Basketball Stocks and Ranks.

Written Saturday January 26th at 10:45 AM

Here are the updated rankings. The West Bloomfield Boys Game will be updated later today.

Boys

STOCK HIGH

Clarkston (12-2, Rank 1): Wolves rolling on all cylinders right now.

Oxford (13-0, Rank 2): Wildcats control their destiny in the Blue.

Adams (11-3, Rank 3): It’s awesome to see Austin Urusy back on the floor. He will help this team big time.

Pontiac (13-1, Rank 4): Phoenix will get Oxford again at Sy Green Gy but for now the rest of the Blue look out.

STOCK MEDIUM

North Farmington (9-3, Rank 5): Raiders have won four straight which is a good sign.

Farmington (9-4, Rank 6): Falcons beat Adams on Friday night, needs the Highlanders to lose one more to be back in the White race.

Lake Orion (8-6, Rank 7): Dragons in a tough patch right now. Then again they should be fine going forward.

Groves (9-5, Rank 8): Falcons have gotten things turned around a little bit.

Troy (8-5, Rank 9): Coming back from 17 down on the road is a big deal for the Colts.

West Bloomfield (5-8, Rank 10): Lakers are 0-4 since Donovan Moore went down with an injury but good news is on the horizon.

Oak Park (6-6, Rank 11): Knights have had a ton of ups and downs this season.

Ferndale (6-6, Rank 12): Eagles have been scoring in bunches recently.

Southfield Arts and Tech (6-5, Rank 13): Warriors have been around 500 lately.

Stoney Creek (6-7, Rank 14): Cougars have been playing better lately.

Bloomfield Hills (5-9, Rank 15): Blackhawks are 1-5 in January which is not good.

Berkley (7-5, Rank 16): Don’t look now but the Bears have won four straight.

STOCK DOWN

Avondale (4-9, Rank 17): Yellow Jackets have been competitive lately.

Seaholm (4-9, Rank 18): January has been a good month for the Maples thus far 3-3, that’s not bad.

Harrison (6-7, Rank 19): Hawks have lost three straight since starting the month strong.

Royal Oak (4-8, Rank 20): Ravens are 1-5 in January which is not good.

Troy Athens (2-11, Rank 21): Red Hawks have lost six straight games.

Rochester (1-11, Rank 22): Falcons really struggling right now.

Hazel Park (1-12, Rank 23): The Vikings are ready for the MAC right now.

Girls

STOCK HIGH

Southfield Arts and Tech (12-1, Rank 1): No new changes with the Warriors.

Royal Oak (12-0, Rank 2): Ravens still unbeaten but big showdown looms on Tuesday

West Bloomfield (9-1, Rank 3): Lakers no doubt the best team in the White.

Avondale (10-1, Rank 4): Yellow Jackets length has posed a problem for teams lately.

STOCK MEDIUM

Stoney Creek (8-4, Rank 5): The Cougars have seemed to get back on track, thank you Paul Finebaum.

Clarkston (5-6, Rank 6): Wolves had a tough loss to Southfield Arts and Tech but they will be tested against Stoney Creek this week.

Oxford (7-4, Rank 7): Wildcats had a split week but they will be fine going forward.

Lake Orion (6-5, Rank 8): Dragons when motivated are as good as any team in the White.

Adams (5-6, Rank 9): Highlanders played tough against Avondale but they are “Trusting the Process”

Troy (6-5, Rank 10): Colts snapped a four game losing streak but they have Oxford next.

Bloomfield Hills (5-6, Rank 11): As mentioned last week, welcome back Maryiam Hashim.

Rochester (5-6, Rank 12): Falcons have control of the Blue right now.

Berkley (9-2, Rank 13): Yep the Rochester game told me a lot about this team.

STOCK DOWN

Troy Athens (3-7, Rank 14): The Red Hawks have been hot and cold lately.

Seaholm (6-4, Rank 15): Maples haven’t had the greatest of weeks but they are making progress.

Pontiac (6-6, Rank 16): Phoenix have either been hot or cold, the record shows it.

North Farmington (2-10, Rank 17): Raiders played better than the last two but it wasn’t enough.

Ferndale (5-5, Rank 18): Eagles have not been consistent, record shows why.

Farmington (1-10, Rank 19): Falcons have lost seven straight games, which is not good.

Oak Park (4-5, Rank 20): Knights have not been consistent and record shows it.

Groves (2-10, Rank 21): Falcons have lost four straight and not even been competitive.

Hazel Park (0-12, Rank 22): The MAC can’t come soon enough.

Podcast
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-020419

Addressing the Officials Crisis.

Written Monday January 21st at 12:00 AM

When I look what has been going on throughout the season. I’ve seen all the negative headlines that has made the news and especially during basketball games where fights are occurring and fans are getting onto the court.

It occurred in South Haven, Lawrence Tech, New Haven, and Oakland University this season.

In 2016, I remember the North Farmington/Hazel Park game where we remembered what happened

there.

We all have to learn ourselves, basketball and sports is just a game. It isn’t life or death.

Basketball is an emotional game, I get it but there are other ways to make sure games are safer and cleaner for everyone involved.

We don’t need parents and fans screaming and making fools of themselves. It doesn't make anyone feel good.

It’s not about the parents, it’s about the players who are enjoying playing high school sports.

Not all of it is about the college scholarship, it shouldn't have to be. There is only a SMALL percentage of kids who are playing college athletics.

I know officials are human and they make mistakes. Making mistakes is only human.

There is a reason why officials aren’t officiating anymore. It’s because of parental behavior in the stands. They can’t take that abuse.

Officials are human, they have jobs like the rest of us. Even though the pay is not that great. They do it because they love the game.

You don’t have to agree with the call but you have to respect it. We don’t have instant replay in high school basketball. I think at times maybe we need instant replay not just basketball but in all sports. Replay does not lie, video does not lie.

Should the MHSAA consider instant replay???

I know there are pros and cons. The cons are the games will take longer but the pros outweigh the negatives. You want to get the calls right and it takes the pressure off the officials.

At the end of the day something has to change, we all want what is best for our kids but we have to respect the officials and encourage more people to be officials.

My Podcast on this subject
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-012119

Basketball Districts Midway Point.

Written Sunday January 20th at 11:00 PM

We are at the halfway point of the season for both boys and girls basketball. Here are my insights and thoughts heading into the Basketball Districts which will be played in late February and early March.

These aren’t my official predictions but it gives an idea where everyone is at and whom to look at heading toward districts.

Boys

District 5 at Lake Orion

OXFORD vs. Romeo

ADAMS vs. CLARKSTON

OXFORD/Romeo vs. Waterford Kettering

ADAMS/CLARKSTON vs. LAKE ORION

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Adams

WILDCARD: Lake Orion

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Oxford

INSIGHT: Heading into the mid-season, nothing has really changed when you look at the teams. Oxford is leading the Blue and is unbeaten. The Wildcats are deep as they are led by Trey Townsend and Michael Rasich. Adams who is leading the White has won 10 straight since starting 0-2 has Gunner Walters and Ethan Emerzian. Clarkston who leads the Red has also won 10 straight since starting 0-2 has a boatload of young talent led by Fletcher Loyer, Keegan Waslik, and Matt Nicholson. Lake Orion has struggled recently but home court is always important. The Dragons have the talent to win this district led by Nate Talbot, Drew Van Heck, Isiah Harris, Kyle Loken, Jake Rydquist, Shayne Barkley, and Jack Cummings. Romeo has struggled this season in the tough Macomb Area White with the likes of Grosse Pointe North and New Haven but they will be a tough out led by Blake McRae, Ryan Heimbuch, and Brock Horne. Waterford Kettering right now looks to be the weakest team in this district but they have Drew Gerwails and Travis Frasier. This will be a tough district for sure to come out of.

District 7 at Bloomfield Hills

WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. AVONDALE

Orchard Lake St. Marys vs. Waterford Mott

WEST BLOOMFIELD/AVONDALE vs. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield

NEXT: Orchard Lake St. Marys

WILDCARD: Waterford Mott

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: West Bloomfield

INSIGHT: Heading into the midseason, there are a few surprised and a few head scratchers right now. West Bloomfield has Donovan Moore, Robert Johnson, and Chase Glover-Rogers. The Lakers have played a tough schedule and the injury to Moore has not helped their cause. Bloomfield Hills has been an inconsistent team picking up big wins over West Bloomfield and North Farmington but bad losses to Rochester and Novi feature Collin Hecker, Mason Canfield, and Alec Ward. Avondale has been my biggest disappointment thus far but the postseason can change things and they have very talented guards in Kobe Anthony, Derrick Hinton, and Zeke Ringstaff. Orchard Lake St. Marys has had a good season thus far has some loaded talent as well led by Kareem Rosier, Lorne Bowman, and Peter Nwoke. Waterford Mott is an athletic team that is making noise in the Lakes Valley Conference led by Kamariell Manley, Azion Price, Damarion Bonds, Trayale Soloman, and Kemonnie Fields. The Corsairs will be a team to watch come playoff time. This will be an interesting district that is for sure.

District 18 at Novi

FARMINGTON vs. Novi

NORTH FARMINGTON vs. Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON/Novi vs. Detroit Catholic Central

NORTH FARMINGTON/Livonia Stevenson vs. Northville

FAVORITE: Novi Detroit Catholic Central

NEXT: North Farmington

WILDCARD: Northville

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Northville

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting district over at Novi. North Farmington has had a rebirth a little bit this season with their record midway through the season. The Raiders are a junior heavy team that features Yusif Jihad, Justice Sallam, and Eddie Linton. Farmington who has been up and down lately when it comes to consistency when on has the best three guards in this district led by Tariq Humes, Tariq Sheppard, and Jared Atkins. The interior is a question for the Falcons. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of experience back but have been around 500 recently. Novi has Giovanni Miles back and has been at 500 midway through. Novi Detroit Catholic Central has had a strong start to the season and has played a tough schedule. Northville is off to a really good start led by a ton of experience led by Zach Shoemaker, Steven Morrisey, and Ryan Pumper. This district will be an interesting one to watch as mentioned.

District 28 at Groves

GROVES vs. Birmingham Brother Rice

BERKLEY vs. ROYAL OAK

GROVES/Brother Rice vs. SEAHOLM

FAVORITE: Groves

NEXT: Birmingham Brother Rice

WILDCARD: Royal Oak

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Groves/Birmingham Brother Rice winner.

INSIGHT: This district is not as strong as I first thought when I saw it at the midway point. There are some teams here that are really struggling. Seaholm is very young and it’s showing with their record thus far even though they do have wins over Berkley and Rochester but a bad loss to Harrison. Berkley whom is around 500 has a nice blend of youth and experience as well but they do have a bad loss to Seaholm on their record. Royal Oak has been a disappointment to me thus far, thought they would make some noise but they have not despite having Jonvan Martin, Toby Adensyna, and Joe Binkowski. Groves has had a strong start to the season and has a ton of close games. The Falcons are led by Rogers Motley, Daniel Lee, and Grant Gilbert. Birmingham Brother Rice has played a tough schedule in the Catholic League and their record has showed it. The Warriors are led by Jon Brantley and Zach Maynard. The way I see this district right now, this is a two team district.

District 25 at Detroit Mumford

OAK PARK vs. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs. Redford Union

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit/OAK PARK vs. Detroit Renaissance

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH/Redford Union vs. Detroit Mumford

FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit

NEXT: Detroit Mumford

WILDCARD: Oak Park

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Southfield Arts and Tech

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district at the midway point of the season with where each of these teams are at thus far. Oak Park has had an inconsistent season despite having a ton of talent led by Fred Garland, Jaylen Mines, Maliq Carr, and Dovonate Edwards. Southfield Arts and Tech has been up and down but they are talented led by Cameron McEvans and Terrell Humes. Detroit Renaissance has had a strong season this far despite having Chandler Turner and Kylin Grant despite all the turmoil that has surrounded them in the offseason. Detroit Mumford has had a 500 season thus far. Redford Union has had a good season thus far led by Nathanial Brown. Detroit University Detroit Jesuit has had injuries but when healthy they could be the best team in the State of Michigan led by Jalen Thomas along with Caleb Hunter, Daniel Friday, and J.T. Morgan. This will be an interesting district that will be for sure.

District 29 at Utica

Utica Eisenhower vs. ROCHESTER

Utica vs. STONEY CREEK

Utica Eisenhower/ROCHESTER vs. TROY

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Troy

WILDCARD: Stoney Creek

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Stoney Creek

INSIGHT: This looks to be a pick-em district midway into the season with how these teams are playing. Stoney Creek has been around 500 despite playing better lately led by the likes of Griffin Beears, Pat Ghaly, Trevor Smith, and Alex Reiter. Troy has been in the same boat as Stoney Creek battling around 500 and has a talented backcourt of Brody Parker and Clay Sebestian. Rochester has had a tough season but they could spoil someone’s dreams led by Corey Gulledge, Ryan Noble, Drake Reid, and Cameron Caggins. Utica Eisenhower who is having a better season is loaded with talent led by Anthony Cukaj, Lorenzo Dilusio, Steve Selmani, Massimo D;Aristolle, and JaiJavante Reid. Utica has had a tough season thus far but they do have homecourt which should help them out. Like I said earier in June and it still holds true, I see four teams having a shot at winning this district.

District 30 at Utica Ford

TROY ATHENS vs. Chippewa Valley

Utica Ford vs. Sterling Heights Stevenson

TROY ATHENS/Chippewa Valley vs. Sterling Heights

FAVORITE: Sterling Heights Stevenson

NEXT: Troy Athens

WILDCARD: Chippewa Valley

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Sterling Heights Stevenson

INSIGHT: This is not a strong district when you look at the record of these teams thus far. Troy Athens has not had the greatest of seasons but they do have a lot of young talent heading into this district. Chippewa Valley has been around 500 looking to figure things out led by Tommy Schuster, whom led their football team to a Division One State title. Sterling Heights Stevenson has had a great start with a ton of experience back. Sterling Heights has had a rough start thus far but anything is possible with them. Utica Ford has had a tough season thus far as well. Right now until things change, I don’t see anyone getting pass the Titans.

District 61 at Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Clawson vs. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

PONTIAC vs. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Clawson/ Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood vs. Birmingham Detroit Country Day

PONTIAC/Notre Dame Prep vs. HARRISON

FAVORITE: Pontiac

NEXT: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

WILDCARD: Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Pontiac

INSIGHT: This could be an interesting district with four teams having winning records. Pontiac is off to a fantastic start thus far and they are senior heavy. Harrison has been around 500 in their final season as a school. Birmingham Detroit Country Day has home court but hasn’t had the strongest of seasons thus far despite having Julian Roper. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood has had a great start thus far in the Catholic League and they have a boatload of talent back. Clawson has struggled thus far. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has been around 500 thus far but have played a tough schedule. I see three teams having a shot at winning this district.

District 60 at Warren Lincoln

FERNDALE vs. Madison Heights Lamphere

HAZEL PARK vs. Ferndale University

FERNDALE/Madison Heights Lamphere vs. Center Line

HAZEL PARK/Ferndale University vs. Warren Lincoln

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Warren Lincoln

WILDCARD: Madison Heights Lamphere

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Warren Lincoln

INSIGHT: This is not as strong of a district as people think when looking at it. Ferndale has had a strong season thus far led by Teonah McKeithen, Keelan Lucas, Brian Polozo but only two of the five transfers are currently playing right now. Hazel Park has not had a good season in its final year in the OAA. Warren Lincoln whom won 15 games last season is off to a good start thus far and has home court in the district. Ferndale University has had a tough season thus far. Center Line has struggled thus far. Lamphere is struggling as well. This is a two team district with both teams meeting in the district finals.

Girls

District 5 at Lake Orion

Waterford Kettering vs. OXFORD

LAKE ORION vs. Romeo

Waterford Kettering/OXFORD vs. CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION/Romeo vs. ADAMS

FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering

NEXT: Romeo

WILDCARD: Clarkston

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Adams

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district when you look at it. Oxford is having a good season and they have experience led by Ashley Hershmann, Hayla Cato, Sarah Terryll, and Mackenzie Methner. Clarkston had a tough start to the season but is playing better. The Wolves are led by Taylor Heaten and has gotten big contributions from Lexi Linton, Kaitlyn Kaul, Olivia Toderian, and Piper Bosart. Adams is loaded with young talent and is having a better season. The Highlanders have Maddie Dogehna, Lauren Petersmark, Amelia Drahnak, and Nicole Clarehout, and Sydney Reed. Lake Orion whom is the host has been on the upward swing lately and they feature some talent in Paytin Shadaia, Sophie Wyborski, Kylie Anderson, Katie Janoss, Grace Berger, and Melissa Normand. Waterford Kettering has not had the best of seasons thus far but they have a ton of talent back led by Ashley Watson, Clare Braghahn, Markayla Holland, Bianca Kaiser, Kate Frazier, Izzy Dugal, and Irene Schoff. Romeo has had a good start thus far in the Macomb Area Conference White. The Bulldogs are led by Olivia Medaugh and Aubrey Medaugh. This should be an interesting district to keep an eye on as we go later in the season.

District 7 at West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD vs. AVONDALE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs. NORTH FARMINGTON

WEST BLOOMFIELD/AVONDALE vs. Waterford Mott

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield

NEXT: Bloomfield Hills

WILDCARD: Waterford Mott

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Bloomfield Hills

INSIGHT: This is a mostly OAA district with one Lakes Valley Conference team. West Bloomfield has is having a strong year thus far leading the White and gaining momentum. The Lakers are led by Mya Bobo, Jada Grady, Logan Lewis, Mikayla Duncan, Lola Chambers, and Ikia Elam. Avondale has had a strong start especially in the White. The Yellow Jackets are loaded led by Keori Lee, Olivia Russell, Reigan Lawrence, Brila Benion, and Meisha Rodriguez. North Farmington has had a disappointing start even though they have Molly Simpson and Mya Kelly. It hasn’t been an easy road for the Raiders. Bloomfield Hills when hot is very good to go along with playing in the Red. The Blackhawks are led by Maryiam Hashim, Grace Getz, Angelina Savaya, and Jordan Banks. Waterford Mott is a physical team and also a very good team led by Abby Unleger, Kelly Willy, and Aleea Austin. This district will be interesting to see what happens at West Bloomfield later in the year.

District 18 at Novi

Northville vs. Livonia Stevenson

Novi vs. FARMINGTON

Northville/Livonia Stevenson vs. Farmington Hills Mercy

FAVORITE: Northville

NEXT: Farmington Hills Mercy

WILDCARD: Farmington

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Farmington

INSIGHT: This could be an interesting district when you look at the teams here thus far. Farmington has had a tough season thus far even though they have Iasia Rimpson, Cecila Norris, and Hailey Walker. Livonia Stevenson has been around 500 which has been disappointing with a ton of experience back. Northville has a ton of experience back and is off to a strong start thus far. Novi has struggled thus far. Farmington Hills Mercy is off to a strong start led by Ellie Tisko and Julia Bishop and a young but talented core along with playing in the always tough Catholic League. This will be a very competitive district that is for sure.

District 28 at Birmingham Marian

SEAHOLM vs. GROVES

BERKLEY vs. Birmingham Marian

GROVES/SEAHOLM vs. ROYAL OAK

FAVORITE: Birmingham Marian

NEXT: Royal Oak

WILDCARD: Berkley

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Royal Oak

INSIGHT: We could be on a collision course between Royal Oak and Birmingham Marian in this district. Royal Oak is undefeated and features Samantha Potter, Jessica Adams, and gotten some guard play from Nila Conley. Groves has really struggled in the Red but has Ellie Ruprich and Emily Felix. Seaholm has struggled with consistency. Berkley has a ton of experience led by Savannah Casida, Olivia DiCarlo along with 10 seniors but their non conference schedule has not been that impressive even though they have a winning record. Birmingham Marian is improved then they were last season and is currently unbeaten. The Mustangs are led by Olivia Moore and the emergence of Shannon Kennedy, Megan Kraus, Sophia Mancini, Sarah Sylvester, and Lauren Licari. This district has Royal Oak vs Birmingham Marian all over it.

District 25 at Detroit Mumford

Detroit Mumford vs. Redford Union

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs. Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford/Redford Union vs. OAK PARK

FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech

NEXT: Detroit Renaissance

WILDCARD: Detroit Mumford

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Detroit Mumford

INSIGHT: This is a loaded district right now when looking at the teams in this district. Southfield Arts and Tech is loaded led by Cheyenne McEvans, Alexis Johnson, Soldeil Barnes, Keonia Willis, and Jasmine Worthy. Oak Park has had a tough season and is the weakest team in this district. Detroit Renaissance is also loaded with young talent and is having a great year thus far led by Kailee Davis, Shannon Wheeler, MiKyah Finley, and Nika Dorsey. Detroit Mumford is having a great season thus far as well led by Adoreya Williams and Shanea Dinwiddle and home court as well. Redford Union is also having a good year thus far as well. All these teams have at least eight wins thus far. This will be a fun district.

District 29 at Utica

STONEY CREEK vs. Utica

TROY vs. Utica Eisenhower

STONEY CREEK/Utica vs. ROCHESTER

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Stoney Creek

WILDCARD: Troy

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Stoney Creek

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district when you look at the teams. Stoney Creek is a team of mystery thus far led by Lily DiPani, Emily Eckhout, and Meghan Solek. The Cougars beat Waterford Kettering, Adams, and Troy but had a bad loss to Bloomfield Hills. Troy has had a bounce back thus far led by freshman Kendal Zeiter along with the experience of Emily Olson, Athena Sampson, Nishya Bhargava, and Riya Chakravity. Rochester has had a bounce back in the Blue but they have not fared well outside of the league even though they have Tori Hawkins among others back. Utica Eisenhower is gaining confidence which included a win at Macomb Dakota and features Lauren DeBeau. Utica has not had a strong season but they can turn it around and they have homecourt. This will be an interesting district that is for sure.

District 30 at Troy Athens

Chippewa Valley vs. Sterling Heights Stevenson

TROY ATHENS vs. Utica Ford

Chippewa Valley/Sterling Heights Stevenson vs. Sterling Heights

FAVORITE: Troy Athens

NEXT: Utica Ford

WILDCARD: Chippewa Valley

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Chippewa Valley

INSIGHT: This is not a strong district but it could be an interesting one when looking at the teams. Troy Athens has struggled a little bit but might be the favorite in this district, they host and they have three players in Izzy Crum, Grace Bright, and Abby Bright back. Sterling Heights is winless thus far. Chippewa Valley has struggled thus far even though they have Abby Wochalski back. Sterling Heights Stevenson has been around 500. Utica Ford has been around 500 and has arguably the best player in this district led by Olivia Kubik. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on.

District 61 at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep vs. Clawson

Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs. PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep/Clawson vs. Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy

Detroit Country Day/Pontiac vs. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Wixom St Catherine Sienna Academy

WILDCARD: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting district but the favorite has to be Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Pontiac has been around 500 thus far and the road could get tougher for them. Birmingham Detroit Country Day has not had the strongest of seasons thus far but they have a ton of talent led by Jasmine Powell and Maddie Novak. Wixom St. Catherine Sienna Academy has a ton of experience back which has got them back on track. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep hasn’t had the strongest of seasons thus far but they have home court and two solid players back in Sarah Stuart and Mary Bonema. Clawson has been around 500 thus far. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood is off to a strong start with playing in the Catholic League. I think this will be a competitive district but end of the day no one is beating the Yellow Jackets.

District 60 at Hazel Park

Warren Lincoln vs. Ferndale University

HAZEL PARK vs. Center Line

Warren Lincoln/Ferndale University vs. FERNDALE

HAZEL PARK/Center Line vs. Lamphere

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Warren Lincoln

WILDCARD: Madison Heights Lamphere

TEAM THAT GOT THE BEST DRAW: Warren Lincoln

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting district. Ferndale has been around 500 but they have talent back led by Kenshia Williams, Jayiah Love, and Kyra Newman. Hazel Park has had a long season but they have two bigs that could make some noise in their final season in the OAA. Center Line is off to a solid start thus far and has a lot of experience back. Madison Heights Lamphere has been around 500 despite having an experienced team. Ferndale University has been struggling thus far. Warren Lincoln is off to a good start thus far. I think three teams have a shot to win this district.

Basketball Stocks and Ranks.

Written Saturday January 19th at 1:00 AM
Updated Saturday January 19th at 4:30 PM

Here are my basketball stocks and ranks for the week, enjoy.

Also the records will be updated after Saturday's games at Ypsilanti Arbor Prep, Warren Fitzgerald, and Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills are concluded.

Boys

STOCK HIGH

Clarkston (10-2, Rank 1): Wolves rolling on all cylinders right now.

Adams (10-2, Rank 2): Highlanders have won 10 straight since losing to Lake Orion and Oxford.

Oxford (11-0, Rank 3): Wildcats control their destiny in the Blue.

Pontiac (11-1, Rank 4): Phoenix will get Oxford again at Sy Green Gym.

STOCK MEDIUM

North Farmington (8-3, Rank 5): Raiders have won three straight but they have Bloomfield Hills looming which they have lost three straight to the Blackhawks.

West Bloomfield (5-6, Rank 6): Lakers missing Donovan Moore right now and it’s showing.

Lake Orion (7-5, Rank 7): Dragons decision making is a big reason why they have lost three straight.

Farmington (7-4, Rank 8): Falcons have not been consistent since losing to Stoney Creek.

Ferndale (5-6, Rank 9): Eagles have struggled defensively which has coach Juan Rickman concerned.

Groves (8-4, Rank 10): Falcons the most surprise team in the White.

Oak Park (6-5, Rank 11): Knights haven’t been consistent at times which could be a problem come playoff time.

Troy (7-5, Rank 12): Getting first league win was a huge step in the right direction.

Bloomfield Hills (5-7, Rank 13): Blackhawks get Clarkston and a North Farmington team that they own this week.

Stoney Creek (5-7, Rank 14): Cougars have played better lately.

Southfield Arts and Tech (6-4, Rank 15): Warriors have won three straight since the Groves disaster.

STOCK DOWN

Berkley (5-5, Rank 16): Any time your student section storms the court is a good thing but the bad news your rival is going to remember this and play harder the next time you play.

Harrison (6-5, Rank 17): Hawks putting up points but they are also allowing points as well, they just allowed 100 points to Ferndale on Thursday.

Avondale (3-8, Rank 18): Yellow Jackets interior remains a concern moving forward.

Royal Oak (4-6, Rank 19): I’m a loss for words with the Ravens.

Seaholm (3-8, Rank 20): It’s good to see the Maples get into the win column.

Troy Athens (2-10, Rank 21): When you have lost five straight games and you Detroit University of Detroit Jesuit looming, that’s not good for the Red Hawks.

Rochester (1-10, Rank 22): Falcons will get a big boost next week.

Hazel Park (1-10, Rank 23): The Vikings are ready for the MAC right now.

Girls

STOCK HIGH

Southfield Arts and Tech (11-1, Rank 1): No new changes with the Warriors.

Royal Oak (10-0, Rank 2): Ravens still unbeaten after beating Stoney Creek and Groves.

West Bloomfield (8-1, Rank 3): Lakers no doubt the best in the White.

Avondale (9-1, Rank 4): Yellow Jackets have looked vulnerable lately.

STOCK MEDIUM

Clarkston (5-5, Rank 5): Wolves have won five straight but the bad news is that they have Southfield Arts and Tech on Tuesday.

Stoney Creek (6-4, Rank 6): The Cougars defense is MIA right now.

Oxford (6-3, Rank 7): Wildcats have been winning games ugly lately.

Lake Orion (5-4, Rank 8): Dragons are on the way up after two close games against the best teams in the White.

Adams (4-5, Rank 9): Highlanders young talent starting to get things going.

Troy (5-5, Rank 10): Colts have lost four straight which is not good.

Bloomfield Hills (4-6, Rank 11): Welcome back Maryiam Hashim.

Rochester (4-5, Rank 12): Falcons have won three straight. Tuesday is a huge game in Berkley.

Berkley (9-1, Rank 13): Tuesday will prove to me if the Bears are contenders or pretenders.

Troy Athens (3-6, Rank 14): The Red Hawks have been hot and cold lately.

STOCK DOWN

Seaholm (5-3, Rank 15): Maples are in a load of trouble right now starting with Tuesday against Royal Oak.

Pontiac (6-6, Rank 16): Phoenix have either been hot or cold, the record shows it.

North Farmington (2-9, Rank 17): 34 points in two games is not a winning formula.

Farmington (1-9, Rank 18): Falcons have lost six straight games which is not good.

Oak Park (4-4, Rank 19): Knights have not been consistent and record shows it.

Groves (2-8, Rank 20): Falcons have lost four straight and not even been competitive.

Ferndale (4-5, Rank 21): Eagles have not been consistent, record shows why.

Hazel Park (0-11, Rank 22): The MAC can’t come soon enough.

Basketball Stocks and Ranks.

Written Saturday January 12th at 12:40 AM

Here are my updated basketball ranks and stocks to enjoy.

Boys

STOCK HIGH

Pontiac (10-0, Rank 1): The Phoenix are in a really good spot right now. They have a big week ahead though with Ferndale and Oxford looming.

Clarkston (8-2, Rank 2): The Wolves have won eight straight. They are rolling right now and firmly in control of the Red.

Adams (8-2, Rank 3): The Highlanders have won eight straight. They are firmly in control of the White right now.

Oxford (9-0, Rank 4): The Wildcats are unbeaten heading into a huge game on Tuesday against Lake Orion.

STOCK MEDIUM

West Bloomfield (5-5, Rank 5): The Lakers have played a tough schedule but losing on Friday night to West Bloomfield was rough. They have a chance to bounce back against North Farmington on Thursday.

North Farmington (6-3, Rank 6): The Raiders had a strong bounce back against Lake Orion on Friday night. North Farmington will have Farmington and West Bloomfield looming next week.

Lake Orion (7-3, Rank 7): The Dragons did not look good against North Farmington on Friday night. They have a chance to bounce back against Oxford on Tuesday.

Oak Park (6-3, Rank 8): The Knights have not been consistent lately and the results have shown despite having a winning record thus far.

Farmington (6-3, Rank 9): The warning signs were there for the Falcons and it got them against Stoney Creek on Friday night. Farmington needs a strong bounce back against North Farmington and Rochester this week.

Ferndale (4-4, Rank 10): The Eagles are starting to get back into form. We’ll know if they can bounce back if they beat Pontiac on Tuesday.

Groves (7-4, Rank 11): The Falcons have not been consistent but they are starting to peak at the right time which is a good thing heading into the postseason.

Troy (6-5, Rank 12): The Colts are struggling right now losing five of their last six games since a 5-0 start. Troy has Bloomfield Hills next week.

Bloomfield Hills (5-6, Rank 13): The Blackhawks are a mystery team. They have wins over North Farmington and West Bloomfield but they have some really bad losses to Rochester and Novi. When Bloomfield Hills is on they are hard to beat.

Stoney Creek (5-6, Rank 14): The Cougars have not been consistent all season long but they had a big win on Friday night against Farmington also a horrible loss to Avondale as well. Stoney Creek will have Groves on Thursday.

Southfield Arts and Tech (5-4, Rank 15): Warriors snapped a three game losing streak by beating Rochester. Southfield Arts and Tech has Troy Athens on Thursday.

STOCK DOWN

Harrison (5-4, Rank 16): The Hawks have a winning record and two of those wins have come against Royal Oak and Seaholm on the road. Harrison is starting to put things together. 

Berkley (3-5, Rank 17): Bears have lost four straight which included a bad loss to Seaholm. Berkley has Ferndale University and Royal Oak next week, both of them are must win games

Avondale (2-7, Rank 18): The Yellow Jackets have started to play better despite their record. Avondale has two tough games this week with Adams on Thursday and Troy Athens on Tuesday.

Royal Oak (4-5, Rank 19): The Ravens are a hard team to figure out especially with really bad losses to Harrison, Waterford Kettering, and Royal Oak Shrine.

Troy Athens (2-8, Rank 20): The Red Hawks have lost three straight since beating Madison Heights Bishop Foley. It has been a long season thus far and they have Avondale and Southfield Arts and Tech looming.

Rochester (1-9, Rank 21): The Falcons have lost five straight games since beating Bloomfield Hills. It has been a long season for Rochester and it gets tougher with Farmington on Thursday.

Seaholm (2-8, Rank 22): The Maples are struggling to find some consistency right now.

Hazel Park (1-9, Rank 23): The Vikings are getting ready to head to the MAC right now.

Girls

STOCK HIGH

Southfield Arts and Tech (8-1, Rank 1): The Warriors had two big wins over Stoney Creek and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Southfield Arts and Tech is legit right now.

Royal Oak (8-0, Rank 2): Ravens are on a collision course with Stoney Creek to meet on Tuesday.

Stoney Creek (6-2, Rank 3): The Cougars had a blowout loss to Southfield Arts and Tech but they will be fine moving forward.

West Bloomfield (6-1, Rank 4): The Lakers are the real deal right now.

Avondale (7-1, Rank 5): The Yellow Jackets are proving that they will be a force in the White.

STOCK MEDIUM

Clarkston (4-5, Rank 6): The Wolves are back, winning four straight games, and getting better.

Oxford (4-3, Rank 7): The Wildcats had a tough loss to Avondale but they are improving each week.

Troy (5-3, Rank 8): The Colts have lost two straight since beating Lake Orion which one included blowing an 11 point lead with 2:04 to force overtime. Troy needs to get some things fixed and quickly.

Lake Orion (5-2, Rank 9): Dragons gearing up for their toughest week of the season coming up.

Adams (3-4, Rank 10): Highlanders had a great week which included wins over Troy and Troy Athens. They have to go to Oxford which will be interesting.

Rochester (2-5, Rank 11): The Falcons have played better once they have gotten into league play but they have not fared well out of league. That has to change for a young Rochester group.

Berkley (7-1, Rank 12): The Bears are rolling but competition is concerning.

STOCK DOWN

Bloomfield Hills (3-5, Rank 13): The Blackhawks have lost four straight and picked up more bad news with the injury to Maryiam Hashim. Bloomfield Hills needs to fix things and quick.

Troy Athens (2-5, Rank 14): The Red Hawks got a split last week by beating Rochester but lost at Lake Orion by 20 is a concern for this team. Troy Athens needs a bounce back game in the worst way.

Seaholm (4-2, Rank 15): The Maples benefiting from being in the Blue right now.

North Farmington (2-7, Rank 16): Raiders got a huge comeback win against Farmington but they still need to find that big to step up and quick.

Farmington (1-7, Rank 17): The Falcons had a tough week losing to North Farmington and West Bloomfield. On the bright side they have three home games coming up.

Oak Park (5-2, Rank 18): The Knights are in an interesting spot but they do need to address some depth issues if they want to make an impact.

Groves (2-7, Rank 19): Falcons really struggling to find any consistency not only in the Red but had a really bad loss to Berkley last week.

Pontiac (4-6, Rank 20): The Phoenix has lost six of their last seven games since a 3-0 start.

Ferndale (3-4, Rank 21): It has not been a good week for the Eagles and they have two tough games looming next week against Rochester and Melvindale.

Hazel Park (0-9, Rank 22): It has been a long year for the Vikings and things could get ugly real quick.

The Podcast
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-01-14-19

Pontiac Does NOT have their New Varsity Football Coach as of Yet.

Written Friday January 11th at 1:00 PM

The recent blog article that was posted and now deleted now states that Pontiac has not named their football coach as of yet.

According to the source that I had thought indicated that Pontiac named Jonas Gray their head coach however Athletic Director Lee Montgomery said in a email that the interview process are still on going and that the source that I reported on was untrue.

Whoever the new coach is named will have a tough task ahead of them basically rebuilding the football program. The Phoenix as mentioned is 5-57 since 2011 and will compete in the Blue this season with the likes of Avondale, Farmington, North Farmington, Ferndale, Royal Oak, and Berkley.

We will find out when a new coach is named in next couple weeks.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest updates on the coaching search.

As mentioned if my last column offended anyone I apologize. I will do better when getting information.

Basketball Stocks and Ranks.

Written Saturday January 5th at 1:10 AM

Here are the Basketball ranks and stocks right now how I see it.

Boys

STOCK HIGH

Oxford (7-0, Rank 7): We’ll know a lot about the Wildcats on Tuesday.

Pontiac (9-0, Rank 1): Phoenix rolling right now.

Clarkston (7-2, Rank 2): Wolves are rolling right now.

Adams (6-2, Rank 5): Highlanders are proving when healthy are red hot.

Groves (6-3, Rank 8): Falcons have won five of six which is huge right now.

STOCK MEDIUM

Lake Orion (6-2, Rank 4): Life in the Red is tough sledding for the Dragons right now.

Farmington (5-2, Rank 6): Falcons making up for some lost time right now.

Oak Park (5-2, Rank 11): Mental mindset is a big concern for the Knights.

West Bloomfield (4-4, Rank 3): Lakers earned big win at Lake Orion on Friday, could it be a stepping stone forward???

Troy (6-3, Rank 12): Colts have lost three of four since a 5-0 start.

North Farmington (6-3, Rank 10): Raiders have lost three of four, which were at home no less.

Ferndale (3-3, Rank 9): Eagles long journey back to the top starts Tuesday.

Avondale (2-5, Rank 14): Two straight wins has the Yellow Jackets moving forward.

Bloomfield Hills (4-5, Rank 13): Blackhawks are very competitive right now.

STOCK DOWN

Rochester (1-7, Rank 20): It’s going to be a long and rough season for the Falcons.

Berkley (3-3, Rank 18): Bears have lost three of four since a 2-0 start.

Southfield Arts and Tech (3-4, Rank 15): Warriors have lost three straight which is a cause of concern.

Stoney Creek (4-5, Rank 16): Can’t figure the Cougars out.

Troy Athens (2-6, Rank 19): Red Hawks are a team of mystery right now.

Seaholm (1-7, Rank 22): Maples in search of answers.

Harrison (3-4, Rank 21): Hawks struggling right now to find some consistency.

Royal Oak (4-3, Rank 17): Could the win against Seaholm turn the Ravens season around???

Hazel Park (1-6, Rank 23): The Macomb Area Conference can’t come soon enough for the Vikings.

Girls

STOCK HIGH

Southfield Arts and Tech (6-1, Rank 1): This is the best team in the OAA right now period.

Royal Oak (7-0, Rank 3): Ravens will be in for a tough patch coming up in a few weeks.

Avondale (6-1, Rank 5): Yellow Jackets are still fine but we will know a lot about them this week.

Stoney Creek (5-1, Rank 2): Team Finebaum is the most underrated team no one talks about. Lily DiPani is the most underrated guard in Oakland County.

West Bloomfield (5-1, Rank 4): Lakers are rolling right now especially after a big win over Avondale.

STOCK MEDIUM

Berkley (5-1, Rank 12): Please play someone legit, the team you played that was legit was the one you lost to this season.

Clarkston (1-5, Rank 6): Great win for the Wolves over Bloomfield Hills but schedule still vicious.

Oxford (3-2, Rank 7): Wildcats starting to get things together right now.

Troy (5-1, Rank 8): Colts should be tested when they play Stoney Creek this week, looked shaky last week.

Lake Orion (3-2, Rank 10): Need to fix some things quick after two tough home league losses. This week is huge for them.

Bloomfield Hills (3-3, Rank 9): Mental sickie is a big concern especially after two losses and a tough schedule looming.

Adams (2-4, Rank 11): Highlanders still have some flaws they need to fix despite winning at Troy Athens on Friday night.

STOCK DOWN

North Farmington (1-7, Rank 16): Raiders need to find post presence and quick. You can’t rely on Maya Kelly and Molly Simpson to carry you if you want to succeed.

Farmington (1-5, Rank 17): Falcons are in a tough patch right now that needs to be addressed.

Pontiac (3-5, Rank 19): Losers of five straight thankfully they have Pontiac Academy of Excellence which the Phoenix should snap the losing streak this week.

Oak Park (4-3, Rank 20): Knights lack of depth is a big concern right now.

Ferndale (3-3), Rank 21): Eagles have lost two straight which is something they need to fix and quick.

Troy Athens (1-4, Rank 15): Red Hawks coming off a tough loss to Adams need a bounce back in the worst way.

Seaholm (3-2, Rank 18): I’m still not buying this team despite beating the teams they are supposed to beat.

Groves (2-5, Rank 14): Nothing you can do after battling Southfield Arts and Tech, just got to move onto next week.

Rochester (1-4, Rank 13): Get ready for a nice run.

Hazel Park (0-7, Rank 22): Vikings have not been competitive lately. It’s going to be a long year for Hazel Park.