Updated Basketball Top Ten.

Written Saturday December 30th at 10:30 PM
Updated Sunday January 14th at 9:25 PM

Boys.

1. Hazel Park (8-0)- Vikings sitting pretty right now in the Red. Should be tested on Friday at West Bloomfield.

2. Clarkston (9-1)- Foster Loyer put up 30 against Detroit Pershing now they wait until Friday.

3. Troy (6-2)- If the Colts lost to Clarkston by five points without Jason Dietz, just wait until the next time those two meet and Dietz would be in the lineup.

4. West Bloomfield (3-3)- Lakers back at 500 and rolling right now.

5. Troy Athens (7-2)- Red Hawks have been up and down lately, need to improve on consistency to make that next step.

6. Rochester (7-2)- Falcons held serve at home against Orion but the road hasn't been kind to them where they are 1-2 thus far. We shall see how they do when they are back on the road against two quality teams.

7. Orion (6-2)- Dragons lost a tough one to Rochester. All good teams have a bad night and that's what happened Thursday night. Might be time to ditch the green jerseys they are 0-2 in them.

8. Berkley (8-0)- We'll know a lot about the Bears on Tuesday when they play Rochester. First time since 1984 that Berkley has been unbeaten is an accomplishment but the teams they have played are a combined 17-41 thus far.

9. Oxford (5-3)- Wildcats getting back on track after a tough loss to Groves. Finally starting to get their groove back.

10. Adams (5-2)- Highlanders in a bit of a funk. This is a big week for them with two good teams they play this week.

Girls.

1. Clarkston (8-2)- Wolves bounced back against a solid North Farmington team but got snowed out Friday. Will host Bloomfield Hills on Thursday which should be interesting.

2. Royal Oak (8-1)- Ravens rolling right now, wonder how they would do in the Red???

3. Groves (8-2)- Despite a hiccup against Royal Oak, the Falcons have been rolling lately.

4. Southfield Arts and Tech (6-5)- Warriors riding Alexis Johnson and Cheyenne McEvans. They go to Orion on Thursday.

5. Avondale (5-1)- Yellow Jackets have been winning ugly lately but they are getting the job done.

6. Farmington (7-2)- Falcons are off to a great start, credit that to the impact Olivia Perkins has made on that team. Will be tested against North Farmington this week.

7. North Farmington (6-4)- Raiders have been struggling a bit. They have a big one on Tuesday against Farmington if they want to snap a four game losing streak.

8. Oxford (7-2)- Wildcats benefiting from the White but winning ugly games.

9. Bloomfield Hills (5-3)-Three Point shooting helps but relying on it too much can be dangerous.

10. Stoney Creek (3-7)- Cougars destroyed Adams last week wonder if they are starting to turn the corner a bit???

Tournament Games.

Written Sunday December 25th at 4:30 PM

Well it's that time of year that we will recap tournament games surrounding the league. Just like last year, we will have brief recaps from each game so check back frequently as this blog article will be updated frequently.

Boys Basketball

Corunna.

Sterling Heights Parkway Christian 63, FARMINGTON 61.

The Falcons (1-1) could not overcome an 11 point third quarter deficit as they fell to Sterling Heights Parkway Christian at Corunna. Jaden Adkins played well for Farmington in defeat scoring 21 points while Ray Bryant added 17 points. The Falcons will head into league play in January with two tough road games at Orion and at Rochester.

Detroit Loyola 51, STONEY CREEK 48.

The Cougars (1-2) had a tough loss at the buzzer as Lynn Derrick Brown hit the game winning shot giving Detroit Loyola the win over Stoney Creek at Corunna. The Cougars lost Mike Melarigni to a knee injury, it’s unknown if any if he will miss time. Andrew Carson had 14 points and Nate Davis added 13 in defeat. Stoney Creek will play Walled Lake Northern at North Farmington next.

HAZEL PARK 82, Detroit Loyola 61.

The Vikings (3-0) have owned teams that have the name Detroit on them lately. This time it was Detroit Loyola that fell to Hazel Park at Corunna. The Vikings experience led by David Hearns, Khari Adams, Devin Pottis, and Carl Bow were key in victory. Hazel Park would then play the next night against yet another Detroit team in Detroit Edison.

Southfield Arts and Tech.

HAZEL PARK 62, Detroit Edison 56.

The Vikings (4-0) picked up a hard-earned win over at Southfield Arts and Tech against a very good Detroit Edison team. David Hearns had 19 points while Carl Bow added 12 points and Devin Pottis had 19 points along with eight blocks from Khari Adams. Hazel Park will continue their journey back in the city of Detroit as they play another team with Detroit on it in Detroit Henry Ford at Detroit Cass Tech next.

Imlay City.

OXFORD 60, Richmond 38.

The Wildcats (2-2) have turned things around since their overtime one point loss to Orion by winning two straight games by blowouts. Oxford blew Lapeer out at home a few weeks ago but the Wildcats sent a message to the White as they blew out previously undefeated Richmond at Imlay City. Michael Raisch led Oxford with 16 points and nine rebounds while Jimmy Claudio has had two nice games including getting 15 points and Nolan Hiller had 10 on three three-pointers. The Wildcats will head into the new year riding with some confidence as they play in Beverly Hills to start league play in January against Groves.

Detroit Renaissance (Roundball)

Detroit Osborn 76, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 74 O/T.

The Warriors (0-4) scored the most points they had this season but could not get their first win as they had a tough loss to a very good Detroit Osborn team in overtime. Cameron McEvans led Southfield Arts and Tech with 40 points and Andre Floyd and Devin Baldwin had 10 points each. The Warriors will play another game in the Roundball as they play Harper Woods next.

TROY ATHENS 54, Grand Rapids Union 50.

The Red Hawks (4-1) had to comeback from a nine point third quarter deficit to stun Grand Rapids Union at Detroit Renaissance. Brent Stephens had 16 points, while Jacob Brantley had nine points, and Taylor McCaskill had nine points. What was huge for Troy Athens in their comeback win to go along with their experience in these type of games. The Red Hawks will play Okemos next at home.

NORTH FARMINGTON 49, Cincinnati Withrow 41.

The Raiders (3-1) got a measure of revenge after losing to Cincinnati Withrow last season at the Roundball but this season they got them back big time at Detroit Renaissance. Danny Dreshaj had 18 points while Kamon MacNear added 10 points for North Farmington. The Raiders will head into January with a winning record. They will play West Bloomfield next.

Harper Woods 82, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 66.

The Warriors (0-5) can't seem to get a break as they lost their fifth straight game of the season to Harper Woods at Detroit Renaissance. Cameron McEvans had 14 points while Terrell Humes Kinzer had 11 points, Joe Whitted had 10 points to lead a balanced Southfield Arts and Tech attack. The Warriors will play Hazel Park next in January.

HAZEL PARK 72, Detroit Pershing 58.

The Vikings (6-0) came out exploding on all cylinders against a very good Detroit Pershing team at Detroit Renaissance and getting their sixth win against a team that has the name Detroit on it. Hazel Park opened up a 23-4 lead after the first quarter and never looked back against the Doughboys. The closest Detroit Pershing got to the Vikings was eight. Hazel Park was balanced scoring on the night led by Carl Bow with 25 points, David Hearns had 14 points, Khari Adams had 13 points, Devin Pettis had 11 points and Kyle Washington had eight points. The Vikings will play Southfield Arts and Tech in January.

Detroit Cass Tech.

AVONDALE 59, Detroit Fredrick Douglass 52.

The Yellow Jackets (4-2) had to survive a fourth quarter rally from Detroit Fredrick Douglass in which the Hurricanes got the Avondale lead down to four and had 18 points in the quarter but the Yellow Jackets held on to get a big win at Detroit Cass Tech behind Nick Whiteside's 13 points. Avondale has won four straight since losing to Orion and Troy. They will head into the new year riding with confidence starting with a road trip to Adams.

Detroit Western 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 40 O/T.

The Blackhawks (3-3) lost a tough one to the Cowboys in overtime at Detroit Cass Tech. It was an ugly and close game throughout but it was Detroit Western pulling this one out against a Bloomfield Hills team that saw it's two game winning streak snapped. It won't get any easier for the Blackhawks once January comes around as they host Clarkston next and then have Troy after that.

HAZEL PARK 60 Detroit Henry Ford 57 O/T.

The Vikings (5-0) gutted out a big win winning against another team with the name Detroit on it. This time it was over Detroit Henry Ford despite being limited in depth and two guys fouling out before the overtime period started. Carl Bow overcame an ankle injury and hit a big three pointer late and Khari Adams had two huge dunks and a block to seal Hazel Park's fifth straight victory. Bow had 15 points, David Hearns had 14 points, Adams had 13 points, and Devin Pettis had two big buckets late in the contest. The Vikings will play in the Roundball against Detroit Pershing next.

North Farmington.

STONEY CREEK 47, Walled Lake Northern 43.

The Cougars (2-2) had to come back from 10 down (trailed 34-24) to beat Walled Lake Northern at North Farmington. Stoney Creek outscored the Knights 17-9 in the fourth quarter to get the win. The Cougars were also without their big man Mike Melarigni whom got hurt in their 51-48 loss to Detroit Loyola at Corunna and rumors state that he could be out for the season. Patrick Ghaldy led the charge for the Cougars with 17 points and Nate Davis added 15 points. This win should give Stoney Creek confidence heading into the new year and in league play with Seaholm looming next.

Plymouth Canton 59, TROY 54.

The Colts (4-1) lost a hard fought game to Plymouth Canton at North Farmington. The game was close throughout but Troy couldn't pull through against the Chiefs. Despite the loss, this game along with the other games the Colts have played well prepare them for league play. Troy will have a three game homestand starting with Bloomfield Hills then wars with Clarkston and Southfield Arts and Tech on the horizon. 

Detroit East English Village Prep 80, CLARKSTON 71.

The Wolves (5-1) dreams of an undefeated season were dashed at North Farmington. Detroit East English Village Prep came back from a 22 point deficit, an 18 point halftime deficit, and an early 14-3 first quarter deficit to stun Clarkston and the 80 points were the most the Wolves allowed this season. Clarkston was outscored 27-8 in the fourth quarter, which usually doesn't happen especially to a team name Clarkston. David DeJulius whom might have emerged as a Mr. Michigan Basketball candidate had 42 points, 17 in the fourth quarter to lead Detroit East English Village Prep. Foster Loyer led the Wolves with 21 points, while Taylor Currie had 20 points and 10 rebounds, and CJ Robinson added 19 points, including 18 in the first half in defeat. Clarkston did lose one game last season on route to a State Championship (Southfield Arts and Tech 64-60.) The Wolves will look to bounce back heading into the new year with a trip to Bloomfield Hills in January.

Plymouth Salem.

Redford Thurston 51, PONTIAC 45.

The Phoenix (0-5) lost another close one this time to Redford Thurston at Plymouth Salem. Pontiac has played a tough schedule thus far which should help them get ready for league play in January when they will host Rochester and then Orion. The Phoenix have one more game to play in 2017, they will play Southgate Anderson in 24 hours at Plymouth Salem.

PONTIAC 63 Southgate Anderson 50.

The Phoenix (1-5) closed out 2017 by picking up their first win of the season over Southgate Anderson in the third place game at Plymouth Salem. Pontiac got off to a 15-3 start after the first quarter and never looked back. The Phoenix will look to get off to a good start in 2018 when they host Rochester.

St. Clair Community College.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 62, St. Clair 34.

The Lakers (1-3) won convincingly at St. Clair Community College over St. Clair. Jalen Kelso had 17 points to lead West Bloomfield while Tre Harvey added 12 points. The Lakers will head into league play with confidence as they have North Farmington next in January.

Other Games.

BERKLEY 61, Madison Heights Bishop Foley 49.

The Bears (6-0) continued their hot start with a grind it out victory over a solid Ventures team in Madison Heights. Greg McGee and Jason Holloway were the catalysts for Berkley as they both had 14 points each. The Bears will head into league play riding with confidence as they have Ferndale next up in 2018.

TROY ATHENS 46, Okemos 40.

The Red Hawks (5-1) have won two straight after beating a game Okemos team at home. Troy Athens was led by Taylor McCaskill's 17 points and seven rebounds while Jacob Brantley added 15 points and five rebounds. The Red Hawks will return to league play in January when they travel to Oak Park next.

Girls Basketball

Detroit Cass Tech.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 69 Detroit Renaissance 62.

The Warriors (2-5) exploded offensively against a pretty good Phoenix team at Detroit Cass Tech. Southfield Arts and Tech put up 41 points in the first half but they were outscored 23-4 by Detroit Renaissance in the third quarter. The Warriors had to hold on to get their second win of the season. Cheyenne McEvans and Alexis Johnson had big games against the smaller Detroit Renaissance team. McEvans had 30 points and 16 rebounds while Johnson had 25 points and 10 rebounds and Shawna Manning had a good game adding nine points and 10 rebounds. Southfield Arts and Tech will be right back at it in 24 hours when they play in the Roundball against Saginaw Arthur Hill.

Detroit Northwestern (Roundball)

CLARKSTON 49 Chandler Park Academy 45.

The Wolves (6-1) have had some strange reason problems at holding leads, it happened against Ypsilanti Arbor Prep, it almost happened against Southfield Arts and Tech but they found a way to win that game, and it almost happened against Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy. Clarkston survived behind Kayla Luchenbach had 15 points points to lead the Wolves and Maddie Beck added 13 points, four steals, and four assists. Clarkston will be right back at it tomorrow when they play Detroit Mumford.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 57, Saginaw Arthur Hill 33.

The Warriors (3-5) have won two straight after beating Saginaw Arthur Hill at Detroit Northwestern. Alexis Johnson had 17 points and nine rebounds while Kayiona Wills had 11 points, four rebounds, and three assists, Cheyenne McEvans had eight points and six rebounds. D'Layna Holloman had eight points and four assists, while Shawna Manning added eight points, and four rebounds for Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors will go back into league play in January when they travel to North Farmington.

PONTIAC, Lansing Eastern-NL

In a matchup that featured two very good guards in Pontiac's Bre Belton and Lansing Eastern's Natutiqa Garcia. Once we find out the results, we will recap this game.

OAK PARK 46, Toledo Waite 35.

The Knights (3-3) snapped a three game losing streak with a convincing win over Toledo Waite at Detroit Northwestern. Maxime Hill led Oak Park with 25 points and seven rebounds while Kamry Hill added eight points and Aahiayah Garnder had six points and 13 rebounds.Toledo Waite did cut the Knights lead to five points in the third quarter but Oak Park answered the bell and put them away thanks to a very solid performance on the glass. Oak Park out-rebounded Toledo Waite 37-27 in the contest. The Knights will head to Avondale next in January.

CLARKSTON 59, Detroit Mumford 45.

The Wolves (7-1) height proved to be too much for Detroit Mumford. Clarkston also used a strong second half to beat the Mustangs after only being up 26-24 at the half. Molly Nicholson, Kayla Luchenbach, and Maddie Beck were huge. The trio combined to score 46 of the team's 59 points. Beck had 17 points, Luchenbach had 16 points, and Nicholson added 13 points for the Wolves. Clarkston will head into January with another non league game against Warren Cousino on the road.

Kalamazoo Central 45, NORTH FARMINGTON 37.

The Raiders (6-2) suffered their second loss in two days at Detroit Northwestern to Kalamazoo Central. Samantha Cherney led North Farmington with 11 points, eight rebounds, and eight blocks while Maya Kelly had 10 points, Khyria King had nine points, and Molly Simpson had six points. The Raiders will look to bounce back in league play in January when they play Southfield Arts and Tech.

STONEY CREEK 44, Flat Rock 23.

The Cougars (2-5) picked up their second win of the season at Detroit Northwestern with a 21 point win over Flat Rock. Stoney Creek was dominant throughout the game. They were led by Emily Echout's 17 points and Lily DiPanni's 12 points. The Cougars will play Bloomfield Hills next in January.

FARMINGTON 59, Detroit Northwestern 16.

The Falcons (5-2) were very impressive in blowing out Detroit Northwestern on their home floor. The difference was Olivia Perkins. Perkins was phenomenal getting 22 points and Fasia Rimson added 11 points for Farmington. The Falcons dominated in all phases and will look to continue the trend when they play Berkley in January.

Bloomfield Hills.

GROVES 55, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 42.

The Falcons (5-2) keep rolling along after beating Pontiac Notre Dame Prep at Bloomfield Hills. Groves had big games from Sha Carter and Emilie Felix in victory over a very good Fighting Irish team. Carter had 20 points while Felix added 12 points. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is 0-4 against the OAA this season but the Irish are proving why they play tough against the league. The Falcons will go back into league play in January with Rochester next.

Royal Oak Shrine 48, WEST BLOOMFIELD 27.

The Lakers (1-6) had a rough showing against a good Royal Oak Shrine team at Bloomfield Hills losing by 21 points. West Bloomfield has lost five of six under first year coach Bert Mosley. The Lakers let Grace Murray (20 points) and Audrey North (10 points) combined for 30 points. West Bloomfield needs to figure things out in a hurry and if they don't then it could be a long season. The Lakers will head back into league play needing to turn things around in a big way, starting with Troy next.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 57, River Rouge 51.

The Blackhawks (3-2) picked up a big win at home against a very good River Rouge team behind the three point ball. Bloomfield Hills had eight threes in the contest. Jordan Banks had 17 points while Maryam Hashim and Grace Getz had 15 points each and Becca Hancock had six points for the Blackhawks. Bloomfield Hills travels to Stoney Creek next in January.

Other Games.

Chandler Park Academy 64, NORTH FARMINGTON 39.

The Raiders (6-1) had a rough time with Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy at home. The 64 points allowed was the most they allowed this season. North Farmington was led by Maya Kelly with 15 points while Samantha Cherney had 13 points and 15 rebounds and Molly Simpson had eight points. The Raiders will be back in action in the Roundball against Kalamazoo Central in 24 hours.

Chippewa Valley 32, TROY ATHENS 28.

The Red Hawks (2-5) outrebounded Chippewa Valley 38-23 but turnovers would be the reason why Troy Athens lost at home to the Big Reds. Isabelle Crumm led the Red Hawks with seven points and 16 rebounds while CeCe Resendez and Juila Rower had six point each and Clara Shoales had eight rebounds. Troy Athens led 17-10 at the half but a 11-5 run decided the game in favor of Chippewa Valley.
 

Kithier Family Sues MHSAA and Chippewa Valley Schools.

Written Monday December 18th at 12:15 PM
Updated Saturday December 30th at 12:15 AM

Well here we go, it has happened.

According to the Detroit News, the Kithier family has sued the MHSAA and the Chippewa Valley School District, which includes Macomb Dakota along with MHSAA Executive Director Jack Roberts, MHSAA Associate Director Tom Rashid, Chippewa Valley Superintendent Ron Roberts, Macomb Dakota Athletic Director Michael Fusco, and Macomb Dakota Principal Paul Sibley.

The Kithier family filed the lawsuit in Federal Court in Detroit saying that his 14th Amendment rights were violated. His family said that the environment at Macomb Dakota was toxic and that the transfer was for academic reasons, not athletic reasons. Also the lawsuit claims of harassment by his former coach Paul Tocco.

The lawsuit also seeks damages and also forces the league to make Kithier eligible by January 15th.

They will seek an injunction next week.

The case will be heard by Marianne Battini. She is a Federal Judge in the Eastern District of Michigan.

This case according to the lawsuit that the plaintiffs in the case requested that the trial be held by a jury.

There were two sworn affidavits, one from Clarkston Superintendent Rod Rock, and the other was from Kithier's mother Jade.

In Kithier's affidavit, she said that there were "unfit academic conditions at (Macomb) Dakota, including classrooms in which his teachers do not have control over their classrooms which creates a chaotic and substandard learning environment for Thomas as well as alleging some teachers often don't return tests and papers in a timely matter."

Kithier's mother also alleges in the affidavit that once Macomb Dakota officials knew that he would transfer, they started harassing him. It alleges on six occasions that Tocco caused Kithier to be 15 minutes late for a class because he wanted to talk about Kithier's future plans and another allegation alleges that another teacher removed Kithier from an English class where he was taking an exam just to convince him to stay at Macomb Dakota. Once his mind was made up that he was leaving, Tocco and other Macomb Dakota officials took jabs at him on social media.

Rock's affidavit alleges that there is a friendship between Fusco and Rashid and that the friendship was the reason why Kithier was ineligible. Rock also mentions the conversation between Rashid and Clarkston Athletic Director Jeff Kosin where Rashid and Kosin were not on the same page. Rock also said that "These actions are reprehensible in the face of a young man who deserves equal, fair, and unbiased due process."

The lawsuit said the undue influence that the MHSAA found against Kithier's transfer was from the friendship between Fusco and Rashid which has gone back 30 years.

The family said they looked at other schools like Troy whom has a strong academic success rate, Utica, and Grosse Pointe where Jane works as a teacher.

Clarkston requested and was granted a right to attend a January 10th meeting with the MHSAA Executive Committee to which they added more information but Roberts and Rashid recused themselves from the proceedings.

The family also said that they wanted to speak with Roberts but was denied by Rashid. The league said it was not protocol to interview parents and athletes but respond and interact with the schools in question.

What Could This Cause???
 
The Kithier situation would create an unprecedented circumstance when it comes to players that want to transfer for athletic reasons.

Kithier’s family hired two well known attorneys in Steve Fishman whom went to college (Michigan) with Clarkston coach Dan Fife and Ven Johnson.

Kithier whom is a future Michigan State recruit transferred to Clarkston from Macomb Dakota this summer however his parents moved in with him later to deal with an ailing family member in Macomb. The house in Macomb is now for sale.

The reason why Kithier was deemed ineligible to play High School Basketball is because of a links rule in the transfer rule. The link was his connection in AAU basketball to his future Michigan State teammate Foster Loyer. Macomb Dakota filed a complaint after not signing the Educational Transfer form to the MHSAA saying that the transfer was athletically motivated and the MHSAA sided with Macomb Dakota on the issue thus making Kithier ineligible for the whole season.

The Kithier family said the move was for academic reasons and that Macomb Dakota didn’t have the math course that he needed along with other communication classes to get to his future major which is communication. They felt that Clarkston was the best place for their son. Clarkston does have a communication studio with Independence Township Television inside the school. Macomb Dakota does not have that at all.

Kithier and his family went to the Chippewa Valley School Board meeting last month trying to get their side of the story out and hopefully convince the Board to reverse its decision.

It did not happen.

What will this Court Case Decide???

This court case could decide the fate of future transfers and if they are free to go where ever they want without penalty. Clearly the Kithier case has legal rulings here with the 14th amendment in the Constitution.

Michigan is a School of Choice State for Academics but not Athletics. The MHSAA which has 700 members including the 23 OAA teams in the league have voluntarily joined supported the academic transfer rules in 1997.

If this case goes to the Kithier family then it could lead to a temporary restraining order giving the opportunity for him to play right away for Clarkston but it also opens the door for other athletically motivated transfers to use the court system to get them to play right away.

Who’s at Fault???

According to an article by Mick McCabe whom worked with the Detroit Free Press, he said that everyone involved is at fault.

On the MHSAA front, the league doesn’t enforce it’s transfer rules to the highest of standards. It has become open season when it comes to transfers especially with those that have numerous scholarship offers to play at Division One Schools. It has been everywhere especially in football and basketball. In football, Detroit Cass Tech had 11 transfers and numerous players throughout the years while West Bloomfield had five in the offseason and we know about Waterford Mott and their football program when it came to transfers. In basketball, Benton Harbor has four transfers that are playing, two from Stevensville Lakeshore and two from Berrien Springs and they are playing right now.

On the Kithier family, they had to have known that Clarkston was a basketball power (they are the defending Class A. State Champs.) Kithier's teams at Macomb Dakota lost to Clarkston two of the last three seasons including last season at Grand Blanc in the Regional Semifinal. According to McCabe he said that the transfer was academically motivated is total nonsense and that all athletic transfers were athletically motivated.

Clarkston Basketball is no strangers to the transfer bug. Tabin Throgmorton came from Walled Lake Northern, Tristen Mysen came from Oxford, Taylor Currie came from Worthington Christian in Ohio, Hank Schimel came from Maryland, Dylan Alderson came from Davison, and Loyer has hopped around because he was the son of former Detroit Pistons coach John Loyer but he and his family settled during Foster’s Middle School years.

Macomb Dakota are no shining angels when it comes to transfers, they have benefited from bringing in transfers themselves that have had deep playoff runs. The Cougars Boys Basketball program was built on transfers when three years ago Charles Penn, Tariq Jones, and Jermaine Jackson Jr. left Mount Clemens to go to Macomb Dakota. The main reason for that move was when Jackson’s father Jermaine Sr. resigned after an investigation surrounding their basketball program. The three transfers were very instrumental in getting the Cougars to the Final Four back in 2015-2016. Jack Ballantyne transferred to Macomb Dakota from Warren De LaSalle last season. Jackson Jr. and Ballantyne are now teammates at Detroit Mercy playing together and Jackson Jr.'s father is an assistant with the team.

The MHSAA does not enforce this rule when it comes to transfers who come for athletic reasons. It waits for the school to come to them when it comes to reporting on transfers. Last season, the league deemed two Clawson players whom transferred to Waterford Mott to be ineligible for the year but changed their mind after getting more information and one of the athlete’s moms changed her story.

Personal Thoughts.

This is going to get uglier before it gets any better here. Now that this case is in court and according to WDIV this case will be in Federal Court in Detroit. This case will set unprecedented circumstances when it comes to future transfers especially if an injunction is granted.

The Kithier family do have a case when it comes to the 14th amendment of the Constitution but it’s hard for me to believe that this was an academic transfer considering the evidence that is out there.

When I look at this case, something is not right here. As mentioned before this case will make a big impact on the future of the MHSAA and future transfers using the court system to get what they want.

I think the MHSAA is very upset that Dylan Alderson admitted that he transferred to Clarkston from Davison for athletic reasons according to Spartan Nation's blog. In their minds especially Rashid that the Kithier move was clearly athletically motivated.

I think the MHSAA needs to change their rules on transfers because so many transfers are getting away with using the academic card or the school that the player is leaving from is not reporting the move and letting them go on their own. If the transfer is there just for academic reasons and they want to play athletics to give themselves an opportunity to play then it is fine I don’t have a problem with that. If the student and parents truly move together, even if they are 18 years old then I don’t have a problem with that at all. If a student that already has a college scholarship and is moving to a different school to be with someone they played with in AAU then I have a problem and that includes the Catholic League schools as well.

If a transfer is there for athletic reasons then they must sit out for 180 days, no questions asked even if they have a Division One Scholarship.

I think it’s time for the MHSAA to get tougher on these transfers and if they don’t then this will certainly continue.

Stay tuned to OAA Now and Inside the OAA for the latest on this situation.

The Lawsuit.
https://drive.google.com/viewerng/viewer?url=https://content-static.detroitnews.com/pdf/2017/kithier2.pdf

Detroit News Article-Kithier Sues MHSAA.
http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/high-school/2017/12/29/thomas-kithier-sues-mhsaa-claims-harassment-ex-coach/109004178/

WDIV Story
https://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/clarkston-student-to-go-to-federal-court-after-being-ruled-ineligible-for-basketball-season

For the Spartan Nation Article here it is.
https://scout.com/college/michigan-state/Article/Is-the-Thomas-Kithier-Ban-From-Playing-High-School-Basketball-This-season-by-the-MHSAA-Righteous-Indignation-or-the-Good-Old-Boy-Network-in-Action-Against-the-Michigan-State-C-112412163

For the Mick McCabe Article here it is.
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/high-school/2017/12/17/michigan-state-basketball-thomas-kithier/956151001/

Top Ten Wrestling, Boys, and Girls Basketball Ranks.

Written Sunday December 17th at 11:00 AM

Here are the top ten Wrestling, Boys, and Girls Basketball ranks in the month of December heading toward Christmas.

Girls

1. Clarkston (3-1): The Wolves pulled off a comeback win against Groves last week but Clarkston has size and athleticism to match up with anyone. Since the loss to Ypsilanti Arbor Prep, the Wolves had three big wins against Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Groves, and Royal Oak. We will know a lot about Clarkston on Friday when Southfield Arts and Tech comes a calling.

2. Groves (3-1): The Falcons have turned things around under coach Jessica Wiesler and have gotten big wins over Orion, Berkley, and Avondale. Groves is athletic, balanced, and experienced. The Falcons have a bright future as well. Groves plays Royal Oak on Tuesday and Seaholm on Thursday to go along with a game on December 28^th against Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. The Falcons looking solid right now.

3. Royal Oak (4-1): The Ravens have had a strong start to their season with probably their best win being against Bloomfield Hills and their only loss was to Clarkston. Royal Oak will have a big one on Tuesday when they host Groves and then close the year with a trip to Rochester. The Ravens right now under coach Brian Sopota have things rolling along.

4. Southfield Arts and Tech (0-4): The Warriors start is mind boggling with all the talent they have on that team. Maybe it’s time to question coach Michelle Marshall on why she booked a tough non conference schedule. Southfield Arts and Tech should get their first win this week when they play Adams.

5. North Farmington (4-0): The Raiders may be unbeaten but they haven’t been battle tested until they played Stoney Creek last week. North Farmington has rode Samantha Cherney whom has had triple doubles on multiple occasions and a defense that likes to steal the ball a ton. Coach Jeff Simpson’s team should be tested on Tuesday when Orion visits and they go to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep whom will likely be without it’s top player Celia Gaynor.

6. Orion (3-2): The Dragons picked up two big wins over Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Seaholm on the road but it came at a price. It will be interesting to see what coach Mike Griffin does with the lineup and it will be challenging for Orion when they have to go to North Farmington on Tuesday and Romeo on Thursday. If there is any team that has been through a lot it is the Dragons. They have seen it all throughout the years.

7. Avondale (2-1): The Yellow Jackets have bounced back from a tough loss to Groves with a blowout of Rochester Lutheran Northwest. Avondale will be tested on Tuesday at Farmington and then they will play Berkley to close out the year. The Yellow Jackets under coach Phil Dawson has turned this thing around.

8. Farmington (3-1): The Falcons may have not had a game last week but the start they have had is still a surprise considering where they were last season. We will know a lot about Farmington when they host Avondale on Tuesday but right now the Falcons are riding high with a ton of confidence under first year coach Laura Guzman.

9. Oxford (3-1): The Wildcats have been winning games ugly including an upset win over Stoney Creek to go along with wins against Adams and Lapeer where they won those games by a combined 14 points. Oxford’s only loss was against River Rouge where they played well in that game. Coach Rachel Bryer has this team headed in the right direction.

10. Stoney Creek (1-4): Wonder if Cougars coach Kellen James has called Paul Finebalm yet??? Stoney Creek is off to a tough start but once they get things figured out the Cougars will be a fine basketball team. They have a tough game on Tuesday with Clarkston before getting a much-needed break before Flat Rock next week. Long term the Cougars are fine.

Boys

1. Clarkston (4-0): The Wolves put two blowouts in order this week against Orion and Sterling Heights Stevenson. Coach Dan Fife has done a good job keeping the off-court situation off from the Thomas Kithier situation off from the team. Clarkston is proving why they are the defending State Champs.

2. Hazel Park (2-0): The Vikings have been rolling against teams with the name “Detroit” on them. Hazel Park went into Detroit University Detroit Jesuit and beat the Cubs. It could be possible that those two teams will rematch at Detroit Renaissance in the districts and they beat a very good Detroit East English team as well. Coach Brendan Barrett has this team that has a ton of senior leadership riding high.

3. West Bloomfield (0-2): The Lakers have played two tough games, one resulted in a buzzer beating loss to Detroit Henry Ford and the other was to Warren De LaSalle. West Bloomfield will have another tough one on Tuesday with River Rouge before resting for 10 days before facing St. Clair on December 29^th. The Lakers and coach Jeremy Dehna are fine right now.

4. Troy (3-0): The Colts had a tough week but got through it with big road wins over Troy Athens and Novi. Troy has to play Ferndale on Tuesday however they will be tested against Canton on December 28^th. It will be interesting to see what coach Gary Fralick has but right now he has his team heading in the right direction despite having internal issues in house.

5. Orion (2-1): The Dragons had a tough loss to Clarkston last week but they should be fine after two big wins two weeks ago against Oxford and Avondale. They have two interesting games this week with Davison at home and Romeo on the road. Orion should be fine going forward.

6. Troy Athens (2-1): The Red Hawks came off a tough loss to their arch rival Troy at home last week will have an opportunity to bounce back against Pontiac Academy of Excellence on Wednesday. Troy Athens is experienced and before the loss to the Colts have beaten Utica Eisenhower and Mount Clemens. It will be interesting for coach Dave Scott, he should win against Pontiac Academy of Excellence but the bigger test awaits when they play Grand Rapids Union on December 27^th.

7. Stoney Creek (0-1): The Cougars couldn’t play Lansing Everett due to the weather but they are still stinging from their upset loss to Rochester two weeks ago. Stoney Creek should win over Utica Ford on Monday but a tougher test awaits on Saturday at Corunna when they play Detroit Loyola. The Cougars have to get other players going if they want to be successful.

8. Farmington (1-0): The Falcons have not played a game in two weeks but they will get back into action when they play a bad Sterling Heights Parkway Christian team at Corunna on Saturday. Farmington will be an interesting team to keep an eye on since their win over Walled Lake Central in overtime. Coach Terrance Porter should have his team ready for this week’s game.

9. Rochester (3-1): Besides a horrible loss to Warren De LaSalle, the Falcons have rode their experience on their way to a strong start with wins over Fraser, Detroit University Prep, along with an upset win over Stoney Creek. Coach Van Kirkwood has this team heading in the right direction.

10. Oak Park (1-1): The Knights have had an interesting week with a win over Detroit Cody but a tough loss to Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Oak Park is showing people why they are one of the favorites in the White this season.

Wrestling

1. Oxford:  The Wildcats won the Oakland County meet but haven’t been impressive outside the County which is a major concern heading into the season and especially in the postseason.

2. Clarkston: The Wolves seem to have turned things around from a second place finish in the Oakland County meet. Clarkston will be a dangerous team this season.

3. Orion: The Dragons have the experience to make a run this upcoming postseason.

4. Southfield Arts and Tech:  The Warriors could be the best team in southern Oakland County this season.

5. Rochester: The Falcons are always well coached under Eric Vernon. Could Rochester make that next step up???

6. Adams: The Highlanders will always be a threat in the inner circle no doubt about that.

7. Stoney Creek: The Cougars are rebuilding a bit but they still get wrestlers to wrestle for them and they are in the wrestling rich city of Rochester as well.

8. Troy: The Colts have a ton of experience back, wonder if they could make that next up???

9. Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have the talent to do very well in the White this season but the question will be is can they sustain it???

10. Seaholm: Could the Maples have a repeat performance from last season when they got to the district finals??? it’s possible.

Updated Basketball Surprises/Concerns.

Written Sunday December 10th at 9:30 PM
Updated Sunday December 17th at 1:10 AM

Well we are in the midst of mid December so here are my surprises and disappointments from Girls and Boys Basketball in the midway point of the month.

Girls

Teams Expected to be where they are at:

Clarkston (3-1): The Wolves have seemed to recover from their disappointing loss to Ypsilanti Arbor Prep with wins over Royal Oak and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep respectably but the biggest one they had was against Groves in which they came back from ten down on their home floor to beat the Falcons. Clarkston will be tested again when they go to Stoney Creek and then host Southfield Arts and Tech this week. The Wolves have seemed to have figure things out and have seemed to have things going in the right direction.

Groves (3-1): The Falcons are off to a nice start and with a ton of talent and experience back, they can become a player not only in the White but also in the district itself. Groves had a tough loss to Clarkston in which they blew a ten point lead but they bounced back to beat Berkley on Friday night. This week they two road games with Royal Oak in an early test and then on Friday against Seaholm. It wouldn’t surprise me if the Falcons win two games this week.

Royal Oak (4-1): The Ravens have been tested when you look at them. Royal Oak lost to Clarkston but have had big wins over Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak Shrine, Berkley, and Walled Lake Northern. The Ravens have a tough schedule as this week they host Groves on Tuesday and go to Rochester on Friday. Royal Oak also has Birmingham Marian on the schedule as well. Things are looking up for coach Brian Sopota’s team.

Biggest Surprise in a good way:

Oxford (3-1): The Wildcats are off to a strong start after upsetting Stoney Creek and survived against Lapeer along with beating Adams but the only loss came against River Rouge, whom is very good. Oxford could give some teams problems this season especially against the White’s top contenders in Groves and Royal Oak. The Wildcats will have two interesting league games setting up with a trip to Troy and a game at Little Caesars Arena against West Bloomfield on Friday.

Farmington (3-1): The Falcons have surprised some people this season by winning two straight games. Farmington beat Milford, St. Catherine of Sienna, and Troy Athens with their only loss being to a good Troy team. The Falcons could do some damage in the Blue but they have a tough game on Tuesday against Avondale and then on Thursday against Oak Park on the road. Farmington under first year coach Laura Guzman has things heading in the right direction.

Avondale (2-1): The Yellow Jackets have bounced back a bit ever since losing to Groves, whom is very good. Avondale beat Rochester Luteran Northwest last week and have seemed to be back in the good graces. The Yellow Jackets play two tough road games this week in Farmington and Berkley. We'll know a lot about Avondale this week.

Biggest Surprises in a bad way:

Adams (0-3): The Highlanders have played a tough non conference schedule thus far with tough losses to Farmington Hills Mercy, Oxford, and Walled Lake Central. Adams is injury riddled right now but they work hard despite question marks. The Highlanders still have to play Utica Eisenhower and Utica later in the season. They play the Eagles on Thursday but they have Southfield Arts and Tech first on Tuesday. It could be a real tough week for Adams.

Berkley (0-5): The Bears have been in a lot of close games but haven’t been able to find those inches. Berkley lost to Troy Athens, Waterford Mott, and Royal Oak Shrine by a combined 28 points but they were blown out by both Royal Oak and Groves by a combined 64 points. The Bears have a very tough stretch coming up with games against Avondale and Oak Park this week. Berkley will have their hands full once again this week.

Bloomfield Hills (1-2): The Blackhawks were supposed to have a down season but they have been very competitive as of late. Bloomfield Hills lost to Royal Oak by one point but bounced back to beat West Bloomfield but they had a tough loss to Waterford Our Lady of the Lakers last week. The Blackhawks will play Chandler Park Academy this week. The schedule will toughen up though with  River Rouge coming to Bloomfield Hills on December 28th. It won’t be easy for coach Jeff Rubin and his team.

Teams that are fine:

Southfield Arts and Tech (0-4): The Warriors are off to a shocking start in the wrong way with losses to very good teams in Walled Lake Western, Flint Carman Ainsworth, River Rouge, and Cleveland Norwood. This might be the first time that I question coach Michelle Marshall when it comes to playing a tough schedule. Southfield Arts and Tech has Adams and Clarkston this week then it's Detroit Renaissance next week. Talk about brutal but expect the Warriors to get their first win this week.

Stoney Creek (1-4): The Cougars inexperience and youth has showed this early season especially against Walled Lake Western and Waterford Kettering but they had another rough week with losses to North Farmington and were upset by Oxford but their only win was against Rochester. Stoney Creek is fine though because they are well coached and well disciplined. The Cougars will be tested with one game this week against Clarkston before getting some much needed rest before playing Flat Rock on December 29th.

Orion (3-2): The Dragons had some success last week but it came at a heavy price as the team lost it's starting point guard to a knee injury. After a solid win against a very good Utica Eisenhower team they had one tough loss to Groves and a really bad loss to Holly but the road has been kind to them as Orion beat Seaholm and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep last week. Orion still has a tough schedule with North Farmington and Romeo coming up this week both on the road. The Dragons mental mindset remains a big concern but if they can play for each other they will be fine.

Teams that has work to do:

Troy (3-2): The Colts have been a Jekyll and Hyde team as of late, winning their first two games over Sterling Heights Stevenson and Farmington but they lost to Waterford Mott by three points and took a really bad loss to Walled Lake Central but bounced back and blew out Cranbrook. Troy’s next two games will be interesting as they will be at home with games against Oxford, and Troy Athens. The Colts do have some issues to fix as we head into the season.

Troy Athens (2-2): The Red Hawks have been competitive as of late, going through two wins against Pontiac Academy of Excellence and Berkley but they took two setbacks losing to Farmington and Romulus. Troy Athens still has some work to do to see any progress. The Red Hawks have a tough schedule coming up with games against Troy on Friday and West Bloomfield on Tuesday. We're starting to get an idea and see what Troy Athens has.

Pontiac (1-1): The Phoenix had been hot and cold as of late, going through a tough loss to Westland John Glenn but bounced back by beating Detroit Community. Pontiac will have one game next week  against Ferndale on Tuesday. The game with the Eagles should be winnable but they have a tough one looming on December 27th when they take on Lansing Eastern. We'll know a lot about the Phoenix when they play that game.

Teams that are unproven:

North Farmington (4-0): The Raiders sit in a nice spot after getting blowout wins over Lakeland, West Bloomfield, and Walled Lake Northern but they had to survive Stoney Creek last week. North Farmington has rode Samantha Cherney whom had four big games. This week the Raiders play Orion on Tuesday at home and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep on the road on Friday. It should be an interesting week for North Farmington.

Hazel Park (2-1): The Vikings have a new coaching staff and they have picked up where they left off from last season, now given that the wins were against Eastpointe and Mount Clemens. Hazel Park did lose to Armada. The Vikings play Hamtramck and Ferndale this week, both of them should be easy victories.

Oak Park (2-1): The Knights hadn't been tested until last week. Despite getting wins over Pontiac Academy of Excellence and Ferndale University they were tested by a solid Dearborn Heights Robachud team. Oak Park lost by three points to the Falcons last week in a very competitive game. The Knights will have a tough schedule this week with home games against Berkley on Tuesday and Farmington on Friday. Also they have Toledo Waite on December 28th. It will be interesting to see what happens with Oak Park but they are competitive.

Teams that are in trouble:

Rochester (0-5): The Falcons are going through a tough transition with coach Al Poynter taking over the team but finding wins on their upcoming schedule will be tricky. Rochester lost to Rochester Hills Lutheran Northwest, Milford, Utica Ford, Stoney Creek, and Avondale. The Falcons have a chance to get their first win of the season when they host Seaholm on Tuesday and on Thursday host Royal Oak but Rochester right now is not in a good spot.

West Bloomfield (0-3): The Lakers have had some rough luck as of late losing to Bloomfield Hills, North Farmington, and Howell. The non conference schedule will get tough for West Bloomfield this week with as they will be on the road with a back to back against Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes on Tuesday and then opening league play against Troy Athens on Wednesday and then a trip to Detroit to play Oxford on Friday. It won’t be easy for coach Bert Mosley and his team.

Seaholm (0-4): The Maples have been struggling lately not scoring 30 points in each of those games but their defense has improved recently. Seaholm has a really tough schedule coming up when they get into league play this week with a trip to Rochester on Tuesday and a home test with Groves on Thursday. This week will tell a lot where the Maples are at right now.

Boys

Teams Expected to be where they are at:

Clarkston (4-0): With all the distractions surrounding regarding the Thomas Kitchier situation the Wolves got two wins against State ranked teams in Flint Carman Ainsworth and Wayne Memorial to go along with blowout wins over Orion and Sterling Heights Stevenson. Clarkston will play Orchard Lake St. Marys on Thursday, which is their only game this week. It will be an interesting test for the Wolves.

Hazel Park (2-0): The Vikings made a statement against Detroit East English Village Prep two weeks ago and they made yet another statement when they went into Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit and beat the Cubs. Hazel Park will be tested with a back to back on Friday against Detroit Loyola at Corunna and Saturday against Detroit Public Safety Academy at Southfield Arts and Tech, along with December 27th when they play Detroit Henry Ford. It will be an interesting week for the Vikings.

Troy (3-0): The Colts are off to a nice start with big wins over Troy Athens, Novi, and Avondale.  Troy has had to deal with internal issues off the court but on the court they are as deep as anyone. This week the Colts host Ferndale on Tuesday and then they won't play again until December 28th when they play Canton. Troy wants to get back to having a deep playoff run and right now they are off to a good start.

Biggest Surprises in a good way:

Orion (2-1): The Dragons are half way to their win total from all of last season with home wins over Avondale and Oxford but they ran into the buzzsaw known as Clarkston. Orion is far from a finished product though and will be tested this week at home with Davison on Tuesday and on Thursday at Romeo. The Dragons right now are in a good spot.

Avondale (2-2): The Yellow Jackets did not have a good week with two losses to Orion and Troy two weeks ago but Avondale will be fine heading into league play because of good coaching and the talent they have even though it is young talent, they are still very athletic. The young guys will get better for the Yellow Jackets and they made a big statement with big wins over Detroit University Prep and Waterford Mott by one point. This week Avondale plays Rochester at Rochester College on Tuesday and goes to Detroit Cass Tech to play Detroit Fredrick Douglass. It won’t be easy but they will be fine going forward

Farmington (1-0): The Falcons are off to a solid start after getting a big overtime win over Walled Lake Central. Farmington is far from a finished product though but they will have over two weeks of rest with their next game not being until Saturday when they play Sterling Heights Parkway Christian at Corunna. It will be interesting to see where the Falcons are at for a while.

Biggest Surprises in a bad way:

North Farmington (1-1): The Raiders are not the same team as they were last season and they really laid an egg at home against Ypsilanti despite beating Detroit University Prep Science and Math. North Farmington has concerns everywhere despite playing Roseville on Tuesday on the road and Cincinnati Withrow on December 27th. The Raiders have a tough schedule as well the rest of the way.

Southfield Arts and Tech (0-3): The Warriors did not look good against Southfield Christian, River Rouge, or Detroit Mumford but they were a very young team. Southfield Arts and Tech won't have another game until December 27th when they play Macomb L'Anse Creuse. It could be a long season for the Warriors.

Rochester (3-1): The Falcons under new coach Vance Kirkwood sent shockwaves through Rochester when they beat Stoney Creek on Friday night. Rochester also got an opening night win over Detroit University Prep two weeks ago but they were blown out by Warren De LaSalle even though they bounced back and beat Fraser. The Falcons have to play Avondale on Tuesday at Rochester College to close out the year. It will be interesting to see what happens with Rochester.

Teams that are fine:

Oxford (1-2): The Wildcats have had a tough two games to start their season with tough losses to Orion and Romeo but Oxford has improved from game to game and sent a statement with a blowout win over a good Lapeer team last week. Oxford will play Richmond at Imlay City this week to close out the year. The Wildcats are just fine where they are at.

Ferndale (1-2): The Eagles showed strong resilience when they went into Birmingham and came back to beat Birmingham Brother Rice two weeks ago but last week Ferndale had a setback with losses to Ecorse and Walled Lake Northern. The Eagles will have an interesting week with a trip to Troy on Tuesday. Ferndale is fine right now.

West Bloomfield (0-2): The Lakers have been very competitive as of late with two tough losses to Warren De LaSalle and Detroit Henry Ford. Both of West Bloomfield's losses have came by a combined 12 points. The Lakers this week play River Rouge on Tuesday and then won't play until December 29th when they play St. Clair. West Bloomfield is fine right now, don't press the panic button on these guys.

Teams that have work to do:

Pontiac (0-3): The Phoenix have had a tough few weeks losing heartbreakers to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Waterford Mott, and Detroit Community. Pontiac will have one game this week when they host  host Southfield Christian on Monday. The schedule also gets tough as the Phoenix are in the Plymouth Salem Tournament against Redford Thurston on December 28th and possibly Plymouth Salem on December 29th. It could be very interesting for Pontiac to see where they are at.

Stoney Creek (0-1): The Cougars found out that you just can’t rely on Nate Davis to carry you in their loss to Rochester. Stoney Creek needs to get others involved besides Davis. The Cougars should be fine in the long run but they need to get help for Davis and they have the talent to do it. Stoney Creek has two road games starting with Utica Ford on Monday and Detroit Loyola at Corunna on Friday. These could be the two games that get the Cougars back on track.

Oak Park (1-1): The Knights have seemed to have turned things around with a win over Detroit Cody but they are still stinging from their loss to Birmingham Detroit Country Day from last week. Oak Park will not play another game until 2018 but they still have some work to do until then.

Teams that are unproven:

Berkley (3-0): The Bears have been rolling as of late but the teams they have played haven’t been the greatest with wins over Eastpointe, Madison, and Clawson. Berkley hosts Ferndale University on Tuesday and Center Line on Thursday. The Bears should be unbeaten heading into their game on December 29^th with Madison Heights Bishop Foley. Berkley right now off to a nice start.

Adams (2-0): The Highlanders fresh off going 0-21 last season have won two straight games over interesting competition in Utica and Waterford Kettering, both teams played tough on Friday with Utica beating Utica Eisenhower while Waterford Kettering lost to Waterford Mott. Adams will host Brandon on Thursday. The Highlanders are looking for wins and they are on the right path getting there.

Troy Athens (2-1): The Red Hawks are off to a good start and they have a ton of experience to back them up as well. Troy Athens got wins over Mount Clemens and Utica Eisenhower but they took a setback against their arch rivals from Troy last week. This week the Red Hawks will play Pontiac Academy of Excellence on Wednesday and then they will play Grand Rapids Union on December 27th and Okemos on December 29th. We'll know a lot about Troy Athens for sure after those two games.

Teams that are in trouble:

Seaholm (2-2): The Maples to their defense have been injury riddled as of late and it has shown with losses to Novi Detroit Catholic Central and Birmingham Brother Rice. Last week, Seaholm got two big victories as they beat Clawson and needed a buzzer beater to beat Harrison. The Maples will close out the year on Tuesday when they host Bloomfield Hills. It will be an interesting matchup for Seaholm.

Harrison (0-3): The Hawks have really struggled defending including getting blown out by Milford on the road. Harrison has some issues right now and they have a new staff with Jarell Hogan taking over the program. The Hawks lost two one point games to Detroit Osborn and Seaholm, both on buzzer beaters. Harrison heads into 2018 with some motivation to get their first win of the season.

Bloomfield Hills (1-2): The Blackhawks got a big win over Plymouth Christian two weeks but last week didn't go so well for Bloomfield Hills with losses to Detroit Cass Tech and Groves. The schedule won't be easy for the Blackhawks this week as they are at Seaholm on Tuesday and host Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. They play Detroit Western on December 26th. Besides the Red schedule Bloomfield Hills has to play Saline as well. It won’t be easy for the Bloomfield Hills.

Kithier ruled ineligible but could their be a legal case???

Written Thursday December 7th at 7:00 PM
Updated Monday December 25th at 9:00 PM

Clarkston took a hit that many expected.

The MHSAA declared that Thomas Kithier was ruled ineligible for the whole Boys Basketball season because Kithier’s former school Macomb Dakota did not sign the wavier and the move was deemed for athletic reasons.

Clarkston according to the Detroit News appealed the suspension of Kithier, it was originally said to be that he would be eligible in January after Martin Luther King Day but when the MHSAA five person executive committee met last week, they extended Kithier's suspension from 90 days to 180 days.

The MHSAA stated that the move was athletically motivated and thus sent a statement according to the Detroit Free Press describing the definition of the rule. The league's rulebook in section nine and point seven states that "The student seeks to participate with teammates he or she participated in non school competition during the preceding 12 months. An ineligible transfer or student who is confirmed to have transferred for athletic reasons is ineligible for 180 scheduled school days to participate in interscholastic contest for the school in which they transferred. Even if the student's circumstances subsequently satisfy one of the exceptions in section nine that would normally would allow a transfer student immediate eligibility, the student shall remain ineligible for 180 scheduled school days at this or any other MHSAA member school."

Kithier is going to play College Basketball at Michigan State but the family and Clarkston is not too happy with Macomb Dakota and the MHSAA for good reason.

The Kithier family sent out a statement to the Detroit News saying that “Our move to Clarkston was a private family decision and one we did not take lightly. We watched our son’s school environment grew increasingly intolerable for him over two years and we knew staying at Macomb Dakota High School was not in his best interest. We researched several Michigan schools and found Clarkston’s outstanding culture and academic curriculum to be a great fit for Thomas's future needs and future goals. Thomas is striving socially and academically at Clarkston High School but as a lifelong student athlete, he is heartbroken to be denied the opportunity to participate in sports. We followed the rules and our one and only motivation for transferring to Clarkston was to surround our son with a supportive community that sees him as a multifaceted human being and not a commodity.”

The Clarkston Administration was furious and disappointed to see the ruling handed down. They filed a direct appeal to the MHSAA Representative Council on this situation but they will not meet until the spring. “As superintendent, I will not tolerate injustice, prejudice, or arbitrary limiting students. We will not impose adult decision that hampers long term achievements upon them. We will stand up for every student in every case. Just as we expect our Wolves to fight until the final whistle at the playing field, in the arena, in the classroom, and battling life’s obstacles. We will fight for Thomas Kithier, he’s our kid” said Clarkston superintendent Rod Rock.

Clarkston principal Gary Kahl was not happy with Macomb Dakota on how they handled the Kithier situation. “The Kithier family made an educated and thoughtful decision to move to the Clarkston School District because it provides academic opportunities and a inclusive supporting environment they felt was necessary for Thomas to grow as a student and a person. These are opportunities we embrace for all students are the core of who we are, and guide our principles. Thomas and his family found themselves in an academic situation that he could not benefit from a toxic cultural environment that was untenable and unhealthy. By blocking this transfer (Macomb) Dakota administration demonstrated that they do not have Thomas best interest in mind.”

Clarkston Athletic Director Jeff Kosin said during a press conference that they did follow the rules but the MHSAA said otherwise. "We followed the rules to the letter of the law, we were in contact with the State the whole way, everything was yes, yes, yes, and when they found out it was Thomas Kithier and within seconds the conversation changed very drastically." Kosin during his conversation with the MHSAA's executive assistant Tom Rashid said that once the conversation changed "Wait what are you doing here??? if Dakota had any (expletive) then they wouldn't sign the paperwork" Kosin recalled during the press conference the conversation he had with Rashid.

Wolves coach Dan Fife has been put on the defensive to defend his program and integrity of it’s program. He said in a press release that “During my coaching career (35 years), there has been many times where families move to Clarkston and their sons played on my teams. My only concern is that the families follow the rules set by the MHSAA. That is what occurred in this case, and yet I find myself in a position of having to defend the integrity of my player, the Clarkston Basketball program, and myself as a coach. The MHSAA does not have a handle on these transfers and they are making an example of Thomas.”

Fife's frustration showed in the process during the press conference surrounding the Kithier situation. "I feel there are two sets of rules here. I don't know how the State and Dakota can look in the mirror at themselves right now."

Kosin on MLive addressed the lack of credibility with the MHSAA regarding the transfers the league disregard which is true to full extent including what happened with Macomb Dakota when they got Jermaine Jackson from Mount Clemens and Jack Ballantyne from Warren DeLaSalle, both of them played last season for the Cougars and are now at Detroit."Dakota had not in the last year but in years past received several transfers that they got both academically and athletically. It was brought to our attention that until a school attests or contests or challenges the MHSAA, they are not an investigative body and will not look into those allegations until it is brought to their attention. We kind of thought that they knew what was going on. They admitted that they knew what was going on. They knew in years past, all of the transfers that keep coming across the State of Michigan, not just us, not just Dakota."

Macomb Dakota, which is in the Chippewa Valley School District sent out a statement through it's school district. "As the largest comprehensive school in the State, Dakota High School offers an outstanding educational program to more than 3,000 students each day. Our award winning high school programs are well known for being among the best in the State. Our students and staff continually win awards for excellence in academics, fine arts, and athletics at the county, State, and national level. As a member of the MHSAA, Dakota High School is required to follow rules ensuring that every player meets the eligibility requirements set by the MHSAA."

The Chippewa Valley School District mentioned in their statement that they were disappointed and laid out an interesting detail surrounding the Kithier move to Clarkston. "We are disheartened by the disparaging remarks being made against Chippewa Valley Schools in Clarkston media releases. While we understand Clarkston's disappointment with the MHSAA ruling, we feel that their negative characterization of Dakota High School is unwarranted and unnecessary. Thomas Kithier began his career in the Chippewa Valley Schools as a kindergarten student and in over the years has participated in many of the award winning programs and extracurricular activities we have to offer. He is an outstanding athlete and an excellent student. We wish him the best in his future endeavors."

The story has somewhat of an odd twist. There are a few reports that state after Kithier left Macomb Dakota and enrolled at Clarkston, he rented an apartment in the district on his own and the family moved in shortly.

According to the Detroit News there have reports that Kithier's parents stayed in Macomb to deal with a family matter. The Kithier's have said that their home in Macomb is now for sale.

The MHSAA sent out a statement explaining the situation in their own terms "An Educational Transfer Form is required for transfers that meet three exceptions. One, change of residence by a student between the homes of divorced parents or parents that never married. Second, change of residence by an 18 year old who moves without his or her parents. Third, change of residence to a boarding school." The form also requires both principals to sign off on it, and because Macomb Dakota believed the move was for athletic reasons, they did not sign off on it.

The MHSAA also said that Macomb Dakota made an formal allegation that the move was for athletic reasons. Clarkston responded to the allegation but the  MHSAA Executive Committee ruled that Macomb Dakota was correct on the matter.

The Clarkston community has been very supportive of Kithier. On Thursday in the Wolves game with Flint Carman Ainsworth which resulted in a 72-67 win, the Jungle (Clarkston's student section) made signs to let Kithier play with the "Let Him Play" and have voiced their displeasure with the MHSAA on Twitter.

On Monday, the Kithier family according to the Detroit News attended the Chippewa Valley Board Of Education Meeting trying to persuade them to reconsider their decision and let Kithier play at Clarkston. "I want everyone to understand that this is an academic transfer and I'm insulted that Chippewa Valley thinks otherwise" said Kithier's mom Jane.

The reason why for the transfer that Jane Kithier said was because Macomb Dakota didn't have a media production course that her son wanted (Kithier's major would be communication with sports journalism) as Clarkston did. She also bashed Macomb Dakota on not letting her son play. "Dakota has let other students transfer and they let several football players go, so why aren't they letting Thomas play?"

Chippewa Valley Superintendent Ron Roberts opened with a statement in the case regarding the transfer. "This summer we were asked to sign a transfer agreement for Thomas to go to Clarkston High School. There was a lot of proof that made it clear to us that the transfer is what the MHSAA considers to be athletically motivated. The transfer agreement from the MHSAA requested our administrators to sign a document and attest to statements that our administration believed were not true. We discussed the issue and agreed that signing off on the document would put us in unenviable and unacceptable position of lying to the MHSAA. We made the MHSAA aware of our reason for not signing the document and let them know of our concerns. It appeared clear to us that the circumstances behind the transfer were a direct violation of MHSAA rules. That is where Chippewa Valley's involvement ended."

Chippewa Valley schools were not considering reversing it's decision.

Clarkston's school board condemned the decision and passed a resolution calling for the reinstatement of Kithier's eligibility.

Michigan State where Kithier will be attending next season made some statements regarding the situation. "I am not crazy about the ruling that I've heard. I think we're arachiac in our thinking on this. I think one way or the other this is going to bring some changes to how we look at it from the Michigan High School Athletic Association. To me, a very sad situation because I hate when a senior does not get a chance to go to prom and play basketball or do this or that, that's why I'm against some of these things and all these kids leaving. I'm not even in favor of the football rule where they come at the semester, personally because I think you're missing out on a lot of things and I think we have to find a way to do a better job with the rules to make so there are rules but there are also adjustments to the rules that will take place in the future" said Kithier's future coach Tom Izzo.

Izzo made mention that he was partly to blame for what happened to Kithier. "I think he was going to a prep school. I'm not as crazy about that. I hate when the kids from the State of Michigan are all leaving because of my love for the State. I hope it doesn't cost him but I don't know enough about all of it because I didn't think it would come to this."

Izzo also defended Fife as well through all of this. "Dan Fife had zero- ZERO- to do with this, and early on, his name was getting dragged through like he's a recruit??? Zero, Zero."

Thoughts.

Is this case over??? Probably Not.

Why???

Because there are legal issues here, the Kithier family and the Clarkston Administration could sue the MHSAA and Macomb Dakota in Ingham County Circuit Court Lansing if they go that route.

And it appears they just did that.

On Friday the Kithier family according to Scott Burnstein of State Champs filed a lawsuit against the MHSAA and Macomb Dakota. According to Satellite Sports the family has hired two well known attorneys in Steve Fishman and Ven Johnson.

"Dakota's gross misconduct has threaten Thomas ability to attend Clarkston High, the school of his choice simply because they would be losing their start basketball player. A high school senior and legal adult should be allowed to attend anywhere he or she wants. Whether that includes basketball, volleyball, being a member of the marching band or of the drama club is completely irrelevant" said Johnson. "If the MHSAA's arbitrarily and capricious decision is allowed to stand Thomas would be irreparably harmed. Ven Johnson and I are investigating every legal option available to Thomas and his family and will be moving forward immediately. This young man deserves all the fruits of his hard work and dedication" said Fishman.

WDIV TV in Detroit reported that the case will be handled in Detroit Federal Court and not in Ingham County Circuit Court. The Kitchier family and attorneys believes that the case against the MHSAA and Macomb Dakota was unconstitutional and saying that his rights were violated.

Fife is exactly right on the MHSAA. The MHSAA has lost control on the transfer situation. It has allowed a culture in which kids and families can come in to other districts unchecked and allow kids to play right away if they move into district. We are seeing a lot more kids transfer into schools primarily for athletic reasons.

When it comes to the MHSAA and the transfer situation they have been truly inconsistent with this policy. It is no secret that families often use the loophole to move their kids into district where they can play immediately. There are cases where it is athletically motivated but the MHSAA ignores the rule and allows them to play and there are kids who do go for academic reasons.

It is no secret that Clarkston is a very good academic school, they are one of the best in Oakland County. They are also Open Enrollment. The MHSAA needs to truly be specific in regards to transfers.

What we have learned is that in the case of a transfer the other team’s Athletic Director or someone in the Administration has to sign off on allowing the student to transfer to another district and play High School Athletics in that district. Most times it is granted. In this case it was not granted.

It is no secret that the Kithier family and the Macomb Dakota Administration have had some issues in the past both academically and athletically. There had been some tension for some time between the two parties. This tension influenced the Kithier family to look at other options and concluded that Clarkston would be the best fit for their son.

There has been some perception that Kithier was transferring to Clarkston primarily to play his Senior year alongside his future Michigan State teammate Foster Loyer and that caused some red flags with Macomb Dakota who had been eliminated two of the last three years by the Wolves.

Clarkston is the defending State Champs in Class A whom do return two other future Big Ten players in Loyer and Wisconsin commit Taylor Currie and not to mention future Division One recruit in CJ Robinson. The Wolves also have Tristen Mysen, Chase Wasilk, Nick Wells, among others. Mysen transferred from Oxford, Hank Schimmel transferred to Clarkston from Maryland. It sounds like each of the Athletic Directors signed off on the request.

You have to wonder if Kithier had went to a Prep School or any other school who was not a strong basketball power, would this have happened??? The Kithier family has said they moved to Clarkston for academic reasons but that perception and the issues were what triggered Macomb Dakota and coach Paul Tocco to complain to the MHSAA that the move was athletically motivated.

It will be interesting to see what happens going forward, will Kithier ever be allowed to play for Clarkston??? Rock said that he believes that we will see Kithier in a Wolves uniform this season "I expect Thomas Kithier to be playing basketball for Clarkston by January 15th."

January 15th is the start of the second semester.

We'll find out.

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

WDIV Story.
https://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/clarkston-student-to-go-to-federal-court-after-being-ruled-ineligible-for-basketball-season

Satellite Sports.

https://statelinesportsnetwork.net/2017/12/15/clarkstons-thomas-kithier-will-take-mhsaa-and-dakota-high-school-to-court-to-regain-eligibility/

Izzo Statements.
http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2017/12/11/mhsaa-recruit-ruling-riles-izzo/108527344/

Third Detroit News Story
http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2017/12/11/kithier-family-pleads-case-school-board/108528356/

MLive Story
http://www.mlive.com/sports/detroit/2017/12/clarkston_still_fighting_while.html

Detroit News Story Part Two.
http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/high-school/2017/12/08/clarkston-official-details-sticking-point-thomas-kithier-case/108444074/

The Oakland Press Article
http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20171208/clarkston-vows-to-fight-on-behalf-of-thomas-kithier

For the Detroit Free Press Article
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/high-school/2017/12/07/msu-hoops-commit-thomas-kithier-ineligible/933023001/

For the Detroit News Article it can be found right here.

http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/high-school/2017/12/07/mhsaa-rules-clarkstons-thomas-kithier-ineligible/108410930/

Boys Basketball Preview.

Written Friday December 1st at 2:05 PM

Here are my early projections and insights surrounding the upcoming Boys Basketball season. Enjoy everyone.

INSIDE THE OAA TOP 10

1. Clarkston

2. West Bloomfield

3. Hazel Park

4. Oak Park

5. Troy

6. Stoney Creek

7. Pontiac

8. Orion

9. Rochester

10. Oxford

Red

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting division that has three teams that made deep runs in the playoffs last season and two teams that have been to the State Finals in the last five years. Hazel Park and Troy comes up from the White. The favorite has to be Clarkston with being the defending State Champions and the likely favorite to repeat because of whom they return. West Bloomfield whom made the Final Four last season got stronger with the addition of several transfers that came there that could contend. Troy was a State Quarterfinalist returns the balk of their team back. Hazel Park also has a ton of talent back. North Farmington will have to reload a bit. Southfield Arts and Tech will be young. Bloomfield Hills could struggle here in this division. Interesting league to say the least.

DREAM SCHEDULE: Troy: The Colts have a friendly non conference schedule this season. Now it does include a tough test against Novi but Troy has Troy Athens, Avondale, Canton, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, and Ferndale, in which those games are tough but competitive, and winnable. The Colts have a tough league schedule as mentioned but with the talent this team returns why not Troy here, they could win double digit games this season.

NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Clarkston: Who would want to play Clarkston with the team they have back???, not to mention that they are the defending State Champions. The league will be interesting for the Wolves but the non conference will be a challenge. Coach Dan Fife’s team will have to play Wayne Memorial, Flint Carman Ainsworth, Detroit East English Village Prep, Detroit Pershing, Ann Arbor Skyline, Romulus, and Orchard Lake St. Marys. Talk about a brutal non league schedule but Clarkston deserves it.

TEAM THAT HAS A LOT TO PROVE: Hazel Park: The Vikings got their wish, they are in the Red and Senior Heavy but do they belong in this division is the question. Hazel Park plays a tough non conference schedule with games against a ton of Detroit schools including Detroit Henry Ford, Detroit East English Village Prep, Detroit Pershing, and Loyola. That’s not mentioning their Southfield Arts and Tech classic game, Toledo Scott, Benton Harbor, or Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit. This is a brutal schedule for the Vikings, got to wonder if they are ready for it.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are in the Red and have a new coach in Phil Kurajian but the schedule is brutal with not only the league but non conference as well with Groves, Seaholm, Detroit Western, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. That’s not mentioning their home opener against Plymouth Christian. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Detroit Cass Tech, and Saline is also on the schedule. It could be a long season for Bloomfield Hills this season.

CLARKSTON WOLVES

Last Season: 27-1, 9-1 Red. State Champions.

Strengths: Experience.

Weakness: Heavy expectations.

The Wolves are the defending Division One State Champs from a season ago and is one of the best High School teams in the Country. Clarkston is led by Head Coach Dan Fife and by Point Guard Foster Loyer, who has committed to Michigan State and is one of the best guards in the nation. CJ Robinson also is a very good guard and compliments Loyer with his guard making ability. Taylor Currie is the Wolves best big man committing to Wisconsin adding an outside game to his inside abilities. Clarkston added two more transfers from the mix in the offseason. Gone is Dylan Alderson whom is now at Toledo but the Wolves added Thomas Kithier whom transferred from Macomb Dakota and Hank Schemmel from Maryland. Kithier is committed to Michigan State. Nick Wells will be the other starter for the Wolves. The Wolves feature a deep bench with Tristen Mysen, Schemmel, Chase Wasilk, Mike Nicholson, Tieler Houston, and Desmond Mills-Bradley. Clarkston really has no clear weakness but if there is one weakness they have it could be the heavy expectations. Nothing less than a state championship could mean a failed season.

WEST BLOOMFIELD LAKERS

Last Season: 17-9, 6-4 Red.

Strengths: Quickness, Backcourt.

Weakness: Post/chemistry

The Lakers went to the Final Four last season before bowing out to Clarkston. West Bloomfield Head Coach Jeremy Dehna looks to continue to build off last year’s success. The Lakers lost Kevin McAdoo who is now at Eastern Michigan but they will be guard heavy led by Tre Harvey. Harvey was McAdoo’s backcourt mate last season. West Bloomfield will also benefit from several transfers coming into the program, all four of them are also guards. The first transfer is Donovan Moore, Moore transferred back to Michigan from Illinois and has family ties to West Bloomfield. Another transfer that came into the program is Jalen Kelso. Kelso played two seasons at Pontiac and last season he was at Walled Lake Northern. The other two transfers that are on the team is Robert Johnson and AJ Abbott, both of them came from Northville. The two big concerns for West Bloomfield will be in the post where they will have to rely on Chris Oviasu, Zach Isenberg, and football standout James Falkner to address that area. Falkner and Abbott played on the West Bloomfield football team this season. The other concern will be chemistry, with so many transfers coming in, building chemistry will always be challenging.  If the Lakers can address that and use with within their four guard, one big offense then West Bloomfield could very well do something this season.

TROY COLTS

Last Season: 21-5, 8-2 White.

Strengths: Experience.

Weakness: Unproven depth.

The Colts fresh off making the State Quarterfinal last season return the bulk of that team that fell to West Bloomfield. Troy will be led by forwards Jason Dietz and Danny Sully along with guard Leon Ayers. The Colts under coach Gary Fralik are big as well with height and size. Brody Parker is expected to play a big role in his freshman season. Parker is the son of Troy assistant Gary Parker. The Colts are well known for their scrappiness but if there is one weakness on this team it looks like it will be unproven depth. Troy will be deep and they have a very solid program but the question is can some of those kids who performed well at the JV level perform well at the varsity level. The Colts lost some talent from last season but they are well coached and being in the Red will help their cause.

HAZEL PARK VIKINGS

Last Season: 15-8, 8-2 White.

Strengths: Experience.

Weakness: Depth.

The Vikings process to the Red is now complete and they bring along a ton of experience led by their big three of Carl Bow, David Hearns, and Devin Pettus. Hazel Park coach Brendan Barrett will have high expectations as he should with his team this season. Barrett will also have Kyle Washington, Khari Adams, and Ju Jones return as well. With all the senior talent, they could make the jump up in the standings. Depth however, will be a major concern surrounding this team besides the six seniors. They like to play physical so it will be important for the Vikings to stay out of foul trouble. Hazel Park also made a jump from Class B to Class A which means they are in a very tough district. They do have a tough non league schedule which should help.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH WARRIORS

Last Season: 11-10, 6-4 Red.

Strengths: Leadership.

Weakness:Youth and Inexperience

The Warriors will be a team to keep an eye on for coach Mike Avery whom is in his second year as Southfield Arts and Tech head coach. The Warriors will have a ton of leadership returning led by John Darby, Terrell Humes, and Cameron McEvans. The question for Southfield Arts and Tech will be is how will the rest of the roster play out and besides McEvans, Humes, and Darby whom will be expected to provide that scoring option now that Michael Flowers and Remi Torbert have graduated from the program. The Warriors will be very young this season featuring Darby as it's lone senior, 10 juniors including McEvans and Humes and three sophomores.

NORTH FARMINGTON RAIDERS

Last Season: 11-9, 7-3 Red.

Strengths: Coaching.

Weakness: Experience/talent.

The Raiders will always be in the hunt but this season they will be replacing a lot of scoring after Armani Hardy went out west to UNLV along with Karl Patrick. North Farmington returns Justus Salaam who had a pretty good Freshman campaign while adding freshmen Deon Hayes to their roster. The Raiders also fielded a strong JV squad as well. A major strength for the Raiders is their coaching staff led by Todd Negoshian. He has won league championships and has been to the state championship. If anyone can handle this type of challenge, it is Coach Negoshian.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS BLACKHAWKS

Last Season: 10-10, 2-8 Red.

Strengths: Depth/hard workers.

Weakness: Competing in the Red.

The Blackhawks had some program issues last season which led to a coaching change. Phil Kurajian takes over for Mike Maryanski. Bloomfield Hills will have some hard workers and depth led by Guards Tyler Canfield, Dean Hyusay, Jay Reedemer, along with Forwards Brent Bosart, Grant Ellis, and Joe Hecker returning. Reedemer and David Werthmeir are recovering from injuries while Guards Ben Mutz, Robert Goldsberry, and Collin Hecker will provide depth for the Blackhawks. The question is can Bloomfield Hills compete in the Red? This is their second year in the division but they were only 2-8 in league play. If Bloomfield Hills can prove to compete in the Red, it will prepare them for Districts and good things will happen in Blackhawk country.

White

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting division which features a team that went to the Regional Final and a team that went winless last season. There are several teams that come up from the Blue and one that came down from the Red. The favorite has to be Oak Park with the talent they do return to the fold. Stoney Creek might have other plans, they were a Regional finalist last season and return the majority of their players. Adams went winless last season and will hope moving down to the White will help their fortunes. Oxford will be a team to watch as they have some talent. Avondale is junior heavy this season. Seaholm is very scrappy and veteran heavy for a team that struggled last season. Troy Athens has a ton of experience coming back. Groves will be young but they are well coached. This will be an interesting division to keep an eye on.

DREAM SCHEDULE: Stoney Creek: The Cougars non conference is not the greatest for a team that went to the Regional Final last season. Stoney Creek should be favored against Rochester, Lansing Everett, Walled Lake Northern, Detroit Loyola, Macomb Lutheran North, and Utica Ford. The Cougars should be a team to keep an eye on this season.

NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Seaholm: The Maples have a tough non conference schedule with games against Novi Detroit Catholic Central, Birmingham Brother Rice, and Clawson. Harrison and Bloomfield Hills are tricky non league games. The league schedule will be a challenge for Seaholm as well but the first three games will determine how the Maples will do this season.

TEAM THAT HAS A LOT TO PROVE: Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have a Senior heavy team this season and a favorable non conference schedule. They open up with Utica Eisenhower which should be improved this season along with their rivalry game with Troy and Okemos is a strong team as well. But they also have winnable games on their schedule as well. Troy Athens will be a team to keep an eye on this season.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Avondale: The Yellow Jackets are a very young team this season but the schedule will be tough for coach Tim Morton’s team with games against Orion, Troy, Waterford Mott, Detroit Douglass, Detroit University Prep, and Rochester. That won’t be an easy non league slate for Avondale and that’s not mentioning league play. The Yellow Jackets could be in line for a long season this year.

OAK PARK KNIGHTS

Last Season: 15-7, 7-3 White.

Strengths: Experience.

Weakness: Mental Mindset and Size.

The Knights led by second year Head Coach Bobby Thompson could have the tools to contend for a league championship. The Knights return a lot of experience from a team who won 15 games. Malik Carr, Dwan Mathis, and Bobby Thompson Jr. return for the Knights looking to make a strong run in both the league race and the district race. Oak Park also fielded a strong JV team last year led by former Oak Park Varsity Coach Al Katoola. Like last year, Oak Park will play a very challenging non-conference schedule. The question will be, is the Knights ready for it.

STONEY CREEK COUGARS

Last Season: 19-6, 7-3 Blue.

Strengths: Experience, hard working team.

Weakness: Other players contributing.

After a very solid run into the Regional Final last year, Stoney Creek returns their three top players. Guard, Nate Davis, their best player averages 20 points a game and is a very relentless competitor who should be getting college looks this season. The Cougars also field a solid post player and Mr. Soccer, Mike Melarangi, and a combo guard/forward in Jericho Barr-Redmond. Cougars coach Steve Norgrove will get consistent production from those three players but it will need contributions from his other players. Stoney Creek will be able to get a lot of wins with their non conference schedule not exactly that impressive but when looking at the players they return. The Cougars will be in the mix for not only a league title but once again a district title and maybe more.

OXFORD WILDCATS

Last Season: 17-4, 7-3 Blue.

Strengths: Strong contributors.

Weakness: Replacing ten players.

The Wildcats are in a unique spot. They lost ten players to graduation including arguably three of their better scorers and leaders in Jordan Jaden, Jeam LaVaris, and Ray LeVine but Head Coach Steve Laidlaw will have some talent coming up and returning as well. Oxford will be led by three point sharpshooter Nolan Harding and Forward Michael Raisch. Expect guards Jimmy Claudio, Grant Kornberger, and Forward Lawrence Townsend to all contribute as well. Obviously, experience will be a challenge early for this group but if they can get it together, the Wildcats could make some noise in the league race.

ADAMS HIGHLANDERS

Last Season: 0-21, 0-10 Red.

Strengths: Post, Coaching.

Weakness: Confidence.

Last season was a season Coach Brad Crighton would want to forget. Despite being in the Red, the Highlanders finished 0-21. Now in the White, Adams looks to rebound and return to being a strong program again. They return center Austin Ursuay who was the team’s best player a year ago. Besides Ursuay, Adams returns Guards Jack Jenkins, Zach Maynard, Forward Jake Schuler, and John Gurraj will back up Ursuay at Center. Brody Prieskorn transfers from Orchard Lake St. Marys and could give them a spark at Power Forward. Adams will be a team to watch this upcoming season.

TROY ATHENS RED HAWKS

Last Season: 9-13, 3-7 White.

Strengths: Experience/drive

Weakness: Not as challenging out of conference schedule

From an inexperienced group who improved a lot from two years ago when the Red Hawks struggled in the Red. Athens last year improved with nine wins and three wins in the White. The Red Hawks under Head Coach Dave Scott will be a senior heavy group led by their best player Guard/Forward Taylor McCaskill. What helps the Red Hawks is that they are battled tested, in the last two years, Athens has played one of the most difficult schedules in the state and has continued to improve since heading back to the White last year. Athens will look to continue to improve and contend for a league title.

GROVES FALCONS

Last Season: 13-8, 8-2 Blue.

Strengths: Program.

Weakness: Lack of Varsity Experience.

The Falcons led by Head Coach Mark West won some quality games and won the Blue Division a year ago but they lost seven players to graduation including Guard Marcus Pittman and Forward Drew Scheckel each of whom contributed strongly for the Falcons. Replacing that talent will be a big challenge for Groves. Their JV program however, was very strong but the question will be how will they do at the Varsity level. Groves will be very young this season and will rely on their upperclassmen early on. If their underclassmen can contribute alongside the upperclassmen, it will put the Falcons in a position to contend in the league race.

AVONDALE YELLOW JACKETS

Last Season: 12-10, 4-6 Blue.

Strengths: Guards, returning seniors

Weakness: Youth, losing a ton of talent.

The Yellow Jackets led by legendary long time coach Tim Morton lost a ton of talent from last season but they do return Guard Marton Cole who was one of their leading scorers from a year ago. Avondale also returns seniors Jordan Douglas, William Fahoone, Daniel Minton, and Nick Whiteside, who after a strong football season is returning to play basketball. Avondale also has players who have plenty of potential and have talent in underclassmen Derrick Hinton, Donovan Bowers, and Ezekiel Ringstaff. It could be growing pains early for the Yellow Jackets but once they get later in the season, Avondale could be a dangerous team to play against.

SEAHOLM MAPLES

Last Season: 9-13, 3-7 Blue.

Strengths: Post presence.

Weakness: Graduated heavy, can they compete in the White?

The Maples coached by Mike DeGeeter are in an interesting spot. Despite losing a lot of seniors including Henry Diehl and having a losing record in the Blue last season, they opted to move up to the White. They return Forward Brady Flynn but it is important for him to stay healthy and return some solid pieces. Seaholm also expects strong contributions from Joel Mitchell, Max Schumaker, Paul Jokish, Nick Lang, and Vashanav Siddapurredy, many of whom played football for the Maples. Seaholm always plays hard and competes but they did graduate heavily last year and the competition is stronger, will they compete?

Blue

INSIGHT: This is an interesting division when you look at it with different styles that each team produces. There is one new head coach and one team that comes from the White. The rest of the teams were either in the Blue or Gold last season. The favorite has to be Pontiac with whom they have back and the addition of a transfer whom came back from Georgia. Orion returns a ton of experience and will have a say. Rochester has a ton of talent back and a new coach. Farmington will be a team that could have a say. Ferndale returns a ton of experience. Berkley is always scrappy and competitive. Royal Oak will be a team to keep an eye on this season. Harrison could have a say as well. This will be a tough division when looking at it.

DREAM SCHEDULE: Harrison: The Hawks are in a good spot when it comes to their non conference scheduling. Harrison will have two tough ones with Seaholm and Milford. Those two games look winnable as well in the process. They will go to Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills to play in an invitational with either Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills, Wayland Union, or Rockford. Harrison should have no problem with Trillium Academy before heading into league play.

NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Orion: The Dragons have a tough non league schedule this season. Anytime you have to play Clarkston and Davison in there it will be a challenge. Orion has to also play Adams, Romeo, Avondale, and Oxford then it’s league play. The Dragons will have plenty of experience which should help them out a lot.

TEAM THAT HAS A LOT TO PROVE: Rochester: The Falcons have a Senior heavy team but a new coach in Vince Kirkwood as well. Rochester has an interesting non league schedule with games against Stoney Creek, Adams, Avondale, and Warren DeLaSalle which will be tough games. Fraser and Detroit University Prep should be wins for the Falcons before the league schedule starts. Rochester has a ton to prove to see where they are at.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Royal Oak: The Ravens will work and play hard for coach Aaron Smith but the non conference could be interesting with tough games against Groves and Clawson but winnable games against Mount Clemens, Madison, and Royal Oak Shrine. Royal Oak could have some issues in the non league which could translate to league play.

PONTIAC PHOENIX

Last Season: 3-17, 0-10 White.

Strengths: Experience/size.

Weakness: Chemistry/lack of familiarity

The Phoenix are the great unknown heading into the season. Pontiac did move down from the White which they were winless and moved down to the Blue. Being in the Blue will be very unfamiliar to Pontiac who has played in either the Red or the White. They did take a big step back in Dorium Kellam whom is currently having some legal issues. Pontiac will have some key pieces back for Coach Joel Schroeder in Dominque Stovall, Cleontal Brown, Daveaun Cole, and D’Quarion Cole. Brown will be the top big in the post this season but Stovall will give them some more size in the front court. Guard play could be an issue but the Phoenix brought back a transfer from Georgia in Delance Thomas. Thomas transferred back to Pontiac from Georgia, where he won a State Championship. It will be interesting to see what the Phoenix have this season but with Thomas it helps a lot.

ORION DRAGONS

Last Season: 4-17, 2-8 Blue.

Strengths: Experience/ hard working team/emotion/depth.

Weakness: Size/secondary scoring.

The Dragons led by Coach Jim Manzo had a rough season last year finishing last in the Blue but they return to the Blue with a boatload of experience and emotion. Orion brings a ton of experience back led by guard Jamie Lewis. The Dragons also return Guards Jack Cummings, Drew Crane, Forwards Pierce Burke, Casey Stironek, and Center Nate Talbot. Orion will lean on the team’s experience and emotion after what happened last season. Secondary scoring and size could be challenges but with the way Orion plays, they will contend for a league title.

ROCHESTER FALCONS

Last Season: 11-11, 3-7 Blue.

Strength: Post.

Weakness: Old habits/consistent guard scoring.

The Falcons have a new coach in Vance Kirkwood. Kirkwood takes over for John Pleasant whom resigned at the end of the season. Kirkwood comes from Royal Oak and coach Arron Smith’s program in which he was the Junior Varsity Coach but he does coach the Boys Golf team at Rochester. The Falcons have improved each season since they went 0-21 in the 2014-2015 season but took a step back in league play  going 3-7 in league last season. Rochester returns three very good players in LaMarko Gulledge, Corey Gulledge, and Hunter Schlatter. Schlatter is the team’s starting point guard and the Gulledge brothers are in the post. Rochester has Luke Kastran, Ryan Noble, and Drake Reid in the mix as well. The Falcons besides Schlatter needs someone else to step up from the guard front. The other concern for Rochester is that they have has a bad habit of getting disinterested at times. If they eliminate that habit and find help for Schlatter then the Falcons could be in the mix for not only a division title but a district title as well.

FARMINGTON FALCONS

Last Season: 16-5, 7-1 Gold.

Strengths: Mental Mindset/hard working team/familiarity.

Weakness: Replacing best shooter and best player.

After winning the gold division last year, Farmington looks to contend in the Blue this season. The Falcons lost four key players from last year including forward Jordan Graham and sharpshooter Quintin Kirby but coach Terrance Porter’s team returns a strong group of played led by forward Ray Bryant, and Guards Christian Smith, Bashar Shalal, and Austin Anthony. The Falcons also have two freshman in Tariq Humes and Jaden Atkins that are also expected to contribute. The Sophomore class will be key for Farmington to see which direction the programs goes. Another thing that helps the Falcons is that they are familiar with most of the teams in the league having played in the Gold and seeing other teams when they were in the Blue. The Falcons will be in the mix to contend for a league title this season.

FERNDALE EAGLES

Last Season: 5-15, 3-5 Gold.

Strengths: Experience.

Weakness: Depth.

The Eagles bring back a ton of experience for coach Tom Stanton’s team, only losing one player from a team who last season went to the District Final. Ferndale will be led by their 6.5 center in Brian Pozolo and they will be guard heavy led by Deondre Bonaparte. The Eagles also return Reggie Davis, Rodereck McClure, Trevon Coleman, Keelan Lucas, Trey McKeithen, and Will Scott. Ferndale toughened their schedule this year which will help their program. Depth will also be an issue especially going against schools who field bigger teams in terms of numbers.

BERKLEY BEARS

Last Season: 4-17, 2-6 Gold.

Strengths: Program/work ethic.

Weakness: Offense.

After going through a rough season last year, Berkley coach Joe Sermo will have an experienced team back led by Guard Greg McGee. He will lead a solid group of guards consisting of Jason Holloway, Tyler Spencer, and Ari Yaker. The Bears also field forwards Matt Austin, Evan Payne, Josh James, David Long and centers Herbert Simpson and Christian Talley. The Bears field a solid program with strong underclass teams. They are also very athletic and competitive. Offense will be a challenge for the Bears, last year they struggled to score. They need to be consistent on both side of the ball. If they are consistent, Berkley will be in a position to contend for a league title.   

ROYAL OAK RAVENS

Last Season: 14-6, 6-2 Gold.

Strengths: Guards.

Weakness: Replacing senior leadership.

After having a 14 win season and competing for a Gold Championship, Royal Oak under Coach Aaron Smith lost a lot of seniors and will have to rely on underclassmen in order to pick up the load. Royal Oak is a hard working and scrappy team. They will be led by Guard Carter Ellis along with Jovan Martin, and Mohammed Zonue. Royal Oak looks to compete on the defensive end which is one of Smith’s strengths. One thing about Royal Oak is that a lot of teams tend to overlook them and they use that to their advantage. For the Ravens to compete, they must play well defensively and they can put themselves in position to contend for a league title. 

HARRISON HAWKS

Last Season: 5-15, 2-6 Gold.

Strengths: A ton of offense.

Weakness: Depth/defense/size.

The Hawks were a mess last season under coach Stefan Wilson especially from the defensive end where they had issues. Harrison should be better this season and they got a big transfer from Troy Athens in Brandon Cotton. Cotton went for football purposes but he plays basketball as well. The Hawks also have Alex Krieske to lead the way as well. Harrison will score in bunches but the question this season for the Hawks will be is can they defend??? The Hawks schedule is very favorable as well. Expect Harrison to compete this season.