Bell’s Best Games: Dec. 15th-19th

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Week one of the 2025-26 high school girls' basketball season did not disappoint! Here are the results from <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/2025/12/bells-best-games-dec-8th-12th/">Bell's Best Games Dec. 8th-12th</a>: </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#5 Manton (D3) defeated #13 Buckley (D4) 55-47</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#2 Morenci (D4) defeated #8 Concord (D4) 58-25</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#8 Beaverton (D3) defeated #5 Sacred Heart (D4) 67-57</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#3 Grass Lake (D3) defeated #9 Fa. Gabriel Richard (D2) 45-40 </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#6 Detroit Edison (D2) defeated #13 Chelsea (D2) 49-35</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Powers vs. Midland was postponed due to inclement weather</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#7 Grand Rapids West Catholic (D2) defeated #11 Parma Western (D2) 48-33</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#1 Lumen Christi (D3) defeated #10 Michigan Center (D2) 50-28</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p># 6 Mio (D4) vs. #5 Manton (D3) canceled due to inclement weather</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#1 Ishpeming (D4) defeated Calumet (D3) 47-35</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#8 Muskegon (D1) defeated #7 Grand Rapids West Catholic 47-25</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#6 Cass City (D3) defeated #9 Sandord Meridian (D3) 52-50</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Portland (D2) defeated Lansing Waverly (D1) 54-33</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>South Lyon East (D1) defeated Saline (D1) 58-44</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Teams are gaining confidence and hitting their stride as they put more games behind them. Below, I take a closer look at a marquee matchup happening throughout the week and list several bonus games you'll want to pay attention to. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Monday, December 15th</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#3 Goodrich (2-0, D2) at #8 Utica Eisenhower (2-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>X-Factors: [player_tooltip player_id='933515' first='Janielle' last='Turner'] and [player_tooltip player_id='807312' first='Baylor' last='Lauinger']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Goodrich and Eisenhower didn't break much of a sweat in their first two games of the season. Goodrich outscored their opponents by 120 points, while Eisenhower outscored their opponents by 56. One squad is leaving the gym undefeated, and both teams have extremely talented prospects taking the floor. Goodrich has the home court advantage, and their dynamic group of perimeter players will be difficult to defend for 32 minutes. Eisenhower will need to win the rebounding battle, score inside, and limit open threes to pull off the upset.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["933515"],"_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-694183548745e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">With two of Eisenhower's star 2028 guards inactive on Saturday, the Eagles needed Janielle to step up. She did that and then some at the Best of Michigan Holiday Classic. Janielle led the team with 15 points and ripped the nets from downtown with four triples. Her pressure defense led to three steals, and Janielle fired passes across the court to open teammates. She pushes the tempo to create transition scoring and has a great opportunity to compete against a tough backcourt tonight.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["807312"],"_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-69418354874f3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Baylor is a two-way guard whose lockdown defense, determined rebounding, tough drives/finishes, unselfish passes, and clutch playmaking make her very difficult for opposing backcourts to match up against. Her aggressive downhill style puts teams in foul trouble and Baylor wears out defenders on the offensive glass with her relentless pursuit of the ball. She can tilt the outcome in Goodrich's favor with an elite performance on both ends.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tuesday, December 16th</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#6 St. Mary's Prep (2-0, D1) at #12 Clarkston (3-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>X-Factors: [player_tooltip player_id='807303' first='Reese' last='Holton'] and [player_tooltip player_id='980264' first='Bella' last='Flavin']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Clarkston will enter this game beaming with confidence after earning a statement win on the road at Northville. St. Mary's Prep defeated both opponents by 50 points or more last week, so they won't be lacking any confidence either. St. Mary's Prep defeated Clarkston 44-37 last year, and both squads will be looking to keep their undefeated season intact. With game-breaking guards on both teams, it feels like this game could be won or lost in the paint. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["807303"],"_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-694183548756a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Reese is a top-five junior forward in her class, and if she wins the battle inside, it could propel St. Mary's Prep to a statement win. Her skillful footwork, finishing touch, passing vision, and ability to score as a face-up driver create mismatches. Reese can step outside to hit perimeter jumpers, and she doesn't get moved off her spots. Reese uses her shoulder well to create space against contesting defenders and keeps her balance by going up off two feet. She protects the basket as a shot blocker and will be a key player in this game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["980264"],"_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-69418354875db"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Bella needed to fill big shoes for Clarkston this season with productive senior forwards graduating, and she's doing just that. Bella uses pivots effectively in the paint to create open looks at the basket, goes up strong, finishes off two, and is a determined rebounder with excellent anticipation. She can step outside to hit perimeter jumpers and works hard on defense. Bella put up 11 points in the opener, and she'll have an exciting opportunity to compete against a pair of talented forward prospects tonight.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday, December 18th</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Plymouth (3-0, D1) at #6 Howell (3-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>X-Factors: [player_tooltip player_id='613422' first='Lilly' last='Williams'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1049528' first='Annie' last='Flavin']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The rubber is about to meet the road in this KLAA West collision between Howell and Plymouth. Both teams are red hot after winning their first three games. Last season, each team hopped on a bus and came home with bragging rights. Plymouth defeated Howell 50-47, and Howell returned the favor, 46-42. The Highlanders are looking to prove last year's loss was a fluke, while Plymouth aims to make a statement that they are a legitimate division title contender this season. Both teams have a three-point sniper lurking on the perimeter. It's [player_tooltip player_id='613940' first='Gabby' last='Piepho'] (Northwood) for Howell and [player_tooltip player_id='982795' first='Mackenzie' last='Dicken'] (Alma) for Plymouth. However, assuming neither team relinquishes the open three, I believe the outcome will be decided by which 6-footer can protect the rim, own the boards, and clean up around the basket better---while also staying out of foul trouble. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1049528"],"_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-694183548764d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Annie is a D1 golf prospect (Western Michigan) whose powerful 6-foot stature makes a huge impact for Plymouth in the post. She runs the floor well in transition, converts shots efficiently around the basket off two feet, works hard to secure rebounds, and protects the paint as a shot blocker. Annie will face her toughest assignment to date: slowing down Michigan's #1 big. If she can, Plymouth will be very competitive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["613422"],"_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-69418354876b8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lilly turned in a dominant double-double performance at the Best of Michigan Classic vs. #6 Detroit Edison. She took away high percentage shots for the opponent with her length and quick help-side rotations in the paint. Lilly finished with power through contact off two feet and muscled her way into position to score offensive rebound put-backs. Lilly's 16 points, 12 rebounds, and six blocks propelled Howell to a 41-26 win. She'll be the x-factor again for the Highlanders vs. Plymouth.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Friday, December 19th</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Grand Rapids Catholic Central (1-0, D2) at #2 Grand Rapids South Christian (1-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>X-Factors: [player_tooltip player_id='734966' first='Hailey' last='Durland'] and [player_tooltip player_id='919220' first='Sophia' last='Prins']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>South Christian pulled out a narrow 42-39 win vs. Catholic Central last season. Both teams won their week one openers and are motivated to earn a statement win in this matchup. The perimeter play should be off the charts as both teams feature dynamic college guards who can penetrate, facilitate, and convert off-platform finishes in traffic. Let's take a closer look at the two point guards. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["734966"],"_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-6941835487720"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Hailey is a dynamic point guard who creates space with sudden changes of direction and elusive dribble combinations. She's tough as nails, clutch, active on defense, and makes the effort plays. Hailey is a dangerous three-point shooter who delivers crisp passes to open teammates as she drives. She finishes through contact and can convert acrobatic shots in traffic. Hailey will be a major impact factor in the outcome of this game. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["919220"],"_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-6941835487785"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sophia gives South Christian an advantage at the lead guard spot. She's constantly scanning the floor as she pushes the tempo in transition and attacks open driving lanes. Sophia is a dangerous three-point shooter, scrappy on-ball defender with quick feet, and an excellent distributor. Her crafty skills, ability to finish through contact, and comprehensive impact will be a deciding factor in this game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">BONUS GAMES</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Monday, December 15th</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#11 Midland (1-1, D1) at Hartland (3-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#13 Frankenmuth (2-0, D2) at #5 Flint Powers Catholic (1-0, D2)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#15 Calumet (1-1, D3) at #10 Negaunee (2-0, D2)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Tuesday, December 16th</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#12 Michigan Center (2-1, D2) at Brooklyn Columbia Central (2-0, D3)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Holt (2-0, D1) at DeWitt (2-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hemlock (2-0, D3) at #6 Cass City (2-0, D3)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#4 McBain (2-0, D3) at #5 Manton (2-0, D3)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#2 Rockford (2-0, D1) at #4 Muskegon (2-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#15 South Lyon East (3-0, D1) at Plymouth (3-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#3 Pewamo-Westphalia (2-0, D3) at #14 Portland St. Patrick (2-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Wednesday, December 17th</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Rochester Hills Stoney Creek (3-0, D1) at #3 Goodrich (2-0, D2)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#11 Midland (1-1, D1) at #9 Saginaw Heritage (1-1, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Thursday, December 18th</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#7 Detroit Country Day (1-1, D1) at #12 Clarkston (3-0, D1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Friday, December 19th</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#15 Calumet (1-1, D3) at #4 L'Anse (2-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#9 AA Fa. Gabriel Richard (1-1) at #1 Lumen Christi (2-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#14 Kent City (2-0, D3) at Central Montcalm (2-0)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>#10 Lawton (2-0) at Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep (1-1)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->