A look ahead to Team 97

I wrote a small wrap up piece on the 2012-2013 dream basketball season last week.  It served more as a way for me to share my emotions after a gut wrenching championship game outcome.  If you want a full recap of the most enjoyable sports seasons in my lifetime, take a minute (or 17) to watch the video that was shown at the end of season banquet. Make sure to watch out for the cutting of onions, dust in your eye, or punch to the nose.

 

 

Now as we say goodbye to the 5 seniors, Trey Burke, and Tim Hardaway, we can also celebrate the return of Glenn Robinson III and Mitch McGary.  Since I am in denial that the college basketball season is really finished, I think it is fitting to start looking ahead to Team 97. 

There is really no way to understate talent and leadership that Michigan will be trying to replace next season.  Trey Burke is a once-in-a-generation type player, Tim Hardaway would have been a senior captain and All-B1G first team lock, and the 5 seniors provided some of the most important leadership for Team 96.  While most people just want to focus on the loss of the two starters, I think replacing the 5 seniors will be just as big of a task.  Do you realize that these 5 seniors made up the majority of the scout team?  While Michigan was one of the youngest teams on the floor, they prepared with and against one of the most experienced.  Just a few years ago 3 of these 5 seniors played valuable minutes for John Beilein, and all 5 have played against and prepared for each B1G team multiple times before 2012-2013.  This might be Coach Beilein’s toughest job next year, and few people will even notice. 

After reading that, you might be a little more discouraged or maybe realizing more why seasons like Team 96’s do not come around very often.  However, there are still reasons to begin the countdown until Team 97 takes over Crisler.  Michigan will be more talented next year.  The Wolverines, in fact, will be one of the deepest and most talented teams in the country.  This does not mean I think another Final Four trip is guaranteed, though, just ask Kentucky.  Champions need talent, but they also need that talent to sacrifice for the betterment of the team.  At this point, Michigan will field 11 scholarship players to begin the 2013-2014 season.  Can we all agree that Max Biefeldt would be ranked number 11? How many teams in the conference have someone that talented as the last player off the bench? How many teams even have 11 guys that have played valuable minutes?  I cannot think of any, and to be honest, it’s probably still an extremely short list if you expand the search field to all of Division 1. 

In terms of top flight talent, Team 97 should consist of at least 4 NBA players; 3 of which will likely be lottery picks.  The Wolverines should boast two legitimate B1G POY candidates (Robinson and McGary); along with two potential All-B1G freshmen (Irvin and Walton).  This doesn’t even include should-be improved sophomores (Stauskas and LeVert), All-B1G defensive first teamer (Morgan) and sleeper freshmen (Donnal).  John Beilein has re-built this program with his ever-changing system, surrounding himself with dedicated and hard-working assistants, high level recruiting, and top-tier player development; all while conducting himself with class and integrity.  Not only will the 2013-2014 basketball team be one of the best in the country again, the Michigan basketball program is one of the healthiest in the nation. I will leave you with a quote from the man on top after Glenn Robinson III and Mitch McGary announced they would be returning for their sophomore years (from UMHoops): “I watched these eight kids work out yesterday. I just gave my two cents and I let my assistants coach for most of those two hours.  I was smiling when I went home… working out those eight guys, and knowing the quality of the three coming in, I was smiling on the way home.”

Go Blue

 

 



 

Michigan Wolverines are still my champion

I have taken a mini-break from my daily blog entries to try and just sit back and enjoy the Michigan Wolverines making a Final Four, and national championship game run.  Even though I was not able to go to Atlanta, I wanted to just let this surreal experience wash over me.  The 2012-2013 Michigan basketball team seemed like a team of destiny. Each time a new obstacle was thrown its way, somebody was going to step up to lead the way around it.  But, for some reason, last night just was not meant to be. 

As the sadness and disappointment hung on my shoulders this morning, I wanted to blame the questionable calls from the officials, or the terrible defensive rebounding in the second half, or bad clock management at the end of the game, but I couldn’t.  The Wolverines ran out of gas, but still left what little remained in the tank on the floor.  Yes, Michigan surrendered 1.26 ppp, which was the worst defensive performance of the entire season, but in return the nation’s best offense also carved up Louisville’s top defense to the tune of 1.17ppp.  Yes, the officiating was horrendous, but there were terrible calls made against both teams.  Yes Michigan wasted 21 of the final 50 seconds, but the Cardinals had a 2 possession lead and were knocking down free throws.  Louisville was the better team last night, but it doesn’t take away the fact that it was one of the best basketball games of the entire season.  How often does that happen on Championship Monday? However, one thing that we can agree on is that Michigan deserved to be on the biggest stage. 

So now as time continues to roll on, and last night moves further in the past, I am left with feeling proud and thankful.  I am proud of where the coaching staff has elevated the program I love.  I am thankful for all the moments I will never forget from the past 5 months.  I am proud of the way this team fought until the end.  I am thankful that I was able to see the best player to come through the Michigan program since the 1960’s.  Finally, I am proud to call the University of Michigan my alma mater.

I’ll admit that I got caught up in the frustrations of last night’s game; with my voice taking the brunt of the abuse, but I was able to watch my team on the biggest stage, one last time.  While the networks and “experts” will be quick to forget the team that came in second, Team 96 will forever be cemented in my memory.  Not only for just what they accomplished, but what they stood for.  I guess for that, these Michigan Wolverines actually were a team of destiny.

The shot heard round the world

In case you are living under a rock, this happened on Friday night:

 

 

This also happened:

 

 

Lucky for me, these were also documented:

 

 

 

It was the greatest shot that I can remember my team making, in the biggest moment of my memory.  Michigan looked dead in the water against the top seeded Jayhawks, and not because Kansas was so dominant, but because the Wolverine defense fell back into old habits and surrendered more easy lay-ups and points in the paint than I ever remember seeing.  Then the National Player of the Year took over, and led Michigan back with a 14-4 run over the final few minutes of regulation.  Which set the stage for one of the biggest shots in Michigan basketball history.  It is one of those that will be replayed for every NCAA tournament promo in the future, and does it feel good to be on the winning side. 

 

Michigan continued their momentum into the overtime stanza and prevailed with a 2 point win.  The Wolverines then followed that up with a 40 minute clinic against the computer's runaway best team in the country. The maize and blue had done it, they advanced to a Final Four. 

 

To be honest, it still hasn't sunk it completely and we are 4 days after securing our spot.  Can it be that we are lucky enough to see our team in the final weekend of the season? Can it be that we are lucky enough to see the program's best point guard at least 1 more time? Even though when this team has played well it is obvious they are Final Four contenders, it still seemed like a pipe dream.  This team that limped to the regular season finish line, that forgot to show up for the Big Ten Tournament, that slipped to a 4 seed, this team will be able to hang another banner in Crisler. 

 

There are still 3 more games to be played this weekend, and hopefully Michigan gets to participate in 2, but I am just lucky enough to get to see these guys put on the Michigan uniform at least one more time.  This has been one of the most enjoyable journeys that a sports team has taken me on, and I think we can all be thankful that there is still more to come.  Go Blue!



Sweet 16 Preview

The Sweet Sixteen is upon us, and there are a number of intriguing matchups.  While the first weekend was filled with upsets, the major contenders are all still playing.  I mean, lets face it, did you really think Gonzaga or Georgetown were going to win a national title?  The opening Thursday and Friday should be national holidays, and are two of the best days in sports for the year, but I really enjoy the round of 16 because usually it is the first time that the number 1 seeds are truly tested, and the tournament heavyweights present themselves.

East

Marquette vs Miami

Both teams struggled in the opening weekend, and probably should have lost already (Marquette to Davidson and Miami to Illinois).  The Golden Eagles benefitted from Michigan slumping down the stretch, because they probably should have been a 4 seed instead of the maize and blue.  The Hurricanes received some bad news this week as solid center Reggie Johnson needed knee surgery and is likely out until the Final Four.  Without him, I doubt Miami makes it that far. Marquette will want to play this game in the 60’s, but Miami will want to exploit the Golden Eagles’ lack of athleticism and increase the tempo.  Vander Blue has been huge for Marquette in the tournament, while Shane Larkin is showing why he is the best guard in the ACC.  I definitely think losing Johnson will hurt Miami, but I don’t think Marquette has enough weapons to pull the upset.

Indiana vs Syracuse

At first thought this seems like a heavyweight matchup.  Both teams have the name recognition, and both were in the top 5 at some point this season. But when you dig into the stats it seems like Indiana has a decided advantage. The Orange rank as one of the best defensive teams in the country; using their excessive length to play their signature 2-3 matchup zone. But Indiana has the best zone offense in the B1G, and the most efficient offense overall.  While the Hoosiers lack the front court depth and size that Syracuse plays, they do have one of the best stretch 4’s in the game.  Christian Watford will be the key to this game, as I would imagine him to be the man to flash to the free throw line to attack the zone.  He can score from anywhere on the floor, and if he is aggressive on the offensive end then Indiana will conduct a 40 minute clinic on how to break the 2-3 zone. If the Orange can keep Watford in check, then Syracuse can control the pace of play and keep the Hoosiers under 70.  This will be needed because Cuse really struggles on the offensive end of the floor.  At the end of the day I think Indiana eventually pulls away in the 2^nd half.

West

Arizona vs Ohio State

On paper this will be the Buckeye’s toughest game until the Final Four.  Yes, a 6 seed will be the Buckeye’s toughest game on paper.  In reality, Iowa State might be the only team to stay within 10 until Atlanta. Arizona is coached by a former Thad Matta assistant, Sean Miller.  You might remember him from Xavier when they should have pulled the upset over Greg Oden led Ohio State a few years ago.  The Wildcats are loaded with young talent and an experienced point guard transfer.  The problem with Arizona, like any young team, is inconsistency.  If they can play a focused 40 minutes of basketball, Arizona can play with anyone, but I am not sure they have done that at any point this season.  One thing is for sure; Ohio State is playing its best basketball of the season, and the Wildcats have not seen physical, lock-down, defense like they will tonight.  If the seconday scoring option (Craft, Smith, Ross, Thompson) for the Buckeyes can continue, they will be advancing to another Elite 8. 

Wichita State vs La Salle

The Shockers pulled off the almost expected upset of Gonzaga last week, and are playing some of the best basketball in the tournament.  Head coach Greg Marshall is pushing to be on the same level as Shaka Smart and Brad Stevens.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see him end up in Minnesota next season, and UCLA should also make a run at him.  Wichita State plays a B1G style of play where they defend for 35 seconds, and rebound the heck out of the basketball.  La Salle has been the beneficiary of playing one of the biggest tournament under-achievers, Bruce Weber, and then a terrible Ole Miss team.  They are the last A-10 team left.  They have used a similar style to make the sweet 16.  It is hard to see this game making it into the 60’s.  La Salle is led by Ramon Galloway who will be the best athlete in this game, and will push to score 20.  I personally think Wichita State is just a little better than La Salle at the same game and will move another step closer to the Final Four.

Midwest

Louisville vs Oregon

The Cardinals are showing why they were chosen as the number 1 overall seed in the tournament.  The Pitino-led club is playing on a mission to win a championship.  Russ Smith has been actually helping Louisville instead of playing for the opponent.  On the other side, Oregon was definitely under-seeded as a 12 and came out on a mission to prove that.  Singler and Dotson lead the way for the Ducks.  This might have been a fun game in the BCS, but this one seems a little lopsided.  Louisville’s pressure trapping defense will force too many turnovers, which will lead to numerous easy opportunities for the Cardinals.  Also, Oregon hasn’t seen this much athleticism before.  I think Louisville’s mission continues.

Michigan State vs Duke

This is definitely one of the most anticipated games in the round of 16.  Just think of the matchups: Nix vs Plumlee, Payne vs Kelly, Harris vs Curry.  As a basketball fan, this game gets me hyped, even though it is a matchup of two of my least favorite teams. Even with these high level matchups, the key will come down to how Keith Appling performs.  If he can limit his turnovers, I think Michigan State will be able to stretch the Blue Devils’ defense. It will also be interesting to see how the Spartans defend Duke.  Michigan State usually benefits from the officials letting them play physical, but Duke usually benefits from the officials calling wrong looks on opponents.  Which coach will get the refs in their pocket?  Even though Coach K has been doing this longer, I think the Michigan State style of play will force the refs to lean more towards the Spartans.  Michigan State is one of the only teams that matches up well against Duke.  Personally, I think Payne will frustrate Kelly enough to let the Spartans have a chance at the end, but this game is just too close for me to call right now. As a Michigan fan, you might just be rooting for a power outage or the proverbial meteor.

South

Michigan vs Kansas

The Wolverines went from the easy upset pick in their first two games to the South regional favorite.  Man, I love how quickly the media can change their opinion.  Even if the season ends tomorrow night, just enjoy that Beilein has lead the program to being on the same athletic level as Kansas.  The Wolverines probably have even more athletes and future NBA players.  Kansas plays the exact opposite style of play as VCU, and I would imagine that they are getting sick of hearing how great Michigan is.  They lead the nation in 2 point defense, mostly because they have the best shot blocker left in the tournament (Jeff Withey).  The Jayhawks don’t force a lot of turnovers, but mostly just funnel ball handlers into the paint towards the abominable blockman.  On offense they like to get out in transition when possible, and in the half-court they use off ball screens and slashing to get to the hoop.  They also crash the offensive glass extremely well, which is where Withey is most effective in the offense.  Michigan will look to push the tempo because Mitch McGary is a much better athlete than Withey, which could tire him out or get him in foul trouble.  In the halfcourt, the Wolverines will stick with their ball screen offense to draw the mountain of a man away from the hoop. It will be very interesting to see how Kansas defends the screens because Withey is not the quickest player, so Burke should be able to get around him during a hedge. If the Jayhawks pack the middle, then Burke will have to knock down some jump shots.  Ideally, it would be nice to see Kansas hedge on the screen, because Burke should be able to get by Withey, which will open up the shooters.  The Wolverines will definitely have to shoot from long range better than they did in the first weekend, because offensive put backs, back cuts, and mid-range jump shots will be tough to come by.  If Michigan can continue to rebound the ball well and limit Withey’s presence on the defensive end, they will have a great chance at advancing, but those are two very big ifs.

Florida vs Florida Gulf Coast

FGCU was a great story last weekend.  Their style of play is really fun to watch, and I would imagine they will have a majority of the crowd in their corner tomorrow night.  The problem is that Florida is really good at playing a similar style.  The Gators won’t might scoring 80+ points.  As much as I would like to see the Gulf Coast Cinderella run continue, I think they hit a buzz-saw and will be on the wrong side of a lopsided score.

High School Finals Recap

The 2013 High School basketball state finals were unique in that each class had at least one division 1 player to watch.  Even though most of the games seemed like mismatches on paper, 3 were very competitive and the other one was still entertaining.  Overall, it was another successful state final weekend, and more importantly, it continued my streak.

Class D

On paper the Southfield Christian vs Wyoming Tri-Unity Christian matchup was pegged to be the best of the day.  It was clear from the beginning that these two teams weren’t on the same level.  Usually Tri-Unity features some Class D giants and play at a slow, physical pace.  This was not the case this year, as Southfield Christian had the advantage in size, athleticism, and depth.  Sophomore Evelyn looked like the best player on the floor for most of the game.  While he only took the game over for a 3 minute stretch in the 2^nd quarter, it was clear there were no Defenders that could stay in front of him.  He makes the game of basketball look extremely easy, and puts his teammates in situations to be successful.  I think Evelyn’s stock will continue to rise this summer as he works on attaching and finishing at the rim. While watching this game, the question quickly turned to which team will be able to compete with SC for the 2014 state title (or even 2015)? The Eagles did not have a senior contributor on this year’s team.

Class A

After watching Romulus score 93 points, and win a nail-biter against Pershing last Tuesday, then Southeastern follow up that game with an unimpressive win keyed by an intense trapping defense, it seemed that the Class A title was all but decided.  However, the Jungleers forced Romulus to play at their slow tempo, and they did a good job at keeping the Eagles out of the transition game.  EC Matthews again led the way, and showed why he is one of the most under-rated recruits in the entire state.  Rhode Island is getting an excellent basketball player.  Romulus eventually pulled away for a hard fought win.  It was a fun game because each division one player (Matthews, Clark, Edwards, and Plummer) all had their showcase moments. With the Eagles having one of the most talented senior classes to come out of Michigan in recent memory, Class A is now up for grabs next year.  Look for U of D Jesuit, Ypsilanti, Saginaw Arthur Hill, and Muskegon to be in the running.

Class C

It was Monte Morris’ final high school game, and it seemed fitting that it concluded where he made a name for himself as a freshman.  The only problem with this picture-perfect story was that Mr. Basketball was sick and barely could play in the second half.  Beecher was matched up against first-timer Laingsburg.  I have to admit, I was extremely impressed with Laingsburg’s game.  They were senior laden, didn’t have a super-star, but were completely bought into the system.  They were fundamentally sound and played great team basketball.  It looks like Beecher was a little stunned that they actually had a struggle on their hands, and Morris not being close to 100% didn’t help either.  There were moments that Morris couldn’t be slowed down, but for most of the game he was winded and sluggish.  At the end Laingsburg had a few great chances to pull off the great upset, but couldn’t convert.  Even though Morris didn’t have his best game in the finals, he leaves as one of the greatest high schoolers to come out of Flint.  2014 will again be controlled by Detroit Consortium, but will they figure out a way to finally get to the Breslin?  Josh Jackson will be the best player in the entire state, and he will only be a freshman. 

Class B

In the day’s final game, Detroit Country Day was going for their 8^th state championship against Cinderella Detroit Community.  The Hurricanes had 9 losses on the season, but hadn’t lost to a class B team yet.  Country Day on the other hand had completely outclassed all of their postseason opponents and looked to run away with the final game.  The Yellowjackets lack of height finally got exposed, and Community was able to hang with DCD for most of the game.  The Hurricanes packed the paint area and urged DCD to shoot threes, but the shots weren’t falling.  Edmond Sumner had a rough shooting night, but I still think he is the leading candidate for Mr. Basketball in 2014.  During a 2 minute stretch to end the first half Sumner got aggressive and attacked the Community zone.  He scored 9 points in that stretch, but then fell back into being complacent and taking long jump shots for the rest of the game.  On the other side, Byron Zeigler had an opportunity to show his potential. A 6’7” wing going against a team whose tallest starter was 6’4”, but he did little to impress.  He also settled for too many jump shots when he should have been able to dominate the paint.  Country Day is returning a lot of talent to next year’s team, and they will likely be the favorites again, but a team with a strong post player (Sexton or Lansing Catholic Central) could push them.

Class A Semifinal & Final Preview

I was lucky enough to see the Romulus vs Pershing quarterfinal game, so most of this post will be raving about the Eagles' victory.  Elsewhere around the state in Class A the better team advanced setting up an interesting weekend for Michigan's biggest division.

1. Romulus (25-1) Ranked AP #2
The Eagles defeated Pershing to get revenge from their lone loss in the regular season.  Last night's game was the best high school basketball game I have ever witnessed.  Both teams scored 20+ points in each quarter, and it was close throughout the game with Romulus coming away with a 93-91 win.  The game featured 7 division 1 players.  7 legitimate division 1 players. And each of them lived up to the hype.  The Eagles have 4 players in their starting lineup that will be receiving their college for free, and a 5 that is a lights out sharp shooter.  EC Matthews, Rhode Island, led the way with 29 points, but he was supported by Wes Clark, Missouri, Leo Edwards, Louisiana Tech, and 6'4" undecided Junior Jalon Plummer.  This team played an incredible game last night, and it will be interesting to see how they respond on Friday.  Last year after an emotional win over Pershing in the quarterfinals the Eagles laid an egg against Rockford.

2. Saginaw (24-3) Ranked AP #6
The Trojans are the defending champions and are hungry for a repeat.  High has advanced through one of the toughest roads with wins over arch-rival Arthur Hill, Midland, and Ypsilanti.  Saginaw's stars change, but their style of play does not.  The Trojans play some of the best defense in the entire state, and their team is loaded with gritty basketball players.  Saginaw jumped out to a 17 point lead againist Ypsilanti last night, but then had to hang on for a 4 point win, 58-54. The Trojans are led by a balanced offensive attack, and has seen 4 different top scorers in 7 postseason games.  6'2" Senior Julian Henderson is considered the best player, and he is averaging 19 points and 8 rebounds during this playoff run.  Saginaw also gets key contributions from Senior Markell Bradshaw and Freshman Algevon Eichelberger.

3. Grand Rapids Christian (20-6) Ranked AP Honorable Mention
The Eagles needed a valiant 4th quarter comeback to down Muskegon in the semifinals, 64-61.  Christian has actually needed multiple comebacks to beat East Kentwood in districts and Holt in regionals.  The Eagles are led by 6'4" Junior standout Drake Harris who is averaging close to 30 points during this playoff run, and 6'2" Sophomore Deleon Brown.  This is GRC's 2nd straight semifinal appearance, but last year they were in Class B and lost to Stevensville Lakeshore.

4. Detroit Southeastern (20-5) Ranked AP Honorable Mention
The Jungleers played against Rochester in the 2nd quarterfinal at U-D last night.  Since they followed the best high school game I have ever seen, this matchup was less than entertaining.  Southeastern put the clamps on Kentucky-bound James Young, and held him to 16 points and probably 20+ shots. Southeastern used a 1-3-1 zone to confuse the Rochester ball handlers, force turnovers, and keep Young out of the lane. The Jungaleers do not have the division 1 talent they did 2 years ago when they made a Breslin run, but they still value playing a high pressure, trapping defense. Southeastern is led by Senior Jovone Haynes, Kenyatta Singleton, Kwesi Williams, and Korel Clark. 

Romulus vs Grand Rapids Christian 1:00pm Friday
The Eagles are the best team in the state, and they proved it with last night's win.  The problem is that they have been the most talented team in the state for the past 3 seasons and have nothing to show for it.  If the same Romulus team shows up on Friday that I saw last night, Romulus will roll to a lopsided win.  Grand Rapids Christian does have 2014 Mr. Basketball candidate Drake Harris, but Romulus has 4 division 1 players.  The EC Matthews matchup against Drake Harris will be really intriguing. 

Saginaw vs Detroit Southeastern 2:50 Friday
The Trojans already beat the Jungleers once this season.  The only problem is that they needed a furious fourth quarter comeback to win by 1.  This should be an exciting, low scoring game between to top notch defensive teams.  I think Saginaw has improved dramatically throughout the season, and can draw on their 2012 championship run or the motivation for a rematch from an earlier 30 point loss to Romulus. 

Class A Final 12:00 Saturday
Romulus should be advancing to the final for the last game of their talented senior class, but which team will join them is more of a toss up.  I think Saginaw has discovered enough offensive firepower to overtake Southeastern to set up a rematch with the Eagles.  Romulus is the state's best team, and I have to imagine the 3 top tier seniors will be motivated to go out on a winning note.  Will this be the game that Jalon Plummer makes a name for himself to possibly be included on the 2014 Mr. Basketball ballot?

Class B Semifinal & Final Preview

Class B had two top tier quarterfinal matchups that did not disappoint.  As we move onto the final four, though, it looks like this class will be a one-sided final for the 4th straight year.

1. Detroit Country Day (23-3) Ranked AP #1
The Yellowjackets are making their 4th straight trip to the semifinals, and are the clear favorites in 2013.  They are led by a trio of division 1 guards, Austin Price, Edmond Sumner, and Mory Diane.  I will be working on my scouting report of Sumner next week; as he is one of the quickest rising juniors.  DCD only lacks their normal stud center, or else they would be close to unbeatable.  I was able to watch the Yellowjackets take on Harper Woods Chandler Park last week, and I saw the trio explode out of halftime to put up 33 points in the 3rd quarter alone.  They use a high pressure man to man defense that switches any screens at the top of the key.  Any three of their guards might be the best players left in Class B.  With so many options to handle the ball, DCD is able to keep turnovers at a minimum.  And if they get into the open court, just enjoy the show. 

2. Wyoming Godwin Heights (23-2) Ranked AP #6
Godwin Heights has escaped the past two games to advance to the semifinals.  They pulled off the upset of 2012 runner-up Stevensville-Lakeshore last night.  The Wolverines are also led by depth on the perimeter, and their tallest front court player is 6'4".  Godwin Heights like to play an aggressive man to man defense to showcase their quickness.  Even though Lakeshore was much bigger than the Wolverines, the Lancers were held to only 3 scorers.  Their past 4 games have been decided by an average of 5 points, so the late game execution could be a major advantage for the Wolverines. Godwin Heights is led by 6'1" Senior Quantrell Hastings, 5'10" Sophomore Jamal Bland, 5'11" Senior Braima Hall, and 6'2" Sophomore Delaney Blaylock.

3. Detroit Community (17-9) Not Ranked AP
The Hurricanes have the ugliest record of any semifinalist, but to their benefit, they have not lost to a Class B team yet.  After Jackson Lumen-Chisti upset Lansing Sexton, I figured they would advance to the Breslin, but Detroit Community slowed down the tempo enough to come away with a 50-47 win. The Hurricanes used an aggressive 2-3 zone to stifle JLC, which could be pulled back out to offset the quickness of the Wolverines.  Community is led by 6'7" Senior Byron Zeigler, who is heading to South Florida and 6'6" Senior Jarrell Martin.

4. Cadillac (21-4) Not Ranked AP
The Vikings finally advanced past the dreaded quarterfinals where their season has ended the past two years. They knocked off a one loss Big Rapids team 41-29.  Cadillac plays a high pressure defense that forces almost 20 turnovers a game, but their offensive game leaves little to be desired. The Vikings are led by 6'4" Junior Jalen Brooks.

Detroit Country Day vs Cadillac 6:00 Friday
You just read me raving about the Yellowjackets.  I defnitely think DCD is the best team in Class B, and I also think if they were to lose against Cadillac it would be one of the biggest upsets in the entire tournament.  Some people might be rubbed the wrong way by head coach Kurt Keener, but he always has his team playing well in the Breslin.  I think the guard trio has a huge game and DCD rolls into the finals.

Detroit Community vs Wyoming Godwin Heights 7:50 Friday
This is an intriguing game because while Godwin Heights has the superior record, Community has been battle tested all season.  The Hurricanes will also have the best player on the floor, but they have been known to struggle with turning the ball over this season.  That can be a major problem when playing against the Wolverines.  I think this game will go down to the wire, and Godwin Heights recent late game experiences will be enough to propel them to a state title appearance.

Class B Final 6:30 Saturday
Detroit Country Day is one of the best teams in the entire state.  The Yellowjackets are loaded with athleticism and play with good fundamentals.  I think Edmond Sumner uses this weekend to propel him into a high major prospect in the 2014 class and stake claim to next year's Mr. Basketball.