MP Hoops Scouting & Analysis

There are so many great showcases right off the bat upcoming in the 2023-24 Michigan boys high school basketball season, and the Northville Mustangs’ annual event is certainly among them.

Ten of the state’s top teams will take the court Saturday, December 16, with the home-school side kicking off the event.

Here’s a look at the five primetime matchups.:

Detroit Country Day vs. Northville

Northville’s top two players, Carlos Adamson and Justin Huang, transferred out of state, but they still have quality talent led by junior point guard Simon Sondreal (5-11) and intriguing sophomore Brody Grezak (6-4). Country Day looks to revive its program with a pair of highly ranked freshmen in Isaiah Marino (6-6) and Christian Cast (6-1). Two young squads will look for some early-season momentum.

Canton vs. Lansing Waverly

Waverly’s frontcourt is among the best in the state. Forwards Deunte Phifer (6-5), who has D1 offers, Treyvon Miller (6-6) and Derek Thomas (6-4) are all physical and versatile players. Phifer has NBA range and will take advantage of it. DeShawnta Malone (5-10) should run the show. Canton will be led by recent Kalamazoo College commit Bradley Eziuka (6-4).

Belleville vs. River Rouge

Two deep squads face off in a very intriguing matchup. River Rouge returns its entire starting lineup. Senior forward Keshawn Fisher (6-6) provides an otherwise small Rouge lineup with some height. Kendall Bentley (6-2) and James Weaver (5-11) are tough guards who will play next-level basketball. Belleville will be led by senior guards Deontray Gary (5-11), a fast-rising prospect due to his speed and tenacity, as well as scorer Jalen Jenkins (6-2). Junior forward Braylon Mannon (6-8) could turn Belleville into contenders. Watch out for Chinasa Agbaeze (6-4) and Shemar Woodson (6-3) on the wings.

North Farmington vs. Zeeland West

A little west-side love in this game with Zeeland West making the cross-state trek. The Dux are led by Indiana State commit Merrit Alderink (6-7), who can do everything on the court, Hope commit Lukas Baker (6-5) and Cornerstone commit Myles Steffon (6-3). North Farmington has its own share of next-level talent, led by Cleveland State signee Tyler Spratt (6-5) and Niagra signee Landon Williams (6-4). Add in Raiders transfers Dylan Smith (6-8) and Robert Smith (5-8), and this should be a highly competitive matchup.

Detroit Edison vs. Ann Arbor Huron

River Rats junior guard Macari Moore (6-3) is one of the best all-around players in the state. He could easily average 25 points per game and lead his team to the Breslin Center. He will be supported by Justin Latham (6-6) and Kaleb Brown (6-3). Edison returns a squad with numerous pieces, but it will be interesting if they can all come together. Ferris State signee Quron Williams (6-5) and fellow wing Jace Petree (6-4) will lead the way.