High School Basketball Playoff Preview (Class D)

I have been away from blogging for some time now. I have to admit, the Michigan football season really did a number on my desire to analyze every game.  I needed break from something that started to feel like a job, instead of a fun way to throw out my opinions. I will probably ease my way back into new posts, but wanted to start with a high school basketball update since the playoffs start tonight!

I will give a quick breakdown of how each class’ bracket breaks down with: marquee matchups to watch for before the semi-finals, my final four predictions, and some players to keep an eye on.

Interesting potential matchups:

Regional Finals could feature 3 top ten contests.

#1 Southfield Christian vs #10 Allen Park ICB

These teams are bitter rivals that have played 3 times each of the past 2 years. Southfield Christian is looking for a three-peat, and look to be in the driver’s seat now that the Bakari Evelyn soap opera appears to be sorted out.  MHSAA all-time assist leader, Evan Kraatz, and ICB have been the biggest hurdle for the past two Eagle championship runs.  Why should this year be any different?

#5 Cedarville vs #9 Hillman

Hillman has been a nice story this year, but they have played the toughest schedule.  Their only loss coming at the hands of #3 Baldwin.  On the other hand, Cedarville has made deep March runs before and are primed again in 2014. They are led by all-state hopeful Dan Stenback. Couple him with the typical UP high-pressure up tempo system, and I think Cedarville should move on.

#2 Powers North Central vs #8 Crystal Falls Forest Park

Powers is looking to make a return trip to the Breslin, and finish what they started last year. They are playing the most consistent basketball in the entire class. North Central has also beat Forest Park twice this season.  I think they will make it a third.

Quarterfinals could also have 3 top ten matchups.

 

#1 Southfield Christian vs #4 Peck

Peck is a surprise team in 2014 with an inflated record from a subpar schedule.  However, they still are undefeated and cannot be overlooked for SC.  Class D is still the Eagles’ to lose.

#2 Powers NC vs #5 Cedarville

This game would be between two very experienced teams, and both have played on the Breslin floor in recent years. While Cedarville is the more well-known name, Powers NC owns the UP in 2014.

#3 Bellaire vs #6 Battle Creek St. Philip

It seems like St. Philip has finally surpassed Climax –Scotts for Class D supremacy in southwest Michigan.  Bellaire is technically the higher ranked team, led by guard Denny Hall, but St. Philip’s tougher regular season schedule has them primed to make a memorable playoff run.

Final Four Predictions:

#1 Southfield Christian vs #7 Baldwin (matchup of the two best players in Class D, Evelyn and Brandon Childress)

#2 Powers North Central vs #6 St. Philip

Players to Watch:

Basically the top 6 players for Southfield Christian (Evelyn, Hunter IV, White, Brown, etc)

Brandon Childress, Baldiwn

Evan Kraatz, Allen Parck ICB

David Loney, Frankfort

Mike Warren, Fuitport Calvary Christian