MP Hoops Scouting & Analysis

The final week of the 2023-24 Michigan boys high school basketball season is upon us.

Quarterfinals teams are set with a chance to battle for a coveted Breslin Center destination.

This year’s Division 2 Breslin group is poised to excite with a number of big-name players and deep teams. D3 is exciting because you can get teams from all over the state.

Here is a look at the quarterfinal matchups for Division 3:

Covenant Christian vs. Niles-Brandywine

Covenant has flown under the radar, but I was very impressed with them when watching them blow out a solid Zeeland East team. Point guard Carter Scholten (5-11) is the leading scoring threat with a silky-smooth outside shot. Brett Cammenga (6-2) and Spencer Holstege (6-3) provide length and versatility on the wings. Junior Ben Elzinga (6-7) is a matchup problem for most D3 schools. He is a great rebounder and finisher.

Brandywine played a tough schedule after reaching the Breslin last season. They have an exciting starting lineup, led by twins Jeremiah Palmer (6-1) and Jaimer Palmer (6-1). Jeremiah is the better scorer and can really pour in points in bunches. Sophomore point guard Nylen Goins (5-11) continues to diversify his offensive game while becoming more comfortable from long range. Jaytee Smith (6-6) is this team’s x-factor. He’s a terrific shot blocker who can also knock down some 3-pointers.

Prediction: Brandywine 49, Covenant Christian 47

Menominee vs. McBain

Menominee reached the state finals a couple years ago but have a mostly new-look team since then. Brother duo Trevor Theuerkauf (5-10) and Tanner Theuerkauf (5-10) are dynamic scorers who have consistently put up big numbers this season. Connor Coduti (6-4) provides some post defense and scoring, while sophomore Darrent Butler (6-0) is an emerging offensive threat after scoring 10 points against Elk Rapids in the regional final.

There’s no denying it: McBain is the tallest team in D3 and potentially the whole state. They have four players standing 6-5 or taller who make a consistent scoring impact. Senior center Evan Haverkamp (6-9) leads the way. Most teams at this level just cannot handle his size and strength. Freshman forward Clayton Hueker (6-5) has all the tools to be a star. Guard Ben Rodenbaugh (6-6) plays a point-forward role, and he can also knock down 3-pointers. Darrious Pena (6-5) is another athletic wing who can get to the basket.

Prediction: Menominee 41, McBain 39

Old Redford vs. Flint Beecher

Old Redford has three D1 college-level talents on their roster. Sophomore Jaquon Stennis (6-8) already has a power-5 offer from Penn State. He’s an oversized wing who continues to gain offensive consistency. Kaeson Mayes (6-2) battled injuries but he’s back playing great. He also has D1 offers. Sophomore Derrick Kilgore (5-11) runs the point and knocks down 3-pointers. This trio could lead Old Redford to a D3 state title the next two-three years.

One might raise an eyebrow at Beecher’s record. The high number of losses is due to the team forfeiting nine games after playing an ineligible player. The defending D3 state champs and Breslin staples again feature a blend of impressive guard play, 3-point shooting and size in the paint. Point guard Keyonta Menifield (5-9) leads the way with speed and poise. Ferris State commit Wasir James (6-8) is slender but a good outside shooter. Damarcus Burke Jr. (6-1) is a versatile combo guard, and Eric Jones Jr. (6-4) provides length and another scoring threat.

Prediction: Flint Beecher 62, Old Redford 58

Jackson Lumen Christi vs. Riverview Gabriel Richard

Lumen Christi has a deep, balanced squad who has enjoyed some nice victories en route to this game. Junior point guard Luke Tropea (5-10) runs the offense with poise. Kadale Williams (6-1) is the team’s leading scoring threat with incredible athleticism. Freshman Lundon Hampton (6-1) and forward Kasen Burgess (6-3) provide scoring options and great defense. This team has seven players capable of scoring double figures any given night.

Riverview GR entered the season as title favorites, and except for a couple blips have lived up to expectations. This junior-heavy squad could cut down the nets twice before they graduate. Junior guard Luke Westerdale (6-1) has D1 college aspirations as a versatile scorer and all-around leader. Charles Kage (6-8) has grown in height and become more of an offensive threat this season. Nick Sobush (5-10) is an underrated scorer and shot creator. Drew Everingham (6-4) provides length and shooting on the wing. These two teams split their regular-season matchups.

Prediction: Riverview GR 53, Lumen Christi 52