Written Saturday March 10th at 6:10 PM
Before I preview the regional, I would like to congratulate the Farmington Gymnastics team on winning their first State Championship since 2006 on Friday at Rockford by edging Northville 144.75 to 144.40. Congrats to the Falcons on bringing the OAA another State Championship.
Anyway here is my regional outlook and predictions.
Region 6 @ Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit
FARMINGTON vs Detroit Martin Luther King
Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit vs Livonia Stevenson
INSIGHT: This is an regional that has the host school competing on it's home floor. Also the fact that there is one game at 4 PM because of Detroit Public School League mandates and there is one team from the Detroit Public School League that is in this district in Detroit Martin Luther King. The Crusaders beat Grosse Pointe South, Detroit Cass Tech, and Detroit Western to get to this regional. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit won a very tough district which had Hazel Park, Oak Park, and Detroit Renaissance in there. Farmington won a not as strong district but beat Groves and Harrison to win it's first district since 1998. Livonia Stevenson had to beat Livonia Franklin, Dearborn Fordson, and Redford Thurston to get to the regional.
FAVORITE: Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit: The Cubs have a ton of talent in Elijah Collins, Zach Winston, and Jalen Thomas for coach Pat Donnelly. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit also plays in the always tough Catholic League and is it's champion. They have had a very tough district, that featured the likes of Hazel Park, Detroit Renaissance, and Oak Park. The Cubs beat Detroit Renaissance, Warren Fitzgerald, and Hazel Park to get here. There is a reason why Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit is here after winning 20 games thus far.
NEXT: Detroit Martin Luther King: The Crusaders have had to survive their very tough district at Detroit Western. Detroit Martin Luther King is very talented led by Marcus Gibbs. Gibbs transferred from Detroit Cass Tech and was very instrumental in their win against the Technicians scoring 19 points. The Crusaders also have another guard in Jordan Whitford. Whitford added 18 points and forward Rashawn Cowan who's winning put-back gave them the win against their fellow Detroit Public School League rivals. Detroit Martin Luther King has beaten Grosse Pointe South, Detroit Cass Tech, and Detroit Western to get here.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Farmington: Well there is an outside chance that the Falcons could win this regional but it looks slim. Farmington has talent in Ray Bryant (had 25 points against Groves) and Christian Smith to go along with freshmen Terran Humes and Jared Atkins for coach Terrance Porter. The Falcons had to come back from a 28-16 halftime deficit to stun Groves in the district final giving them their first district title since 1998. I wonder if Farmington knowing that they have to play at 4 PM on Monday can pull off what would be an unthinkable upset, it's possible.
PREDICTION: I think playing at 4 PM hurts Farmington because of the Detroit Public School League mandate. I expect the Falcons to compete and try to make this into a game but the talent and athleticism will be too much for them to handle. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit being at home will blow out Livonia Stevenson and then takes on Detroit Martin Luther King in the regional final where it will be the Cubs heading to the State Quarterfinals. PICK: DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT.
Region 4 @ West Bloomfield
CLARKSTON vs TROY
ADAMS vs Orchard Lake St Marys
INSIGHT: This is a regional that features four teams that have had different path's to get here. The first team is the defending Class A State Champs, another one is team that went to the State Quarterfinals last season, there is another team that has won two district titles in the last three years that has turned it's season around from 0-21 to greatness, and a team that has had a history of making deep playoff runs. Clarkston had to get by Lake Orion in the district semifinals to get back here. Troy had to get by Birmingham Brother Rice in the district semifinals to get back here. Adams had to get by Stoney Creek and Utica Eisenhower to get here. Orchard Lake St Marys had to get by Bloomfield Hills and Waterford Mott to get back to West Bloomfield.
FAVORITE: Clarkston: The Wolves return the majority of their team that won the State crown last season led by Foster Loyer, CJ Robinson, Taylor Currie, Nick Wells, Chase Wasilk, Tieler Houston, and Trysten Mysen. Loyer had 33 points in their win over Oxford and has battled a deep bruise in his left knee. Clarkston is well coached in Dan Fife and brings into the regional a 21-1 record
NEXT: Orchard Lake St Marys: The Eaglets are a loaded team led by Lorne Bowman and Caden Prieskorn. Bowman had 23 points against Waterford Mott in the district final and is well coached by third year coach Todd Covert. Orchard Lake St. Marys has played a tough schedule in the Catholic League and has won 14 games. There is a reason why they are here.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Troy: The Colts have a senior heavy team themselves led by Leon Ayers, Jason Dietz, and Danny Sully. Troy is well coached in Gary Fralick and brings a 17-5 record with two of those losses to Clarkston. It's always hard to beat a team three times in a season.
PREDICTION: I think there will be a rematch between Clarkston and Orchard Lake St Marys. The Wolves have had battles with Troy which included a 58-49 victory at Clarkston and 59-54 at Troy where Loyer had 49 points in that contest. It will be much closer this time around but I think the Wolves will win by five points. Adams is a very young team and will give the Eaglets a game but Orchard Lake St. Marys should pull through late. The Wolves and Eaglets have played once this season in Orchard Lake with Clarkston winning 56-43 back in December. It would be interesting if these two teams played again but it will be the same result and a possible clash for the Wolves with Flint Carman Ainsworth. PICK: CLARKSTON.
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Friday, March 9, 2018
Boys District Final Thoughts.
Written Friday March 9th at 9:30 PM
Here my recaps on the districts at their respective sites.
Clarkston:
Well this was expected with the Wolves dominating on their home floor against the Wildcats 77-35. Foster Loyer led the charge with 33 points giving Clarkston their 40th district championship in school history. The Wolves led 48-18 at halftime and never looked back. Clarkston will move onto face Troy at West Bloomfield. Oxford finishes the season at 8-14 but will return the majority of their team back for coach Steve Laidlaw.
Troy:
Well this was probably going to be the outcome as the Colts used the three point shot to blowout Seaholm at home 68-47. Troy had a 61-29 lead heading into the fourth quarter but the Colts got the majority of their subs in the game by that stretch. Troy will have it's third rematch with Clarkston at West Bloomfield upcoming. The Maples lose a ton of talent next season and finished the year at 9-14 for coach Greg DeGetter.
Southfield Arts and Tech:
This one was a shocker for me in the battle of Falcons. Farmington came back from a 28-16 deficit to stun Groves 57-55, giving them their second win this season over them. The blue Falcons outscored the green and gold Falcons 26-22 in the fourth quarter to pull this stunner. Farmington will move onto Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit to play Detroit Martin Luther King next. Groves finished the season at 10-12 and will return a lot of talent for coach Mark West.
Stoney Creek:
The Highlanders turned their whole season around from 0-21 last season to their first district title since 2016 with a 63-45 blowout of Utica Eisenhower. I am very happy for Adams after what they went through last season and have rebounded significantly. The Highlanders are a very young team and will get even better under coach Brad Crighton. Adams will head to West Bloomfield and play Orchard Lake St. Marys which sets up an interesting matchup of brothers between the Prieskorn's Brady and Caden.
Here my recaps on the districts at their respective sites.
Clarkston:
Well this was expected with the Wolves dominating on their home floor against the Wildcats 77-35. Foster Loyer led the charge with 33 points giving Clarkston their 40th district championship in school history. The Wolves led 48-18 at halftime and never looked back. Clarkston will move onto face Troy at West Bloomfield. Oxford finishes the season at 8-14 but will return the majority of their team back for coach Steve Laidlaw.
Troy:
Well this was probably going to be the outcome as the Colts used the three point shot to blowout Seaholm at home 68-47. Troy had a 61-29 lead heading into the fourth quarter but the Colts got the majority of their subs in the game by that stretch. Troy will have it's third rematch with Clarkston at West Bloomfield upcoming. The Maples lose a ton of talent next season and finished the year at 9-14 for coach Greg DeGetter.
Southfield Arts and Tech:
This one was a shocker for me in the battle of Falcons. Farmington came back from a 28-16 deficit to stun Groves 57-55, giving them their second win this season over them. The blue Falcons outscored the green and gold Falcons 26-22 in the fourth quarter to pull this stunner. Farmington will move onto Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit to play Detroit Martin Luther King next. Groves finished the season at 10-12 and will return a lot of talent for coach Mark West.
Stoney Creek:
The Highlanders turned their whole season around from 0-21 last season to their first district title since 2016 with a 63-45 blowout of Utica Eisenhower. I am very happy for Adams after what they went through last season and have rebounded significantly. The Highlanders are a very young team and will get even better under coach Brad Crighton. Adams will head to West Bloomfield and play Orchard Lake St. Marys which sets up an interesting matchup of brothers between the Prieskorn's Brady and Caden.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
Clarkston Girls Regional and Boys District Thoughts.
Written Thursday March 8th at 10:30 PM
Girls
Well congrats are in order to Kayla Luchenbach, Molly Nicholson, Maddie Beck, Kianna Ayotte, Taylor Heaten, and the rest of the Wolves for dominating Waterford Kettering 50-33 in the regional final at West Bloomfield.
Clarkston was dominant especially Luchenbach. Luchenbach got the Captains into foul trouble and finished with 23 points, five rebounds, and five blocks while Maddie Beck added 12 points and Molly Nicholson added 11 points. Waterford Kettering which has beaten the Wolves two straight seasons in the districts so this has to be sweet for them.
However a tougher challenge awaits Clarkston in the State Quarterfinals at Grand Blanc with that being Saginaw Heritage.
The Hawks come into the State Quarterfinal matchup ranked third in the State at 24-1 with their only loss being in four overtimes to Detroit Edison. They are also Saginaw Valley League Champs and have wins over powerhouses Midland Dow and Flint Carman Ainsworth.
Saginaw Heritage whom is 66-5 in the last three seasons features a ton of talent in juniors Shrine Strickland-Gills and Moria Joiner. Joiner is a very talented point guard whom had 15 points against Marquette. She will penetrate and shoot threes when need too for coach Vonnie DeLong. Strickland-Gills is a solid inside out player that can score points in many different ways, she can rebound and shoot the ball as well. The Hawks also have three very good players that start as well in seniors Jessie Bicknell, Maddie Camp, and junior Mallory McCartney. McCartney is a very good three point shooter while Camp is an undersized forward whom can score, and Bicknell is an energy player that can score or defend when need too.
The Hawks used a 21-0 run in the second quarter which led to Saginaw Heritage dominating the Cavaliers 63-40 in the regional final earning their trip to the State Quarterfinals. Joiner had 22 points, Bicknell had 12 points, McCartney had 11 points, Strickland-Gills had nine, and Camp added six points against Flint Carman Ainsworth.
It will be a tough matchup for the Wolves against Saginaw Heritage, no doubt about it in Grand Blanc. The Hawks are usually a man defense but went to a two-three zone against Flint Carman Ainsworth in their regional final matchup.
The two interesting matchups that I'm keeping an eye on will be Luchenbach against Strickland-Gills in the post and Beck against Joiner in the battle of the point guards.
It will also be an interesting coaching matchup as well with DeLong against Christine Rogers. Talent clearly favors Saginaw Heritage but Clarkston has their fair share of talent with Beck, Nicholson, Heaten, Luchenbach, and Ayotte. If the Wolves can get a great start and get Joiner, Strickland-Gills, Bicknell, and McCartney into foul trouble then it could be interesting.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this matchup.
Boys
Lets look at Wednesday's district recap.
Clarkston:
I thought Lake Orion played a very good game against the top team in the State in Clarkston even though the Wolves won 62-50. The Dragons played with them until the very end. Hadn't been for the return of Foster Loyer from an knee injury and a 19-5 second quarter then Lake Orion would have pulled off the upset. The Dragons only turned the ball over eight times against the senior heavy Wolves and outscored Clarkston 14-9 in the first quarter. Lake Orion finished the season at 17-4 sharing the Blue crown and have a ton of talent coming back next season for coach Jim Manzo.
The Wildcats used a three point barrage against the Holly Bronchos winning 55-25 and by going 11 for 27 from three point range. Oxford shut down Noah Bayliss whom was the Flint Metro League's leading scorer to four points. Nolan Harding had 21 points on seven for 14 shooting for the Wildcats. I wasn't surprised that Oxford won this game but was shocked by a blowout. It's going to be a tough chore for the Wildcats as they have Clarkston on Friday.
Detroit Renaissance:
The Knights lost a heartbreaker to the hosts on Wednesday night in overtime 58-55. Oak Park and Detroit Renaissance went back and fourth but at the end of the day it was the Phoenix that pulled through on their home court. The Knights finished the season at 16-4 and will return a ton of talent next season for coach Bobby Thompson.
I was surprised when I looked at the Vikings score with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit with that score being 57-48 in favor of the Cubs. I thought the big reason was Jalen Thomas and he made an impact. Thomas didn't play in the first meeting with Hazel Park after he was still in Nevada but transferred and played in the second semester. The Vikings lose a ton of seniors from a team that finished 18-3 for coach Brendan Barrett.
Stoney Creek:
The Highlanders look like they could be on the verge of turning an 0-21 season into a possible district title but beating Stoney Creek was a big first step toward that goal as Adams beat the Cougars 52-45 on Wednesday night. The Highlanders are a very young team but they did beat Stoney Creek three times this season. Adams will meet Utica Eisenhower on Friday. The Cougars lose a ton of talent next season for coach Steve Norgrove finishing the season at 10-12.
This was my biggest upset of the night was when Utica Eisenhower, a team that 6-14 coming into the game and finished last in the Macomb Area Red Division stunned Rochester 72-63. I knew if their was a game where the Falcons needed to play defense it was this game. Rochester at times has really struggled on defense, especially in Blue play and it showed here. The Falcons were up 22-10 after the first quarter but the Eagles chipped away eventually trailed by two at halftime (31-29 and 51-49 after three quarters.) Utica Eisenhower would outscore Rochester 21-12 and in the last 3:30 of the game 16-4 in the fourth quarter to pull off the stunning upset. The Falcons finished at 16-5, sharing the Blue this year. Rochester will lose a ton of talent for coach Vance Kirkwood next season.
Southfield Arts and Tech:
I wasn't really surprised by the outcome of this game as this was the likely outcome. Farmington used a strong second half, outscoring Harrison 25-8 leading themselves to a 66-31 blowout of the Hawks. The Falcons beat Harrison three times this season. Farmington was led by their freshman duo of Jared Atkins and Terron Humes whom combined for 34 of the team's 66 points. The Falcons will move onto meet Groves on Friday. The Hawks finished the season at 5-16 and will have one more season as a school for coach Jareel Hogan.
If you love defense like I always do then you'll love this game. North Farmington and Groves was a nail bitter that went into double overtime with the Falcons surviving 35-33 on a buzzer beating basket from Spencer Tredwell. In a ugly game that was tied at 11 at one point and then at 24 and then 29 both defenses were on full display. The Raiders had a chance to win it with two free throws but could not hit them in the first overtime. North Farmington really struggled this season finishing at 9-13 for coach Todd Negoshian and they lose a ton of talent. Groves will meet Farmington on Friday.
Troy:
I was surprised that the Colts had trouble with Birmingham Brother Rice at home but Leon Ayers really bailed them out in a 61-49 win over the Warriors. Troy with seven seniors really needs to play better if they want to move onto the next round.
I wasn't surprised Seaholm blew out Royal Oak 62-36 on Wednesday night. The Maples are making up for a tough season in the White by beating a senior heavy Troy Athens team on Monday and now a Ravens team that had it's ups and downs for coach Aaron Smith. Royal Oak should be better next season after taking a bit of a setback this season finishing 8-13. Seaholm will rematch Troy on Friday night in a interesting matchup.
Birmingham Detroit Country Day:
This was one of the upsets I didn't expect to happen but it did with Ferndale losing 58-45 to Clawson. The Trojans clearly outplayed the Eagles. Clawson has had a down season, it's possible that coach Tom Staten's team really underestimated the Trojans. Also give credit to Clawson and their coach Dwayne Graves. Graves is very familiar with the OAA being at Bloomfield Hills Lahser and at Bloomfield Hills, leading them to the State Final. He does know Staten from his days at Bloomfield Hills Lahser which did help. Ferndale finished the season at 6-14 but the Eagles return a lot of talent that will have experience next season.
West Bloomfield:
I was surprised that Waterford Mott laid a beatdown to Avondale 79-64. The Corsairs outscored the Yellow Jackets 33-21 to close out the game. Waterford Mott also shut down Martone Cole, whom struggled. The Yellow Jackets do return a ton of talent for next season for coach Tim Morton. Avondale finished the season at 12-9.
I wasn't surprised Bloomfield Hills got destroyed by Orchard Lake St. Marys 53-28. The Blackhawks had no answer for the firepower of the Eaglets. Bloomfield Hills finishes the season at 7-15 on the year but will have the memory of upsetting West Bloomfield in the district for coach Phil Kurjian.
Girls
Well congrats are in order to Kayla Luchenbach, Molly Nicholson, Maddie Beck, Kianna Ayotte, Taylor Heaten, and the rest of the Wolves for dominating Waterford Kettering 50-33 in the regional final at West Bloomfield.
Clarkston was dominant especially Luchenbach. Luchenbach got the Captains into foul trouble and finished with 23 points, five rebounds, and five blocks while Maddie Beck added 12 points and Molly Nicholson added 11 points. Waterford Kettering which has beaten the Wolves two straight seasons in the districts so this has to be sweet for them.
However a tougher challenge awaits Clarkston in the State Quarterfinals at Grand Blanc with that being Saginaw Heritage.
The Hawks come into the State Quarterfinal matchup ranked third in the State at 24-1 with their only loss being in four overtimes to Detroit Edison. They are also Saginaw Valley League Champs and have wins over powerhouses Midland Dow and Flint Carman Ainsworth.
Saginaw Heritage whom is 66-5 in the last three seasons features a ton of talent in juniors Shrine Strickland-Gills and Moria Joiner. Joiner is a very talented point guard whom had 15 points against Marquette. She will penetrate and shoot threes when need too for coach Vonnie DeLong. Strickland-Gills is a solid inside out player that can score points in many different ways, she can rebound and shoot the ball as well. The Hawks also have three very good players that start as well in seniors Jessie Bicknell, Maddie Camp, and junior Mallory McCartney. McCartney is a very good three point shooter while Camp is an undersized forward whom can score, and Bicknell is an energy player that can score or defend when need too.
The Hawks used a 21-0 run in the second quarter which led to Saginaw Heritage dominating the Cavaliers 63-40 in the regional final earning their trip to the State Quarterfinals. Joiner had 22 points, Bicknell had 12 points, McCartney had 11 points, Strickland-Gills had nine, and Camp added six points against Flint Carman Ainsworth.
It will be a tough matchup for the Wolves against Saginaw Heritage, no doubt about it in Grand Blanc. The Hawks are usually a man defense but went to a two-three zone against Flint Carman Ainsworth in their regional final matchup.
The two interesting matchups that I'm keeping an eye on will be Luchenbach against Strickland-Gills in the post and Beck against Joiner in the battle of the point guards.
It will also be an interesting coaching matchup as well with DeLong against Christine Rogers. Talent clearly favors Saginaw Heritage but Clarkston has their fair share of talent with Beck, Nicholson, Heaten, Luchenbach, and Ayotte. If the Wolves can get a great start and get Joiner, Strickland-Gills, Bicknell, and McCartney into foul trouble then it could be interesting.
Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this matchup.
Boys
Lets look at Wednesday's district recap.
Clarkston:
I thought Lake Orion played a very good game against the top team in the State in Clarkston even though the Wolves won 62-50. The Dragons played with them until the very end. Hadn't been for the return of Foster Loyer from an knee injury and a 19-5 second quarter then Lake Orion would have pulled off the upset. The Dragons only turned the ball over eight times against the senior heavy Wolves and outscored Clarkston 14-9 in the first quarter. Lake Orion finished the season at 17-4 sharing the Blue crown and have a ton of talent coming back next season for coach Jim Manzo.
The Wildcats used a three point barrage against the Holly Bronchos winning 55-25 and by going 11 for 27 from three point range. Oxford shut down Noah Bayliss whom was the Flint Metro League's leading scorer to four points. Nolan Harding had 21 points on seven for 14 shooting for the Wildcats. I wasn't surprised that Oxford won this game but was shocked by a blowout. It's going to be a tough chore for the Wildcats as they have Clarkston on Friday.
Detroit Renaissance:
The Knights lost a heartbreaker to the hosts on Wednesday night in overtime 58-55. Oak Park and Detroit Renaissance went back and fourth but at the end of the day it was the Phoenix that pulled through on their home court. The Knights finished the season at 16-4 and will return a ton of talent next season for coach Bobby Thompson.
I was surprised when I looked at the Vikings score with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit with that score being 57-48 in favor of the Cubs. I thought the big reason was Jalen Thomas and he made an impact. Thomas didn't play in the first meeting with Hazel Park after he was still in Nevada but transferred and played in the second semester. The Vikings lose a ton of seniors from a team that finished 18-3 for coach Brendan Barrett.
Stoney Creek:
The Highlanders look like they could be on the verge of turning an 0-21 season into a possible district title but beating Stoney Creek was a big first step toward that goal as Adams beat the Cougars 52-45 on Wednesday night. The Highlanders are a very young team but they did beat Stoney Creek three times this season. Adams will meet Utica Eisenhower on Friday. The Cougars lose a ton of talent next season for coach Steve Norgrove finishing the season at 10-12.
This was my biggest upset of the night was when Utica Eisenhower, a team that 6-14 coming into the game and finished last in the Macomb Area Red Division stunned Rochester 72-63. I knew if their was a game where the Falcons needed to play defense it was this game. Rochester at times has really struggled on defense, especially in Blue play and it showed here. The Falcons were up 22-10 after the first quarter but the Eagles chipped away eventually trailed by two at halftime (31-29 and 51-49 after three quarters.) Utica Eisenhower would outscore Rochester 21-12 and in the last 3:30 of the game 16-4 in the fourth quarter to pull off the stunning upset. The Falcons finished at 16-5, sharing the Blue this year. Rochester will lose a ton of talent for coach Vance Kirkwood next season.
Southfield Arts and Tech:
I wasn't really surprised by the outcome of this game as this was the likely outcome. Farmington used a strong second half, outscoring Harrison 25-8 leading themselves to a 66-31 blowout of the Hawks. The Falcons beat Harrison three times this season. Farmington was led by their freshman duo of Jared Atkins and Terron Humes whom combined for 34 of the team's 66 points. The Falcons will move onto meet Groves on Friday. The Hawks finished the season at 5-16 and will have one more season as a school for coach Jareel Hogan.
If you love defense like I always do then you'll love this game. North Farmington and Groves was a nail bitter that went into double overtime with the Falcons surviving 35-33 on a buzzer beating basket from Spencer Tredwell. In a ugly game that was tied at 11 at one point and then at 24 and then 29 both defenses were on full display. The Raiders had a chance to win it with two free throws but could not hit them in the first overtime. North Farmington really struggled this season finishing at 9-13 for coach Todd Negoshian and they lose a ton of talent. Groves will meet Farmington on Friday.
Troy:
I was surprised that the Colts had trouble with Birmingham Brother Rice at home but Leon Ayers really bailed them out in a 61-49 win over the Warriors. Troy with seven seniors really needs to play better if they want to move onto the next round.
I wasn't surprised Seaholm blew out Royal Oak 62-36 on Wednesday night. The Maples are making up for a tough season in the White by beating a senior heavy Troy Athens team on Monday and now a Ravens team that had it's ups and downs for coach Aaron Smith. Royal Oak should be better next season after taking a bit of a setback this season finishing 8-13. Seaholm will rematch Troy on Friday night in a interesting matchup.
Birmingham Detroit Country Day:
This was one of the upsets I didn't expect to happen but it did with Ferndale losing 58-45 to Clawson. The Trojans clearly outplayed the Eagles. Clawson has had a down season, it's possible that coach Tom Staten's team really underestimated the Trojans. Also give credit to Clawson and their coach Dwayne Graves. Graves is very familiar with the OAA being at Bloomfield Hills Lahser and at Bloomfield Hills, leading them to the State Final. He does know Staten from his days at Bloomfield Hills Lahser which did help. Ferndale finished the season at 6-14 but the Eagles return a lot of talent that will have experience next season.
West Bloomfield:
I was surprised that Waterford Mott laid a beatdown to Avondale 79-64. The Corsairs outscored the Yellow Jackets 33-21 to close out the game. Waterford Mott also shut down Martone Cole, whom struggled. The Yellow Jackets do return a ton of talent for next season for coach Tim Morton. Avondale finished the season at 12-9.
I wasn't surprised Bloomfield Hills got destroyed by Orchard Lake St. Marys 53-28. The Blackhawks had no answer for the firepower of the Eaglets. Bloomfield Hills finishes the season at 7-15 on the year but will have the memory of upsetting West Bloomfield in the district for coach Phil Kurjian.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Pre-District Boys and Regional Girls Thoughts.
Written Tuesday Match 6th at 11:00 PM
Hello all, here are my thoughts heading into the Boys Pre-Districts and Girls Regional thoughts.
Boys.
I wasn't surprised that Berkley and Pontiac lost to State ranked powers on Monday night. The Bears lost 62-41 to Detroit Renaissance on their home floor. Berkley has lost 11 of 12 to close out the season. The Bears have to address some things in the program, they lose nine seniors and have a strong freshman class coming. The Phoenix whom lost 68-45 to New Haven at Pontiac Notre Dame Prepatory have a young nucleus coming back led by the Cole brothers and Dominique Stovall. Expect Pontiac to be back to where they are next season.
Avondale won a 70-46 blowout over Waterford Kettering behind Martone Cole's 21 points. The Yellow Jackets have a big game awaiting them on Wednesday against Waterford Mott at West Bloomfield.
North Farmington edged Southfield Arts and Tech 68-40 and will play on Wednesday against Groves at Southfield Arts and Tech. Stoney Creek had no problem with Romeo 49-37 behind 21 points from Nate Davis. The Cougars will host Adams on Wednesday.
The big upsets around the league happened to be at West Bloomfield and Troy. Troy Athens finished the season losing three of four including a 58-48 loss to Seaholm. Cooper Mixon whom didn't play in both meetings had 24 points in the game. The Red Hawks lose 10 seniors from an experienced squad next season. The Maples will move on to play Royal Oak on Wednesday at Troy. Meanwhile, West Bloomfield whom hasn't had the greatest of seasons despite being in the Final Four last season was upset at home by Bloomfield Hills 44-40. The Blackhawks used timely three point shooting from Tyler Canifield in the game. Also the Lakers beat Bloomfield Hills twice this season including a 28 point beatdown earlier in the season. The Blackhawks will play Orchard Lake St. Marys at West Bloomfield on Wednesday.
Girls.
I was surprised by the score of the Southfield Arts and Tech and Detroit Martin Luther King game 50-37 at home on Tuesday night. The Warriors let Jordan Lewis score 21 points and basically was outplayed by the Crusaders in the second half. Mariah Mitchell added 10 points for Detroit Martin Luther King. Alexis Johnson led Southfield Arts and Tech with 17 points while Cheyenne McEvans and D'Layna Holliman combined for 18 points and Shawyna Manning added two points in defeat. The Warriors will have Johnson and McEvans coming back next season but this one will sting Southfield Arts and Tech for sure in the offseason.
The Wolves got a measure of revenge against the Catholic League as they eliminated Birmingham Marian 44-34 on Tuesday night at West Bloomfield. Clarkston outscored the Mustangs 18-11 in the fourth, which included a 13-0 run in the process. Maddie Beck led the Wolves with 23 points, seven rebounds, and six steals while Kayla Luchenbach and Molly Nicholson combined for 19 points. The Wolves limited Olivia Moore to 11 points on the night despite Birmingham Marian only losing three seniors, they will be loaded next season. Clarkston will play Waterford Kettering on Thursday at West Bloomfield. The Captains have had the Wolves number winning two straight years in districts but you got to wonder, especially Luchenbach, whom has been shut down by coach Scott Woodhull's team the last two seasons. It will be interesting to see what happens on Thursday night.
Hello all, here are my thoughts heading into the Boys Pre-Districts and Girls Regional thoughts.
Boys.
I wasn't surprised that Berkley and Pontiac lost to State ranked powers on Monday night. The Bears lost 62-41 to Detroit Renaissance on their home floor. Berkley has lost 11 of 12 to close out the season. The Bears have to address some things in the program, they lose nine seniors and have a strong freshman class coming. The Phoenix whom lost 68-45 to New Haven at Pontiac Notre Dame Prepatory have a young nucleus coming back led by the Cole brothers and Dominique Stovall. Expect Pontiac to be back to where they are next season.
Avondale won a 70-46 blowout over Waterford Kettering behind Martone Cole's 21 points. The Yellow Jackets have a big game awaiting them on Wednesday against Waterford Mott at West Bloomfield.
North Farmington edged Southfield Arts and Tech 68-40 and will play on Wednesday against Groves at Southfield Arts and Tech. Stoney Creek had no problem with Romeo 49-37 behind 21 points from Nate Davis. The Cougars will host Adams on Wednesday.
The big upsets around the league happened to be at West Bloomfield and Troy. Troy Athens finished the season losing three of four including a 58-48 loss to Seaholm. Cooper Mixon whom didn't play in both meetings had 24 points in the game. The Red Hawks lose 10 seniors from an experienced squad next season. The Maples will move on to play Royal Oak on Wednesday at Troy. Meanwhile, West Bloomfield whom hasn't had the greatest of seasons despite being in the Final Four last season was upset at home by Bloomfield Hills 44-40. The Blackhawks used timely three point shooting from Tyler Canifield in the game. Also the Lakers beat Bloomfield Hills twice this season including a 28 point beatdown earlier in the season. The Blackhawks will play Orchard Lake St. Marys at West Bloomfield on Wednesday.
Girls.
I was surprised by the score of the Southfield Arts and Tech and Detroit Martin Luther King game 50-37 at home on Tuesday night. The Warriors let Jordan Lewis score 21 points and basically was outplayed by the Crusaders in the second half. Mariah Mitchell added 10 points for Detroit Martin Luther King. Alexis Johnson led Southfield Arts and Tech with 17 points while Cheyenne McEvans and D'Layna Holliman combined for 18 points and Shawyna Manning added two points in defeat. The Warriors will have Johnson and McEvans coming back next season but this one will sting Southfield Arts and Tech for sure in the offseason.
The Wolves got a measure of revenge against the Catholic League as they eliminated Birmingham Marian 44-34 on Tuesday night at West Bloomfield. Clarkston outscored the Mustangs 18-11 in the fourth, which included a 13-0 run in the process. Maddie Beck led the Wolves with 23 points, seven rebounds, and six steals while Kayla Luchenbach and Molly Nicholson combined for 19 points. The Wolves limited Olivia Moore to 11 points on the night despite Birmingham Marian only losing three seniors, they will be loaded next season. Clarkston will play Waterford Kettering on Thursday at West Bloomfield. The Captains have had the Wolves number winning two straight years in districts but you got to wonder, especially Luchenbach, whom has been shut down by coach Scott Woodhull's team the last two seasons. It will be interesting to see what happens on Thursday night.
Sunday, March 4, 2018
Final Boys Basketball Top 23.
Written Sunday March 4th at 10:45 AM
Hello to all, I apologize for not having a Girls Basketball Final Top 22 so anyway here is the final Top 23 for Boys Basketball.
1. Clarkston (19-1): Wolves won by 10 over Hazel Park giving them the Red outright and without Foster Loyer. Loyer will seek a second opinion on Monday to see if he can play or not in districts which are at home.
2. Oak Park (16-3): Knights have won 15 straight games since starting 1-3 giving them the White crown. A tough district at Detroit Renaissance looms for Oak Park.
3. Troy (15-5): Colts are starting to get hot at the right time heading into districts which are being held at home.
4. Orion (17-3): Dragons have won 11 of it's last 12 games leading them to a share of the Blue title. A tough matchup awaits at Clarkston on Wednesday.
5. Hazel Park (18-2): Wondering where the Vikings heads are at after losing to Clarkston??? Need to bounce back quick which a rematch with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit looming at Detroit Renaissance on Wednesday.
6. Rochester (16-4): Falcons had to survive Harrison on it's Senior Night giving them a share of the Blue title. Wonder if that might be an omen of things to come at Stoney Creek when they play Utica Eisenhower.
7. West Bloomfield (11-9): Lakers tough schedule has helped them get ready for this point. They host districts but have a likely clash with Orchard Lake St. Marys on Wednesday, oh boy.
8. Troy Athens (15-5): Red Hawks look vulnerable after losing two out of three. Troy Athens better be careful of Seaholm at Troy on Monday.
9. Farmington (13-6): Falcons have won five of six since losing to Pontiac. Farmington looks prime to make a playoff run which starts on Monday at Southfield Arts and Tech against Harrison.
10. Adams (12-8): The young Highlanders have been up and down as of late but give coach Brad Crighton credit for turning this team around so quickly. Now they await either Stoney Creek or Romeo on Wednesday.
11. Avondale (11-9): Yellow Jackets have won three of four and could be a darkhorse candidate if they can get by Waterford Mott again on Wednesday but first it's Waterford Kettering at West Bloomfield.
12. Stoney Creek (9-11): Cougars have lost four straight heading into districts, which are at home but the problem for Stoney Creek is Romeo is not an easy game for them.
13. Groves (9-11): Falcons have lost four of six which not a good omen heading into districts at Southfield Arts and Tech. Groves will await the winner of North Farmington/Southfield Arts and Tech on Wednesday.
14. Oxford (7-13): Wildcats have won two of three to close out the regular season. Now they are at Clarkston for districts awaiting the winner of Brandon and Holly on Wednesday.
15. Seaholm (7-13): Maples have been hot and cold lately but that could all change on Monday when they are at Troy for districts against Troy Athens.
16. North Farmington (8-12): Raiders have been playing 500 ball lately. Not a good sign either when you lose twice to Bloomfield Hills. North Farmington will be a team to watch in the districts at Southfield Arts and Tech.
17. Royal Oak (8-12): Ravens have lost three straight heading into districts. That's not a good sign heading into districts especially when they are at Troy.
18. Bloomfield Hills (6-14): Blackhawks have won two straight heading into districts but the bad news for Bloomfield Hills is they will have to play at West Bloomfield on Monday.
19. Southfield Arts and Tech (4-16): Warriors picked up a big win over Dearborn Gabriel Richard. Cameron McEvans will need to have another few big games if Southfield Arts and Tech wants to win their district which is at home.
20. Ferndale (6-13): Eagles have really been struggling since beating Berkley in that wild and crazy game. Thankfully for them they should get their groove a bit back until they meet Birmingham Detroit Country Day on Friday.
21. Pontiac (5-14): It's going to be a tough matchup for the Phoenix on Monday at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep with New Haven and Romeo Weems.
22. Berkley (10-10): Bears have lost 10 of it's last 11 games and have a tough one on Monday with Detroit Renaissance, oh boy.
23. Harrison (5-15): Hawks have been playing better but have lost six straight heading into districts. Harrison will play on Wednesday at Southfield Arts and Tech against Farmington.
Hello to all, I apologize for not having a Girls Basketball Final Top 22 so anyway here is the final Top 23 for Boys Basketball.
1. Clarkston (19-1): Wolves won by 10 over Hazel Park giving them the Red outright and without Foster Loyer. Loyer will seek a second opinion on Monday to see if he can play or not in districts which are at home.
2. Oak Park (16-3): Knights have won 15 straight games since starting 1-3 giving them the White crown. A tough district at Detroit Renaissance looms for Oak Park.
3. Troy (15-5): Colts are starting to get hot at the right time heading into districts which are being held at home.
4. Orion (17-3): Dragons have won 11 of it's last 12 games leading them to a share of the Blue title. A tough matchup awaits at Clarkston on Wednesday.
5. Hazel Park (18-2): Wondering where the Vikings heads are at after losing to Clarkston??? Need to bounce back quick which a rematch with Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit looming at Detroit Renaissance on Wednesday.
6. Rochester (16-4): Falcons had to survive Harrison on it's Senior Night giving them a share of the Blue title. Wonder if that might be an omen of things to come at Stoney Creek when they play Utica Eisenhower.
7. West Bloomfield (11-9): Lakers tough schedule has helped them get ready for this point. They host districts but have a likely clash with Orchard Lake St. Marys on Wednesday, oh boy.
8. Troy Athens (15-5): Red Hawks look vulnerable after losing two out of three. Troy Athens better be careful of Seaholm at Troy on Monday.
9. Farmington (13-6): Falcons have won five of six since losing to Pontiac. Farmington looks prime to make a playoff run which starts on Monday at Southfield Arts and Tech against Harrison.
10. Adams (12-8): The young Highlanders have been up and down as of late but give coach Brad Crighton credit for turning this team around so quickly. Now they await either Stoney Creek or Romeo on Wednesday.
11. Avondale (11-9): Yellow Jackets have won three of four and could be a darkhorse candidate if they can get by Waterford Mott again on Wednesday but first it's Waterford Kettering at West Bloomfield.
12. Stoney Creek (9-11): Cougars have lost four straight heading into districts, which are at home but the problem for Stoney Creek is Romeo is not an easy game for them.
13. Groves (9-11): Falcons have lost four of six which not a good omen heading into districts at Southfield Arts and Tech. Groves will await the winner of North Farmington/Southfield Arts and Tech on Wednesday.
14. Oxford (7-13): Wildcats have won two of three to close out the regular season. Now they are at Clarkston for districts awaiting the winner of Brandon and Holly on Wednesday.
15. Seaholm (7-13): Maples have been hot and cold lately but that could all change on Monday when they are at Troy for districts against Troy Athens.
16. North Farmington (8-12): Raiders have been playing 500 ball lately. Not a good sign either when you lose twice to Bloomfield Hills. North Farmington will be a team to watch in the districts at Southfield Arts and Tech.
17. Royal Oak (8-12): Ravens have lost three straight heading into districts. That's not a good sign heading into districts especially when they are at Troy.
18. Bloomfield Hills (6-14): Blackhawks have won two straight heading into districts but the bad news for Bloomfield Hills is they will have to play at West Bloomfield on Monday.
19. Southfield Arts and Tech (4-16): Warriors picked up a big win over Dearborn Gabriel Richard. Cameron McEvans will need to have another few big games if Southfield Arts and Tech wants to win their district which is at home.
20. Ferndale (6-13): Eagles have really been struggling since beating Berkley in that wild and crazy game. Thankfully for them they should get their groove a bit back until they meet Birmingham Detroit Country Day on Friday.
21. Pontiac (5-14): It's going to be a tough matchup for the Phoenix on Monday at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep with New Haven and Romeo Weems.
22. Berkley (10-10): Bears have lost 10 of it's last 11 games and have a tough one on Monday with Detroit Renaissance, oh boy.
23. Harrison (5-15): Hawks have been playing better but have lost six straight heading into districts. Harrison will play on Wednesday at Southfield Arts and Tech against Farmington.
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Girls Basketball Regional Preview.
Written Saturday March 3rd at 11:00 AM
Hello all, there are two teams left in the OAA for Girls Basketball. Here is my insight and projections heading into both Regional at Southfield Arts and Tech and at West Bloomfield.
Region 6 @ Southfield Arts and Tech
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs Detroit Martin Luther King
Detroit Renaissance vs Dearborn Fordson
INSIGHT: This will be an interesting regional but what there is a host school in Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors won a very tough district that had Farmington, Groves, North Farmington, and Farmington Hills Mercy at Farmington Hills Mercy by defeating the Marlins. Detroit Martin Luther King had a tough district in which featured Detroit Cass Tech and Grosse Points South. Dearborn Fordson has won 15 straight games including a nail bitter over Livonia Stevenson 49-41 to get here. The Tractors are led by Rena Elhusseini and Kiki Darwiche, whom both were huge in their win against the Spartans. Detroit Renaissance won a fairly easy district to get here.
FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors are now home after winning a tough district at Farmington Hills Mercy 49-45 behind 26 points from Alexis Johnson. Southfield Arts and Tech is not a one player team as they have D'Layna Holliman and Cheyenne McEvans whom combined for 21 points against the Marlins. That's not mentioning that the Warriors are well coached as well led by Michelle Marshall.
NEXT: Detroit Martin Luther King: The Crusaders are very athletic and well coached for William Willard. Detroit Martin Luther King had to beat Detroit Cass Tech in a tough district final 55-41 behind 23 points and nine rebounds from Mariah Mitchell along with 11 points and 10 rebounds from Jordan Lewis. Dejanine Williams had nine points, seven assists, and five steals, and Diamond Cannon had eight points and nine rebounds against the Technicians. The Crusaders will present a dangerous challenge to the Warriors.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Detroit Renaissance: The Phoenix are a young team but they are led by Kailee Davis whom had 17 points against Berkley. Detroit Renaissance has a nice draw pending if they can get past Dearborn Fordson.
PREDICTION: This is an interesting regional to say the least on the corner of Lahser and 10 Mile. It will be a close matchup between Southfield Arts and Tech and Detroit Martin Luther King but the Warriors pull through. I think Dearborn Fordson upsets Detroit Renaissance because of Elhusseini and Darwiche but end of the day, the hosts move to the quarterfinal. PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH.
Region 4 @ West Bloomfield
CLARKSTON vs Birmingham Marian
Waterford Kettering vs Utica Eisenhower
INSIGHT: This will be an interesting regional. Birmingham Marian won a tough matchup over Royal Oak 39-25. Clarkston has a senior experience team that basically shut out Holly for three quarters in their district final matchup at home. Waterford Kettering had to go through a very tough Bloomfield Hills team in their place. Utica Eisenhower is fresh off winning it's first district since 2003 features Lauren DeBeau, Paige Montreuli, and Marylin Kostnik for coach Mike Satawa's team.
FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering: The Captains have had Clarkston's number in the last two years. Waterford Kettering is led by Marissa Brady, Clare Broughan, Izzy Dugal, and Ashley Watson for coach Scott Woodhall. The Captains are also known for the "defense department" and they could very well do that in this regional.
NEXT: Clarkston: The Wolves bring a ton of experience into this regional led by Kayla Luchenbach, Molly Nicholson, Kianna Anyotte, Taylor Heaten, and Maddie Beck. Clarkston made Holly look bad, shutting them out for three quarters and shutting down Rebecca Fugate in the process. It won't be easy this time around for coach Christine Rogers team when they play Birmingham Marian because the Mustangs feature a scorer in Moore and have other players that can score as well.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Birmingham Marian: The Mustangs are a well coached team under Mary Ciceronee. Birmingham Marian features Olivia Moore. Moore had 17 points against Royal Oak in the district final. Also the Mustangs feature Uche Ike and Megan Kraus whom are capable of having big games.
PREDICTION: I think the Wolves size will be too much for Birmingham Marian and Moore gets shut down by Aynotte. Clarkston does have enough size to contest with Ike in the post and will give the Mustangs problems. I think Waterford Kettering beats Utica Eisenhower pretty handily and we see Clarkston/Waterford Kettering Round Three. Until the Wolves can solve their Captains problem, its hard to pick them to move on. PICK: WATERFORD KETTERING.
Hello all, there are two teams left in the OAA for Girls Basketball. Here is my insight and projections heading into both Regional at Southfield Arts and Tech and at West Bloomfield.
Region 6 @ Southfield Arts and Tech
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH vs Detroit Martin Luther King
Detroit Renaissance vs Dearborn Fordson
INSIGHT: This will be an interesting regional but what there is a host school in Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors won a very tough district that had Farmington, Groves, North Farmington, and Farmington Hills Mercy at Farmington Hills Mercy by defeating the Marlins. Detroit Martin Luther King had a tough district in which featured Detroit Cass Tech and Grosse Points South. Dearborn Fordson has won 15 straight games including a nail bitter over Livonia Stevenson 49-41 to get here. The Tractors are led by Rena Elhusseini and Kiki Darwiche, whom both were huge in their win against the Spartans. Detroit Renaissance won a fairly easy district to get here.
FAVORITE: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors are now home after winning a tough district at Farmington Hills Mercy 49-45 behind 26 points from Alexis Johnson. Southfield Arts and Tech is not a one player team as they have D'Layna Holliman and Cheyenne McEvans whom combined for 21 points against the Marlins. That's not mentioning that the Warriors are well coached as well led by Michelle Marshall.
NEXT: Detroit Martin Luther King: The Crusaders are very athletic and well coached for William Willard. Detroit Martin Luther King had to beat Detroit Cass Tech in a tough district final 55-41 behind 23 points and nine rebounds from Mariah Mitchell along with 11 points and 10 rebounds from Jordan Lewis. Dejanine Williams had nine points, seven assists, and five steals, and Diamond Cannon had eight points and nine rebounds against the Technicians. The Crusaders will present a dangerous challenge to the Warriors.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Detroit Renaissance: The Phoenix are a young team but they are led by Kailee Davis whom had 17 points against Berkley. Detroit Renaissance has a nice draw pending if they can get past Dearborn Fordson.
PREDICTION: This is an interesting regional to say the least on the corner of Lahser and 10 Mile. It will be a close matchup between Southfield Arts and Tech and Detroit Martin Luther King but the Warriors pull through. I think Dearborn Fordson upsets Detroit Renaissance because of Elhusseini and Darwiche but end of the day, the hosts move to the quarterfinal. PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH.
Region 4 @ West Bloomfield
CLARKSTON vs Birmingham Marian
Waterford Kettering vs Utica Eisenhower
INSIGHT: This will be an interesting regional. Birmingham Marian won a tough matchup over Royal Oak 39-25. Clarkston has a senior experience team that basically shut out Holly for three quarters in their district final matchup at home. Waterford Kettering had to go through a very tough Bloomfield Hills team in their place. Utica Eisenhower is fresh off winning it's first district since 2003 features Lauren DeBeau, Paige Montreuli, and Marylin Kostnik for coach Mike Satawa's team.
FAVORITE: Waterford Kettering: The Captains have had Clarkston's number in the last two years. Waterford Kettering is led by Marissa Brady, Clare Broughan, Izzy Dugal, and Ashley Watson for coach Scott Woodhall. The Captains are also known for the "defense department" and they could very well do that in this regional.
NEXT: Clarkston: The Wolves bring a ton of experience into this regional led by Kayla Luchenbach, Molly Nicholson, Kianna Anyotte, Taylor Heaten, and Maddie Beck. Clarkston made Holly look bad, shutting them out for three quarters and shutting down Rebecca Fugate in the process. It won't be easy this time around for coach Christine Rogers team when they play Birmingham Marian because the Mustangs feature a scorer in Moore and have other players that can score as well.
WHO PLAYS SPOILER: Birmingham Marian: The Mustangs are a well coached team under Mary Ciceronee. Birmingham Marian features Olivia Moore. Moore had 17 points against Royal Oak in the district final. Also the Mustangs feature Uche Ike and Megan Kraus whom are capable of having big games.
PREDICTION: I think the Wolves size will be too much for Birmingham Marian and Moore gets shut down by Aynotte. Clarkston does have enough size to contest with Ike in the post and will give the Mustangs problems. I think Waterford Kettering beats Utica Eisenhower pretty handily and we see Clarkston/Waterford Kettering Round Three. Until the Wolves can solve their Captains problem, its hard to pick them to move on. PICK: WATERFORD KETTERING.
Friday, March 2, 2018
District Thoughts-Girls.
Written Friday March 2nd at 11:15 PM
First I want to congratulate Oxford on beating Macomb Dakota getting their first ever Girls State Bowling title. Heck of an accomplishment for the Wildcats.
Also in Cheerleading in the State Finals with Adams taking 2nd, Rochester 3rd, Stoney Creek 5th, and Lake Orion 8th.
I want to recap the districts for Girls Basketball, there were some I wasn't surprised and some scores that really has me nodding my head.
I was surprised how Birmingham Marian beat Royal Oak 39-25. The Mustangs had a game plan against Samantha Potter but the third quarter was the difference in that game where Birmingham Marian busted the game wide open. Also I was surprised that Olivia Moore had 17 points, that was something the Ravens couldn't have if they wanted to win that game. Royal Oak has Potter and Jessica Adams coming back, among others next year.
I wasn't surprised with what happened to Berkley against Detroit Renaissance. As mentioned I criticized the Bears schedule of not playing tough teams and it showed here in this game. Berkley will have a loaded team next season led by Olivia DiCarlo but if I'm a Bears fan I would toughen up the non conference to get yourself tested for this type of matchup.
I knew that Stoney Creek would have a tough game against Utica Eisenhower eventually losing 49-33. I was surprised that the Cougars turned the ball over 33 times and Emily Echout was shut down. Stoney Creek has the balk of their team coming back next season led by Echout and Meghan Solek.
Bloomfield Hills hit 10 threes against a very good Waterford Kettering team but it wasn't enough as the Blackhawks lost 42-37. Bloomfield Hills had their chances but the Captains hit free throws late giving them the win. The Blackhawks do return the balk of their team back led by Maryiam Hashim, Jordan Banks, and Grace Getz.
Alexis Johnson really bailed out Southfield Arts and Tech in their game against Farmington Hills Mercy. Johnson had 26 points including the game winning two points with 45 seconds left and the steal that sent the Warriors home for the Regional against Detroit Martin Luther King with a 49-45 win over the Marlins. Cheyenne McEvans (11) and D'Layna Holliman (10) combined for 21 points. Probably the thing I was surprised about here is that Southfield Arts and Tech wasn't the VISITOR on the scoreboard at Farmington Hills Mercy despite the Marlins having the home bench and all of that but that's not my call.
Clarkston shut out Holly for three quarters, outscoring the Bronchos 25-0 on route to a 33-9 blowout. They also shut down Rebecca Fugate, whom had big games against Lake Orion and Oxford in the district tournament. The Senior heavy Wolves will be tested for sure against Birmingham Marian in the Regional round next week.
First I want to congratulate Oxford on beating Macomb Dakota getting their first ever Girls State Bowling title. Heck of an accomplishment for the Wildcats.
Also in Cheerleading in the State Finals with Adams taking 2nd, Rochester 3rd, Stoney Creek 5th, and Lake Orion 8th.
I want to recap the districts for Girls Basketball, there were some I wasn't surprised and some scores that really has me nodding my head.
I was surprised how Birmingham Marian beat Royal Oak 39-25. The Mustangs had a game plan against Samantha Potter but the third quarter was the difference in that game where Birmingham Marian busted the game wide open. Also I was surprised that Olivia Moore had 17 points, that was something the Ravens couldn't have if they wanted to win that game. Royal Oak has Potter and Jessica Adams coming back, among others next year.
I wasn't surprised with what happened to Berkley against Detroit Renaissance. As mentioned I criticized the Bears schedule of not playing tough teams and it showed here in this game. Berkley will have a loaded team next season led by Olivia DiCarlo but if I'm a Bears fan I would toughen up the non conference to get yourself tested for this type of matchup.
I knew that Stoney Creek would have a tough game against Utica Eisenhower eventually losing 49-33. I was surprised that the Cougars turned the ball over 33 times and Emily Echout was shut down. Stoney Creek has the balk of their team coming back next season led by Echout and Meghan Solek.
Bloomfield Hills hit 10 threes against a very good Waterford Kettering team but it wasn't enough as the Blackhawks lost 42-37. Bloomfield Hills had their chances but the Captains hit free throws late giving them the win. The Blackhawks do return the balk of their team back led by Maryiam Hashim, Jordan Banks, and Grace Getz.
Alexis Johnson really bailed out Southfield Arts and Tech in their game against Farmington Hills Mercy. Johnson had 26 points including the game winning two points with 45 seconds left and the steal that sent the Warriors home for the Regional against Detroit Martin Luther King with a 49-45 win over the Marlins. Cheyenne McEvans (11) and D'Layna Holliman (10) combined for 21 points. Probably the thing I was surprised about here is that Southfield Arts and Tech wasn't the VISITOR on the scoreboard at Farmington Hills Mercy despite the Marlins having the home bench and all of that but that's not my call.
Clarkston shut out Holly for three quarters, outscoring the Bronchos 25-0 on route to a 33-9 blowout. They also shut down Rebecca Fugate, whom had big games against Lake Orion and Oxford in the district tournament. The Senior heavy Wolves will be tested for sure against Birmingham Marian in the Regional round next week.
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About Me
- Saginaw Bay
- I have highest function of autism (Asperger Syndrome.) I'm a huge Dallas Stars fan. I like to play and watch football, especially when the Dragons play on Friday nights. I am a 2006 alum and used to play football for the Dragons. I ran track, I ran the 100, 200, 400 meter dashes along with shot-put and discus. During my time in Orion I was a manager for Junior Varsity Boys Basketball team. I'm the volleyball, girls basketball, and football announcer for the team and do the book on the road for girls basketball. I do the clock for volleyball in the fall along with girls basketball in the winter and announce some boys basketball games as well. In the spring I coach shot-put at Scripps Middle School, in my fifth season coaching. I run the shot-put for high school meets. I played Special Olympics Basketball, I've won three gold medals for them. I host "Between Taorminas" which is on ONTV along with a podcast called "OAA Now". In other various things outside of Lake Orion, I love to jet ski over Saginaw Bay. Saginaw Bay is basically my life. I'm a trained weather spotter for the National Weather Service for Oakland and Huron counties.