MP Hoops Scouting & Analysis

It’s never too early to make some predictions.

Although March Madness is still a ways away, with summer ball and the (cough) transfer season wrapped up, we can start to get a clearer look at which teams will be leading the pack next season.

District assignments have been posted since June, allowing us to see each quadrant and what it will take for teams to go all the way to East Lansing.

Here is our predicted D2 final four:

Freeland – Pretty much an annual contender at this point, Freeland has one of the most balanced and deepest rosters in the state. Led by Saginaw Valley commit Wilson Huckeby (6-4), who has unlimited 3-point range, this team can put up points in a hurry. As of now, Michigan State football commit Tristian Comer (6-6) plans on playing his senior basketball season. He was a D2 basketball recruit before choosing football for the next level. Transfer Cooper Wagner (6-1) is an experienced guard with college offers who can run the point if needed. Tucker Hileman (6-1) is another solid wing with a nice shot and strength on defense. Connor Lasceski (5-11) is a reliable guard who will likely start at PG. Xander Wheatley (6-4) and Max Heyn (6-1) provide depth and skill off the bench.

Grand Rapids Christian – One of the top title favorites after a couple teams took roster hits with transfers. The Eagles will likely employ the same starting lineup as last season, led by D1 college prospect Carl Thompson (6-4) and Northern Michigan commit Connor Johnson (6-6). Coach’s son junior Braylon Taylor (5-8) is a tremendous point guard with a lethal 3-point shot. Energizer bunny Ajak Gieu (6-1) is a solid all-around player who can also knock down shots. Junior guard Charlie King (6-0) will likely get more playing time as a potential sixth man. Center Will Doezema (6-7) has a strong base with good hands and touch in the paint.

Romulus Summit – Detroit Mercy commit Chance Houser (6-6) leads a well-rounded and deep squad. Houser is one of the best wings in the state, regardless of class. Point guard Jordan Fuller (5-11) has committed to D2 Tiffin University. He’s quick and plays with a very high I.Q. Marquan White (6-1) is a smooth and crafty guard who could lead the team in scoring most nights. Demetri Campbell (6-3) is an undersized, but determined, center. A host of tall, rangy forwards will compete for major frontcourt minutes: Bryce Mumford (6-5), King Pierce-Black (6-7) and Tylon Pitts (6-5). Mumford will likely get the first crack to start. The major coup for this team was securing highly ranked freshman Codey Bush (6-2). He has elite vision with great scoring upside.

Old Redford – Is it possible this team could be even better despite losing Jaquan Stennis? I think it is, as they now have one less mouth to feed on this explosive roster. Grand Valley State commit Drew Wilson (6-2) could flirt with 20 points per game as an aggressive floor general. Junior Devin Brown (6-3) just picked up an offer from Western Michigan. He’s a bruising guard with explosive athleticism just starting to reach his full potential. Jaylin Muldrow (6-2) is another strong guard with a nice 3-point jumper. He will help space the floor and is excellent on defense. Edward Johnson (5-11) has scoring upside and can help break a press. Raw senior center Trey Hill (6-9) might get a chance to play extended minutes in the paint. All he really needs to do is rebound, make some put backs and alter shots. The elite backcourt will handle the rest.