2024 SEASON PREVIEW: Saginaw Valley League-South

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>High school tryouts are on the horizon, just over a month away. Growing up, I remember the excitement of reading preview magazines for my favorite sports teams and learning about key players before the season started. The enthusiasm and excitement I have for the Michigan Varsity Girls Basketball season has been building since the end of AAU, which leads into my endeavor to write these conference preview articles. Every coach and team in the state has the desire to perform better than they did the previous season in their conference and in the playoffs. Each year there are coaching changes, graduations, transfers, and varsity additions that shift the dynamics of teams in the conference. The Saginaw Valley League consists of 12 teams who play each other once during the regular season and the league champion is crowned based on their conference record: there is no conference championship game. The league does not have divisions, but I have separated the 12 teams into a North and South division for writing purposes. My hope is that the league will return to its previous format of a North and South division with a conference crossover championship game in the future. In this SVL preview, I will share my predictions for the league as a whole and then one prospect for each team who I believe will be essential to their teams success this season. A poll was shared with all head coaches in the league and the results are included below.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">COACHES POLL (7 Responses of 12)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Q: Who will be the SVL champion?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Coaches: Saginaw Heritage 67%, Midland Dow 33%</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bell: Saginaw Heritage (Flint Powers runner-up)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Q: Who will win the 2024-25 SVL MVP Award?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Coaches: [player_tooltip player_id='613424' first='Kendyl' last='Smith'] 72%, [player_tooltip player_id='613943' first='Alesia' last='Ode'] 14%, [player_tooltip player_id='614649' first='Melanie' last='Kolnitys'] 14%</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bell: [player_tooltip player_id='613424' first='Kendyl' last='Smith'] ([player_tooltip player_id='613943' first='Alesia' last='Ode'] runner-up)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Q: Who will be the 2024-25 Darkhorse Team? (A team that wins and performs significantly better than expected based on last season)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Coaches: Midland High 86%, Mount Pleasant 14%</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bell: Midland High</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2023-24 Season Results</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>SVL Champion: Grand Blanc 11-0, Runner-Up: Midland Dow 10-1, SVL MVP: Chelsea Bishop, Runner-Up: [player_tooltip player_id='613424' first='Kendyl' last='Smith'], Darkhorse Team: Mount Pleasant</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flint Carman-Ainsworth</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Flint Carman-Ainsworth won the SVL championship with a 12-0 record in 2022 and they finished the 2023 season with a 6-5 record in conference play. The Cavaliers graduated Ravyn Guy (Schoolcraft) one of the most explosive two-way guards during her time in the SVL. Their aggressiveness and pressure will help them continue to compete and they have a pair of young guards who will be exciting to watch grow into top talents over the next few years ([player_tooltip player_id='912522' first='Maraeyah' last='Smith'] &amp; [player_tooltip player_id='928000' first='Jada' last='Price']). </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["912522"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28d3b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Maraeyah has been an exciting guard to watch on the travel circuit and I expect her to be a leader on the court for Carmain-Ainsworth this season. Her explosive steps driving to the basket, toughness finishing in traffic, pesky ball-pressure, and ability to knock down 3s can terrorize opposing teams in the conference. Maraeyah has speed and aggressiveness that creates transition offense, steals, and advantages for her team. When all is said and done, I anticipate Maraeyah will be in the All-Conference conversation after this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2024/07/june-rankings-update-new-2027-guards-ranked/">Read More About Maraeyah</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flint Powers Catholic</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Flint Powers Catholic went from a very competitive team in 2022-23 to a conference contender and deep playoff team in 2023. Amaya and [player_tooltip player_id='613424' first='Kendyl' last='Smith'] joined the Chargers last season and ignited the group, helping the team achieve an impressive 9-2 conference record, district title, regional title, and trip to the quarterfinals. Amaya earned All-Conference 2nd Team Honors last season; her 3-point shooting efficiency, defensive presence, and leadership will be missed. However, the addition of inside presence and top-ten prospect [player_tooltip player_id='932758' first='Evah' last='Smith'] gives Powers a new advantage on the court and SVL coaches will soon find out how impressive she is on both ends of the court. With additional complimentary players and quality coaching, I expect Powers to be in the mix for an SVL championship this year, which is why I have selected them as my runner-up. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["502319"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28db3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Paige is one of those players for Powers who isn't typically in the spotlight, but was certainly essential to the team's success last season. Paige is an explosive driver when she faces up and puts the ball on the floor. She has great footwork using pivots in the low post and converts layups with balance. Paige battles for rebounds, protects the basket, and makes the effort plays. Paige will be an important part of the team again this year and her determined performance in the regional finals was impressive to watch live. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2024/03/michigan-high-school-regional-finals/">Read More About Paige</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Davison</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Davison had high expectations heading into the 2023-24 season, selected by the coaches as the conference darkhorse team. The Cardinals finished with a 1-10 conference record, but their returning group is hungry to avenge last season's performance. Marionna Dixon (2024, Great Lakes Christian) is gone, but the team brings back 2025 depth with guards [player_tooltip player_id='796709' first='Gracie' last='Wright'], [player_tooltip player_id='835602' first='Brooke' last='Pizzala'], [player_tooltip player_id='854662' first='Mayae' last='Carradine'], and [player_tooltip player_id='716682' first='Lilah' last='Pierson']. The Cardinals have a clear advantage in the paint with three 6-footers: [player_tooltip player_id='716477' first='Brooklyn' last='Hughson'] (2025), [player_tooltip player_id='923880' first='Savannah' last='Rice'] (2026), and [player_tooltip player_id='801855' first='Darby' last='Crystal'] (2026). I expect the Cardinals to move up a tier in conference play this year and have a respectable season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["923880"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28e1c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Savannah had moments of dominance as a sophomore and she appears ready to take a quantum leap for Davison as a junior. Savannah has demonstrated improvement in her ball-handling, shooting, footwork, and finishing. She has been a strong presence as a shot blocker and scorer in the paint during fall league. Savannah is starting to become a consistent threat for the Cardinals and I expect her to be an All-Conference level post player in the SVL this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2024/06/northwood-team-camp-howl-about-that/">Read More About Savannah </a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Grand Blanc</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Grand Blanc went on a magical run last season: SVL champion with an 11-0 record, district championship, regional championship, and finishing as the state runner-up to West Bloomfield in the finals. Chelsea Bishop (2024, EMU) won the SVL MVP and Bob Taylor won SVL Coach of the Year in his first year leading the Bobcats. [player_tooltip player_id='419538' first='Rayven' last='McQueen'] (2025, Detroit Mercy) set the standard for pts and rebounds per game against conference opponents last season and her performance in the paint will be essential to the teams success this year. With the graduation of Bishop (2024, EMU), Kate DeWitt (2024, Wayne Softball), and departure of [player_tooltip player_id='336021' first='Malaya' last='Brown'] (2025), their crafty guards [player_tooltip player_id='336000' first='Damaya' last='Hartwick'] and [player_tooltip player_id='502320' first='Parc' last='Liggins'] will need to step up in a big way. Based on their contribution last season and performances during the off-season, they look ready for the challenge. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["502320"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28e69"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Parc was the perfect complement to Chelsea last season and she will need to take another step forward to spark the team on both ends. Parc is a dangerous pull-up shooter in the mid-range and from the perimeter. She uses her quickness to create steals and pressure opposing ball-handlers. Parc sees the floor very well and creates open shots for teammates with her passes. I anticipate Parc to break out this season, lead on both ends of the court, and perform at an All-Conference level this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2024/07/the-national-championship-2026-notebook/">Read More About Parc</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lapeer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lapeer ended their 3-year winless streak in the SVL, winning 3 conference games in 2022. The Lightning beat Midland High for the first time in school history, defeated Saginaw High on a thrilling 3-point shot in the final seconds by Sephora Miller, and added another gut-wrenching victory at Bay City Central. After winning 3 conference games in 2022 the team had hopes of building upon that success in 2023, but those hopes never materialized. The Lightning ended the 2023 season with an 0-11 conference record, but were able to defeat SVL opponent Davison in a home non-conference game to earn their first win against the Cardinals since 2019. The Lightning also defeated Holly in the first round of districts to secure their first playoff win since 2020 and end their season on a positive note. The Lightning will look to bounce back after losing foundational seniors: Lexi Norman (2024, Albion Volleyball), Madison Spanicciati (2024, OCC), and Sephora Miller (2024). </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["860196"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":1046865,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28ee8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jayla had a breakout campaign for Lapeer in 2023 with dominant performances in the paint including a 26-point performance against Brandon and 19-point, 19-rebound game against SVL opponent Heritage. Jayla was one of the best statistical post players in the league last year averaging 10.6 pts, 7.5 rebounds, and 1 block per game against SVL opponents. Jayla is a passionate competitor who has an effective drop step in the low post and shot blocking presence on the defensive end. Jayla will be a center college coaches should take time to see this winter for Lapeer. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2023/12/clutch-performances-high-school-girls-basketball/">Read More About Jayla</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Saginaw United</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Saginaw High and Arthur Hill merged their girls basketball programs to become Saginaw United in 2023. The team finished a respectable 6-5 in the conference with two of their star seniors earning All-Conference Honors. This year will be a new-looking squad with two of the SVL's best guards, Raegan Byrd (2024, Schoolcraft) and Ivy Woods (2024, Delta) graduating. Monica Hibbler (2024, Schoolcraft) was a fierce paint presence in her own right last season and I am eager to see who steps up for the team this winter. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["908195"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6706d48c28f34"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Destiny frequently impacted games on the PGH travel circuit with Pride 21 and I expect her to have the same effect for Saginaw United this winter. She elevates to block shots, pursues rebounds, and sets the tone defensively with her effort. Destiny has power finishing layups at the rim off two feet and I expect her to be a key player for her team this winter. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2024/05/pgh-live-17u-bells-best-power-forwards/">Read More About Destiny</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">At the Buzzer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Evan Bell</strong>&nbsp;is currently a scout for Prep Girls Hoops and Director of&nbsp;<a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><strong><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/program/prepare-2-win-basketball/"><strong>[program_tooltip program_id='923712' first='Prepare' last='2 Win Basketball']</strong></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;. Our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prepnetwork.com/frequently-asked-questions/">mission</a>&nbsp;at PGH is to cover as many athletes with D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO potential in the state as possible. If you know a prospect off our radar, please DM Evan through Twitter @CoachEvanBell or email him at coachevanbell@gmail.com</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->