The race for the Macomb Area Conference (MAC) Blue Division boys basketball title is proving to be unpredictable as teams prepare to enter conference play in early January. With a collective record of 11-31 in December, no team has emerged as a clear frontrunner, creating an atmosphere where any team could take the lead.
Defending Champions Seek to Rebuild
Last season, Grosse Pointe North finished strong with a record of 20-5 and reached the Division 1 district finals. However, the Norsemen face significant challenges this season after graduating nine players, including all of their starters. The team, coached by Rob Johnson, currently holds a 1-5 record.
Despite the difficult start, the Norsemen have promising talent. Junior Lewis Simmons, a 6-foot-3 guard/forward, has stood out by averaging nearly 20 points and eight rebounds. Senior Aidyn Brown brings valuable experience as a backup to an All-State point guard last season. Other players, such as junior Jason Hubbell and sophomore Jarrell Thomas, are stepping into pivotal roles, with Thomas showcasing strong shooting skills. Johnson will need to cultivate team cohesion to capitalize on their physical attributes and make a significant impact in the conference.
Challengers Present Diverse Skill Sets
Warren Cousino enters the season with a record of 15-8 last year, but they have started this season with a puzzling 3-6 record. Coach Joe Kohl has a roster filled with potential, including senior combo guard Nicholas Farr, who averaged 20.2 points per game last season. Despite returning four starters, the Patriots need to improve their shooting efficiency to contend for the title.
Another team looking to make its mark is Fraser, which has shown inconsistency with a 3-4 start. Coach Steve Norgrove, a seasoned coach in the Metro Detroit area, is optimistic about his squad’s potential. Senior forward Brady Slone is a key player, averaging around 20 points and 10 rebounds per game.
Meanwhile, Harrison Township L’Anse Creuse aims to improve upon last season’s struggles. With a current record of 2-6, the team features senior forward Logan Kurtz, who is averaging around 12 points per game. The Lancers have experience on their side with eight returning players, making them a team to watch as they seek to build momentum.
Another contender, Utica Ford, has started this season under a new coaching regime led by George Woods. After finishing second last year, the Falcons are adjusting to a new style of play and currently hold a 1-5 record. The team boasts size with key players like senior forward Jamie Thomas and senior center/forward Nick Pagel.
Finally, New Baltimore Anchor Bay is navigating a transition under new coach Zachary White after losing nine players from last season’s roster. With a slow start at 1-5, the team will need to find its rhythm to compete effectively.
As conference play commences, the MAC Blue Division promises a thrilling season filled with surprises and competitive matchups. While teams like Grosse Pointe North and Warren Cousino aim to reclaim their former glory, others are keen to capitalize on the opportunity to rise in the ranks. The upcoming games will showcase the strengths and weaknesses of these teams, as they each strive for dominance in the conference.