By BUTCH HARMON
CLASS D
Top teams statewide
Frankfort, Sacred Heart Academy, St. Ignace
Top area teams
Fowler, Lansing Christian, Morrice, Sacred Heart Academy, Portland St. Patrick Catholic
Top area players
Meggan Andrews, Ashley; Avery Gamble, Sacred Heart Academy; Kara Schafer, Fowler; Mackenzie Smith, Portland St. Patrick Catholic; Courtney Wolf, Morrice
Sacred Heart Academy enjoyed a memorable ride last season that didn’t end until it cut down the nets after winning the Class D state championship at the Breslin Center. While the Irish suffered some key graduation losses, enough talent returns to put together another season to remember. Junior center Avery Gamble (6’3″) earned all-state honors last season by averaging 13 points and nine rebounds per game. Lexi Methner is another strong front court player. Senior guard Riley Terwilliger is also back after averaging 10 points per game last year.
Lansing Christian captured district and regional titles last year. The Pilgrims will build around senior guard/forward Rachelle Trafford (5’6″) along with junior forward/center Lina Moore (5’9″).
Morrice won 17 games last season, and a strong group of returnees are back for more success this winter. Senior guard Courtney Wolf earned all-state honors for the Orioles. Junior forward Averi Munroe earned all-conference honors, while senior Krysta Smith returns to run the point.
Fowler enjoyed a big volleyball season, and many of those same athletes look to carry the success over into basketball. Senior point guard Kara Schafer is a returning all-conference selection, while senior forward Allison Hufnagel also earned all-conference honors.
Portland St. Patrick Catholic placed second in the CMAC last season. Senior forward Mackenzie Smith (5’10”) is a talented forward who will anchor the front line, while senior guard Riley Smith returns to head up the backcourt.
Fulton graduated a number of players from last year’s squad and is rebuilding this season. Junior guard Connor Proctor is a returnee who averaged in double figures scoring last year.