MP Hoops Scouting & Analysis

The MHSAA will announce district seedings Sunday night as the postseason rapidly approaches.

That magical time of year is here again, when upsets make heroes and elite teams try to stay healthy for a lengthy run.

Here are five teams few will predict to go on a long playoff run, but just might surprise:

East Kentwood – One of the youngest teams in the state, EK is finally healthy entering the final stages of the season. Special sophomore C.J. Reynolds (6-3) returned a couple weeks ago after recovering from a knee injury sustained late last season. He teams up in the backcourt with fellow sophomore Jeremiah Cook (6-1) and junior Randy Chapman (6-2), both whom have had some impressive scoring efforts this season. The frontcourt is led by sophomore forward Samuel Makuag (6-5) and sophomore center Andrew Kenyi (6-9). They are both athletic playmakers starting to gain comfort on both ends of the court. This team also has depth in the form of quick, athletic guards and another 6-6 forward. Even though the Falcons currently have a losing record, they have the talent and rising chemistry to make a strong run.

Lansing Waverly – Currently sitting at an underrated 17-3, Waverly likely won’t be given much of a chance to go on a long run because Breslin Center favorite East Lansing awaits in their district. But Waverly and East Lansing have had two very close battles in the regular season, meaning Waverly could be one upset away from a deep run. Center Xavier Pendergrass (6-7) and forward Derek Thomas (6-3) dominate the paint with athleticsm, patience and great post moves. DeShawnta Malone (5-10) is a shifty guard who plays with spirit and tenacity. Several role players, like sharpshooter Carlos Gomez (5-11), have also stepped up this season.

River Rouge – They did it last year. After a somewhat disappointing regular season, River Rouge made it all the way to the quarterfinals. That path is in front of them again this year, despite losing some recent close games. Memphis McDowell (5-10) is a solid point guard and floor general who is great in transition. Wings Shae Eggleston (6-4) and C.J. Hearn (6-4) have next-level talent as effortless and versatile scorers. Marquis Meadows (6-7) is a long, athletic post presence who has the talent but sometimes struggles with consistency. Overall, this team has a similar makeup to last year’s postseason darlings.

Bay City John Glenn – Not necessarily known as a hot-bed for boys basketball talent, John Glenn quietly has one of the most intriguing rosters in the state. Currently 17-2, and now fully healthy, this team has defeated D2 darlings Freeland twice and haven’t lost a game since early December. Hope commit Sean Wesolek (6-7), Hayden Ruff (6-6) and Jimmy McCrum (6-6) are tall, versatile players who can knock down 3-pointers and dominate the paint. Guards Meech Ward (6-3), Oliver Masters (6-1) and Denzell Calhoun (6-2) are athletic, rangy playmakers who can orchestrate an offense or score. This is a fun team to watch, and they might make waves this postseason.

Harbor Springs – It’s been a while since the Rams have threatened Northern Michigan with a Breslin Center trip, but this team has a pair of elite scorers in Rider Bartel (6-0) and Braeden Flynn (5-10). Currently 17-3, Harbor Springs has lived up to the hype despite playing a tough schedule. Having two elite guards is always welcomed in the playoffs. Flynn and Bartel could shoot their way through a very tough road and give annual Breslin spectators a treat in Division 3.