Rochester

Stoney Creek will have to deal with one team they are familiar with while the other they aren't so much. The good news for the Cougars and coach Ross Talbott is that they are at home. Stoney Creek will have the Stration sisters (Kate and Lindsey) along with Stephanie Smith, and Molly Asmus but the bad news is that Utica Eisenhower is in their district. The Eagles took out the Cougars in five games in the district final last season at Stoney Creek. Utica Eisenhower has a ton of talent returning in Hailey Barden, Marissa Durand, Luciana Arena, Megan Dombrowski, and Sam Palazzolo for coach Catlin LaPratt. Romeo enters the district after being paired with Macomb Dakota, New Baltimore Anchor Bay, Port Huron, and Port Huron Northern for the last three seasons. The Bulldogs have a solid Volleyball program under coach Stacy Williams and they have some talent coming back led by Alexandra Konarzewski, Kamryn Duffield, and Jennifer Phillips. Rochester could be interesting to keep an eye on as they have some experience back in Sydney Jones, Jenna Norgrove, Helena Rowland, Kaitlyn Kennedy, and Alexsandra Malaj. I don't expect much from Waterford Kettering in this district. Anyway end of the day this is a three team district with the Cougars, Eagles, and Bulldogs having great shots at winning this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Romeo
NEXT: Utica Eisenhower
DARK-HORSE: Stoney Creek
MYSTERY: Adams

This is an interesting district to say the least. The early favorite is Romeo because of coaching and experience. The Bulldogs are well coached by Connie Hernden and have a solid core of players back led by Amber Flinn. Utica Eisenhower is next in line because of whom they have back in Maryln Kosnik, Lauren DeBeau, and Paige Montreuil. Stoney Creek is in an interesting spot, they had their five year long district championship streak snapped last season losing to Utica Eisenhower in the district semifinal. The Cougars will be back in the mix despite having only one senior with Varsity experience back in Emily Eckhout but when you have a coach like Kellen James whom is a proven winner and a mad scientist, he will have the Cougars ready once the postseason comes. Rochester is in full rebuild mode but they will have Tori Hawkins and Jenna Norgrove back for new coach Al Poynter. Adams has MaKayla Smith and Grace Van Pelt back for coach Shay Lewis whom is making her return behind the bench. I think three teams have a chance to win this district while one is a big time question mark.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Stoney Creek
NEXT: Romeo
DARK-HORSE: Rochester
MYSTERY: Adams

This is an interesting district because you have Stoney Creek, Romeo, Rochester, Adams, and Utica Eisenhower. The Cougars are the favorite because of experience led by Nate Davis, Jericho Barr-Redmond, and Mike Melagarni. Adams should be a lot better after what they suffered last season when they went 0-21. Rochester is a veteran laden team led by Hunter Schlatter, LaMarco Gulledge, and his brother Corey but the Falcons have a new head coach Vance Kirkwood but they have a ton of questions surrounding them. Romeo is always going to be a tough out, they play a hard and physical. The Bulldogs have always been solid under Marve Cushingberry and they will be once again led by sharpshooter Blake McRae. Utica Eisenhower has a new basketball coach as Tom Antishin moves from the Junior Varsity to the Varsity ranks but the Eagles will have to go through an interesting transition period under Antishin. This district is interesting because of the teams that are here. There are a ton of different styles here. If I had to give an edge to someone here, it’s Stoney Creek because of home court and experience but the others are not that far off.


District 15

AVONDALE
WEST BLOOMFIELD
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
Waterford Mott
ADAMS (VB)
Waterford Kettering (GBB/BBB)
Birmingham Marian (VB)/Orchard Lake St. Marys (BBB)

This is an interesting district to say the least based on the teams that are here. Adams in Volleyball only and Waterford Mott enters this district. I don’t know if I see the Corsairs doing well in this district for all three sports. West Bloomfield enters this district and could be a major player in Boys Basketball. Avondale, Birmingham Marian/Orchard Lake St. Marys, and Bloomfield Hills should know each other very well. Birmingham Marian and Bloomfield Hills will be favored in Volleyball. In Girls Basketball, it will be interesting because you have Waterford Kettering entering in this district and will be the overwhelming favorite. Avondale and Bloomfield Hills could challenge the Captains in this district. In Boys Basketball, West Bloomfield will be favored heading into the district but Orchard Lake St. Marys wants revenge after what happened to them in the district final last season. Waterford Mott whom has a new coach could play a role in this district. The Eaglets and Mustangs compete in the Catholic League while Waterford Mott and Waterford Kettering competes in the Lakes Valley Conference.

VB/BBB @ West Bloomfield
GBB @ Bloomfield Hills

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Bloomfield Hills
DARK-HORSE: Adams
MYSTERY: Avondale

This district will likely have two State ranked teams in Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham Marian. The Mustangs beat the Blackhawks in four games last season in the district final on their home court but this season the district will be at West Bloomfield, home court is neutralized here. Both the Blackhawks and Mustangs are loaded with talent this season. Bloomfield Hills has Alexia Rousseau and Juila Caravis for coach Bob Hurdle. Birmingham Marian will be led by Lauren Wenzel, Margeret DePorre, and Madison Dowd for new coach Lauren Duquette whom comes from Rochester. Adams has a ton of experience back led by Annabelle White, Paige Hedlund, Ashley Rill, among others for coach Bridgette Harding. Avondale is veteran heavy this season for coach Joe Podvin and could surprise some people. I don’t see Waterford Mott or West Bloomfield threatening the two top teams in this district even though the Highlanders and Yellow Jackets could make things interesting for the two top teams. This district has the makings of a rematch between the Blackhawks and the Mustangs.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering
NEXT: Avondale
DARK-HORSE: Bloomfield Hills
MYSTERY: West Bloomfield

This is an interesting group because there is Waterford Kettering, Avondale, West Bloomfield, and Bloomfield Hills in this district. The Captains are the early favorite as they are talented and deep. Waterford Kettering will have Ashley Watts, Marissa Brady, Claire Broughan, and a deep bench for coach Scott Woodhall. The Blackhawks will be a tough out, led by Becca Hancock, Immani Wright, and Maryam Hashim along with home court for coach Jeff Rubin. The Yellow Jackets could be very dangerous and they have a ton of motivation. Avondale had a ton of injuries last season and it cost coach Phil Dawson's team in the district semifinal against Troy. If the Yellow Jackets are healthy, as they are led by Olivia Russell and Keiori Lee, among others, they could possibly be a major factor once the districts start. Waterford Mott could have a long season despite being competitive for coach Michelle Sklar. West Bloomfield will be very solid under new coach Bert Mosley led by Destiny Monroe. This will be a district to keep an eye on.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield
NEXT: Orchard Lake St. Marys
DARK-HORSE: Waterford Mott
MYSTERY: Avondale

Could a possible rematch happen between West Bloomfield and Orchard Lake St. Marys???, that would be the interesting question. Last season, the Lakers beat the Eaglets in the district final at Farmington to eventually get to the Final Four and now these two teams are back at it again but with different opponents in the way. Avondale could be a team to keep an eye on, along with Waterford Mott. The Yellow Jackets will be very young but you can never count out a coach Tim Morton team, they will compete and play hard. The Corsairs have a new coach in Dave McGlown whom should know these teams very well from his days at Berkley with the exception of Orchard Lake St. Marys. West Bloomfield has Tre Harvey back along with plenty of talent for coach Jeremy Dehna. The Lakers added Donovan Moore, whom transferred into West Bloomfield from Illinois. Moore is the grandson of legendary Lakers coach Larry Moore. The Eaglets will rely on Caiden Prieskorn to lead a very talented Orchard Lake St Mary's team. Bloomfield Hills is a team in deep mystery under new coach Phil Kurajian but they have Brent Bosart and Joe Hecker back for a Blackhawks team that  could be in for a long season, not only in the Red but in the district as well. Waterford Kettering is a veteran team for coach Damion O'Neil. This district though is setting up to be either West Bloomfield or Orchard Lake St. Marys moving on.


District 16

SEAHOLM
TROY
TROY ATHENS
ROYAL OAK
Birmingham Brother Rice (BBB)/Birmingham Marian (GBB)

This is interesting, four teams in the Volleyball side of things while you add the Catholic league duo of Birmingham Marian and Birmingham Brother Rice for the Basketball districts. In Volleyball, you got to look at the Colts and the Maples as a possible district clash. In Boys Basketball, Troy is the team to beat despite Troy Athens, Royal Oak, and Seaholm have experience coming back. In Girls Basketball, Birmingham Marian is the favorite with home court and some talented players but the Ravens could have a strong say now that Warren Cousino is not in their way however the Mustangs are in their way now. Birmingham Marian and Birmingham Brother Rice both play in the Catholic League.

VB @ Troy Athens
GBB @ Birmingham Marian
BBB @ Troy

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Seaholm
DARK-HORSE: Troy Athens
MYSTERY: Royal Oak

This is an interesting district over at Troy Athens with only four teams here. Troy has a star player in Jessica Robinson and two very solid players in Kelsey Moeller and Fran McBride for coach Tom Vigilant. Seaholm is an established program, they are always talented, led by Molly Ligon, and they are well coached under the coaching tandem of Jason Gambone and Heather Lippert. The Red Hawks have had a ton of success but is very young this season for coach Christine Stanichuk. Royal Oak could be a factor despite not having a lot of tournament success and they have a new coach in Emily Burwinkle. Looking at this district, any of these teams when they are playing well could have a chance to win this district.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian
NEXT: Royal Oak
DARK-HORSE: Troy Athens
MYSTERY: Seaholm

Well this district interesting to say the least with Birmingham Marian hosting in the small gym. The Mustangs are the early favorites coming into this district. Birmingham Marian will be led by Olivia Moore, Madeline Laurencelle, Lauren Montalbano, Uche Ike, and Samantha Patterson for coach Mary Cicerone. Royal Oak whom can't seem to get a break the last few seasons, the Ravens have had to deal with Warren Cousino and Kierra Flecther and Kate McArthur and now they will have to deal with another traditional State power. Royal Oak could be the biggest threat to the Mustangs winning this district behind their two stars in Samantha Potter and Jessica Adams for coach Brian Sopota. If the Ravens can get good guard play in this district then there is no reason why the Ravens can challenge Birmingham Marian. Seaholm will be tough despite losing a ton of talent last season for coach January Hladki but the Maples have Audrey Anton, Riley Annear, and Caroline Wineman back. Troy Athens has the Crumm sisters Isabelle and Maddie for coach Stacy Klumpp. Troy is always scrappy for coach Simon Bato and they have a talented player in Athena Sampson. This will be a good district but the early edge has to go to the Mustangs because of experience and home court.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Troy
NEXT: Troy Athens
DARK-HORSE: Seaholm
MYSTERY: Birmingham Brother Rice

Well this is an interesting district. Troy gets to host a district with their arch rivals (Troy Athens and Royal Oak) and Birmingham Brother Rice enters this district. The Colts have Jason Dietz along with Leon Ayers and Danny Sully that make up an experienced Troy team for coach Gary Fralick. Troy Athens is veteran laden led by Taylor McCaskill. Seaholm has Brady Flynn, Zach Ziegler, Carson Stachelski, and Cooper Mixon back for coach Mike DeGeeter. Royal Oak is mentally tough and well coached under coach Aaron Smith. The Ravens could sneak up on someone. Birmingham Brother Rice is another team to keep an eye on as the Warriors are led by Cal Ruprich, Michael Laurencelle, Jack Moran, and James Mackenzie for coach Ed Shaffer. Until I see otherwise, Troy is the team to beat.


District 21

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH
GROVES
NORTH FARMINGTON
HARRISON (BBB)
FARMINGTON
Farmington Hills Mercy

If there was one team that didn't get any favors in this district in Girls Basketball and Volleyball, it’s North Farmington. The Raiders in Girls Basketball will have to either see Southfield Arts and Tech and or a team they are familiar to seeing it’s Farmington Hills Mercy. I would have put Groves in this category but they lost a ton of talent in the off-season or they would had been a major factor. Harrison could have a very tough time along with Farmington in this district on the Girls Basketball side of things. The Warriors are heavily favored in this district. In Volleyball, the Marlins are the favorite but Groves and North Farmington could be major players. In Boys Basketball, North Farmington is the favorite to come out of this district. Southfield Arts and Tech is solid and could have a strong say whom win this district. Farmington is a dark horse candidate that is capable of surprising someone. Farmington Hills Mercy compete in the Catholic League.

VB/BBB @ Southfield Arts and Tech
GBB @ Farmington Hills Mercy

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy
NEXT: North Farmington
DARK-HORSE: Groves
MYSTERY: Farmington

In this district, you got Farmington Hills Mercy being the early favorite because of their experience. The Marlins are well coached led by Loretta Vogel and they will be led by Jessica Mruzik, Lauren Hunter, Emily Susitko, Mallory Conrad, Logan Beyer, and Grace Kane. North Farmington could have a strong say and have a chance to derail Farmington Hills Mercy reign as champs. The Raiders have a ton of experience coming back led by Dayla Hill, Katy Cangmei, Tessa Moran, Hailey Collin, and Emily Lum. Groves could surprise some people this season. The Falcons had a disappointing year and will look to make amends for what happened last season. Harrison is the wildcard, you don’t know what to expect from the Hawks and coach Michael Love's team even though Jenna Khoury, Kristen Hankins, Olivia Perkins, Julia Trautman, and Kaylee O'Keefe are back. Harrison lost a ton of talent, including Stefanie Jankiewicz whom is now at Illinois State. Farmington will be very young led by Courtney Szykowski, Jenny Cameron, Sydney Eggleton, and Kimberly Whatley for coach Katie Drews team. Southfield Arts and Tech is interesting to see this season in the second year as a merged school for coach William Reed but I'm not sure if they will contend especially with the amount of good teams in this district. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech
NEXT: Farmington Hills Mercy
DARK-HORSE: North Farmington
MYSTERY: Groves

This is setting up to be a Southfield Arts and Tech against Farmington Hills Mercy future matchup but the Warriors beat Detroit Renaissance in the district final, which was in Detroit on route to the State Final Four last season. Southfield Arts and Tech will be led by Cheyenne McEvans and Alexis Johnson for coach Michelle Jackson-Marshall’s team. Farmington Hills Mercy is the host for this district will bring their fair share of talent led by Jessica Mruzik and Jenna Schluter for coach Gary Morris. North Farmington is led by Samantha Cherney, Molly Simpson, and Patti Tzchokian. The Raiders are well coached by Jeff Simpson and could pose some problems to either the Warriors or Marlins if they see them Groves will be interesting to keep an eye on as they will have to go through a transition period. The Falcons will have talent back led by Kayla Nelson, Jasmine Worthy, and Emilie Fox back for new coach Jessica Wiesler. Farmington has Micayla Martin, Abbey Smentowski added Olivia Perkins and Nevada Hargraves coming over from Harrison for first year coach Laura Guzman. Southfield Arts and Tech is the favorite but Farmington Hills Mercy, Groves, and North Farmington are big time threats in this district.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: North Farmington
NEXT: Southfield Arts and Tech
DARK-HORSE: Groves
MYSTERY: Farmington

This is an interesting district because you have North Farmington, whom should be experienced and Southfield Arts and Tech. Farmington is your wildcard while Groves is your dark-horse. I’m curious how the Negoshain’s famous pressure trap defense will work on a big court. North Farmington lost Amauri Hardy whom was the balk of their offense as he is now at the University of Las Vegas. The Warriors are down a bit after they lost their star player Michael Flowers whom is now at Western Michigan but they have home court and have Cameron McEvans back for coach Mike Avery. The Falcons have a solid team coming back for coach Mark West despite being a little inexperienced but Mitchell Pitts, Isiah Davis, Adolphus Cast, and Cristion Williams will be back. Farmington will be interesting to keep an eye on for coach Terrance Porter as they will be led by Rey Bryant. Harrison has Brandon Cotton whom transferred in from Troy Athens and Alex Kreiske back for coach Stephan Wilson but can they defend??? This edge has to go to the Raiders because of experience.


District 22

OAK PARK
BERKLEY
HAZEL PARK
Detroit Renaissance
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
Warren Fitzgerald

This district will be interesting now that Southfield Arts and Tech got moved out of this district for Girls Basketball. Hazel Park moved up from Class B to Class A and is expected to compete in all three districts. The team that benefits from this district is Detroit Renaissance. The Phoenix could be favorites in Girls Basketball and Volleyball while in Boys Basketball they could be a threat to Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. Oak Park will also be a dark horse in Boys Basketball along with Hazel Park. In Boys Basketball, this is a dark horse district loaded with good teams. Detroit Renaissance competes in the Detroit Public School League, Warren Fitzgerald competes in the Macomb Area Conference, and Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit competes in the Catholic League.

VB/GBB/BBB @ Detroit Renaissance

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Berkley
DARK-HORSE: Hazel Park
MYSTERY: Warren Fitzgerald

Well there is not really a true dominant team here in this district. There are four teams that could win this district. The four teams mentioned here are Berkley, Detroit Renaissance, Warren Fitzgerald, and Hazel Park. The Vikings have improved each season and have turned things around led by Trinity Benton. The Spartans are always solid in the Macomb Area Conference. The Bears are always good and solid. The Phoenix have home court and is the best team in the Detroit Public School League. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on for sure.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE:Warren Fitzgerald
MYSTERY: Berkley

The path for Detroit Renaissance might have gotten easier with Southfield Arts and Tech up north in a different district. Hazel Park could threaten despite being moved up from Class B. The Vikings are experienced with ten seniors on the team that is led by Catera Clark, Liz Sternor, and Trinity Benton for first year coach Chad Ossman. Berkley is an interesting team to keep an eye on. They have a new coach Kirk Carolan. What will help the Bears is that they have Olivia Dicarlo back to provide scoring and leadership. Warren Fitzgerald is interesting to keep an eye on, the Spartans have some experience back in Amari McCoy, Shaela Lockhart, Rachel Fitzgerald, Juliana Ridky, Juliana Shellnut, Malytta Brown, and Nikoia Logan for coach JuWan Shakesphere. Oak Park will be very young this season, they lost a lot of talent to graduation. The Knights will be led by Kiya Wilson and Ariel Kennedy. The edge has to go to the Phoenix, home court, and a solid team led by Kaylee Davis and emerging freshman in MiKyah Findley, Audrianna Hill, Nika Dorsey, and Shannon Wheeler.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
NEXT: Hazel Park
DARK-HORSE: Detroit Renaissance
MYSTERY: Oak Park

This district will be very competitive and intense with four teams that will be tops or near the top of their leagues. Hazel Park, Oak Park, Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit, and Detroit Renaissance are very solid teams. Berkley is a wildcard team here. Warren Fitzgerald is a team to keep an eye on. The favorite has to be the Cubs as they have a lot of things in their favor. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit has a ton of experience led by Zach Winston, Jalen Thomas, and Julian Dozier. The Phoenix have home court and a ton of athleticism but keep an eye on the Vikings and Knights. Hazel Park is a veteran laden team led by Carl Bow for coach Brandon Barrett. Oak Park is expected to be solid as well for coach Bobby Thompson as they will be led by Jerimah Pettiway, Maliq Carr, and Jalen Knight. The Bears are a wildcard because they have a solid team coming back for coach Joe Sermo. The Spartans will be interesting as they have some talent. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on.


Class B


District 49

FERNDALE
Ferndale University
Clawson
Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Madison Heights Lamphere
Center Line

This is a new district when you look at it. Ferndale and Ferndale University come to this district and will travel north along with Center Line. Those three teams are used to being in districts involving the Detroit schools. Clawson, Madison Heights Lamphere, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day are paired in this district and are very well accustom to each other. In Volleyball, Clawson is the early favorite but watch out for Birmingham Detroit Country Day and Ferndale. In Girls Basketball, no one is touching Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the district. In Boys Basketball, Detroit Country Day and Ferndale are the teams to beat in this district. Clawson, Center Line, and Madison Heights Lamphere compete in the Macomb Area Conference. Birmingham Detroit Country Day competes in the Catholic League, and Ferndale University competes as an Independent.

VB/GBB/BBB @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Clawson
NEXT: Birmingham Detroit Country Day
DARK-HORSE: Ferndale

This district could be the year of the Trojan, in the form of Clawson. The Trojans have to be the favorite now that Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is in a different district but they have to deal with Birmingham Detroit Country Day and Ferndale. The Eagles have improved each season and could play a factor in this district. The Yellow Jackets could play a factor as well with the home court advantage so this will be an interesting district to watch.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day
NEXT: Clawson
DARK-HORSE: No One

This is going to be a rough district for anyone that has to play Birmingham Detroit Country Day. The Yellow Jackets are solid and are the defending Class B State Champions. Clawson could compete with them but I don't know for an entire game's worth. Ferndale is in a complete rebuild for coach Christina Nagle. I don’t think anyone in this district will touch Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day
NEXT: Ferndale
DARK-HORSE: Clawson
MYSTERY: Madison Heights Lamphere

This is an interesting district where five teams have a shot at winning this district. The favorite has to be Birmingham Detroit Country Day because they host and they have talent for coach Mike Bray. What helps the Yellow Jackets is that Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is in a different district. Ferndale University had it rough last season, so they would like to get back on track this season. Ferndale will be Birmingham Detroit Country Day's toughest challenger. The Eagles return all five starters and a deep bench. Ferndale coach Tom Stanton lost a tough one in the district final last season to Detroit Mumford, knowing the Eagles they like to get that bad taste out of their system. Clawson will be very competitive under coach Dwayne Graves. The Trojans have plenty of talent back to compete in this district in Dominique Stevens, Nate Vesmar, Trent Graves, Omari Johnson, Keyontte Turner, and James Glenn. Madison Heights Lamphere will be very experienced as they return the balk of their team that went 4-16 last season. The Rams have Zach Hillard, Ryan Barnett, Nate Thomas, Wally Grabowski, Jayson Whitley, Stevie Marson, Howard Shields, Andrew Shenouda, Cal Terry, Brent Berger, and Chris Grantling back for coach Josh Thelen. Center Line could also have a say as they have some talent back from a team that won 14 games in 2016-2017. The Panthers have Nicholas Hastings, Adam Jones, Tory Hinton, Lantz Barton, Jashun Houston, Jailian Houston, LaNeal Billingshea, and Zak Seyno are back for coach Chris Manchester. The early favorite has to be Birmingham Detroit Country Day but Ferndale, Madison Heights Lamphere, Center Line, and Clawson are going to have strong says.


District 50

PONTIAC
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
Algonac
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Macomb Lutheran North
New Haven (BBB)

This district is interesting because there are some new teams in this district. Pontiac comes down from Class A to Class B. The Phoenix will bring a Boys Basketball threat to this district despite looking at possibility dealing with New Haven. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep will be a threat in all three sports. Macomb Lutheran North could make an impact. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood could be a dark horse candidate in all three sports. Algonac could pose a Girls Basketball threat. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep competes as an Independent. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood competes in the Catholic League. New Haven competes in the Macomb Area Conference. Macomb Lutheran North competes in the Catholic League while Algonac competes in the Blue Water Conference.

VB/GBB/BBB @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Volleyball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
NEXT: Macomb Lutheran North
DARK-HORSE: Algonac

Looking at this district, the favorite has to be Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, they have home court to boot as well. The Irish are hungry and wanting another shot at North Branch after they took them out last season in the playoffs. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep will have experience back as well. I don’t know if anybody in this district, maybe Macomb Lutheran North or Algonac will threaten the Irish but at the end of the day no one is touching coach Becky Wroubel's team.

Girls Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
NEXT: Macomb Lutheran North
DARK-HORSE:Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
MYSTERY: Pontiac

This district could be the best chance for Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to win it. They are talented and  host this district. The Irish will benefit that Birmingham Detroit Country Day is not in their district and it could give coach Kathleen Offer that district crown this season. Macomb Lutheran North could be a team that gives Pontiac Notre Dame Prep fits. Algonac was horrible last season but the Muskrats return led by Alyssa Semaan, Emily Kochan, Abby Kochan, Olivia Blaszczak, Madisyn Wilson, and Emily Nugent for coach Al Latosz. Cranbrook Kingswood returns Liz Huang, Olivia Bowden, and Phylicia Hall. Pontiac could be competitive dropping to Class B from Class A for coach Christopher Wright. The Phoenix will have Brala Benton along with Nashlala McDonald. Looking at this district, it is made for Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to get to the next round.

Boys Basketball Outlook:

FAVORITE: New Haven
NEXT: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
DARK-HORSE: Pontiac
MYSTERY: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

This is as bad of a situation for Pontiac as it is already coming from Class A to Class B. You got New Haven, whom is a newcomer to this district but they have a strong reputation coming into this district. They are the defending Class B State Champs and have Romeo Weems coming back. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep will be solid and will be a tough out. Pontiac is a dark horse team and is well coached by coach Josh Schroeder. The Phoenix have Dominique Stovall, Cleonati Brown, and Dorian Kellem all back . Macomb Luthern North is going to be very young after going 18-5 but the Mustangs will have Christian Burkheiser, Josh Kurlinski, Connor Cavanagh, Carter Moldenhauer, and Ethan Deng back for coach Jeff DeMasse's team. Cranbrook Kingswood could have a say led by Tim Hauxwell, Alex Finney, Kobi Russell, and Christopher Smith if they are given the right matchup. Looking at this district, this is New Haven’s to lose.



No comments:

Post a Comment

Followers

Blog Archive

About Me

My photo
I have highest function of autism (Asperger Syndrome.) I'm a huge Dallas Stars fan. I like to play and watch football, especially when the Dragons play on Friday nights. I am a 2006 alum and used to play football for the Dragons. I ran track, I ran the 100, 200, 400 meter dashes along with shot-put and discus. During my time in Orion I was a manager for Junior Varsity Boys Basketball team. I'm the volleyball, girls basketball, and football announcer for the team and do the book on the road for girls basketball. I do the clock for volleyball in the fall along with girls basketball in the winter and announce some boys basketball games as well. In the spring I coach shot-put at Scripps Middle School, in my fifth season coaching. I run the shot-put for high school meets. I played Special Olympics Basketball, I've won three gold medals for them. I host "Between Taorminas" which is on ONTV along with a podcast called "OAA Now". In other various things outside of Lake Orion, I love to jet ski over Saginaw Bay. Saginaw Bay is basically my life. I'm a trained weather spotter for the National Weather Service for Oakland and Huron counties.