MHSAA Preview: Four more for Division IV
At the beginning of June I provided a “way-to-early” look at the top 10 in each of the MHSAA’s four divisions. While acknowledging that the lists were early and very subject to change. I was probably least satisfied with the list in Michigan’s smallest classification. As you will see this is primarily due to my uncertainty over who was actually in the division.
As we approach August and with the district pairings released. I thought I would expand things a bit. This is not a revision. A few of these teams will definitely end up in the final preseason top 10 (whenever that may be) Last years record’s are in parentheses
Munising (27-1) As I stated when I released the initial top 10. I did not place the returning state champion under the assumption they would be playing up in Division III. They are back in IV and will appear somewhere in the top 10. Where that will be will depend on the development of three soon to be junior contributors. The loss of senior leader Kane Nebel is a big void to fill. However the Mustangs were much more than a one man show. Trevor Nolan will run the show from the point assuming much a Nebel’s playmaking duties. He’s not very big but battle tested both in the regular season and offseason. Having ran with Great Northern Elite in grassroots basketball. Size and versatility will come in the form of the 6-3 duo of Carson Kienitz and Jack Dusseault.
Saginaw Nouvel (21-5) Like Munising, another squad I omitted due to assuming they would be in Division III. Unlike Munising, Nouvel actually played there last year. Acquitting themselves quite well. Falling in the regional final to eventual state champion Flint Beecher. Back in IV they are definitely in state title contention. The backcourt composed of twin brothers MJ and Donny Yeager rightfully get most of the attention. They have everything you want to see in lead guard prospects except size. Elite shooters, passers, and ball handlers. They are coming off a big summer with The Program in grassroots basketball. There are some intriguing prospects down low. Led by gridiron standout Preston Otter (6-3)
Colon (18-7) Coming off a regional final appearance. This rural school tucked in the southwest corner of the state could be a factor. If not this year maybe the year after. As they should be led by two non seniors in the coming season. I caught the duo of Dominic Mock and Dalton Williams at an elite camp Ferris St in early June. Mock is a 6-1 guard who will take on a larger role in the coming season. Williams is a 6-3 sophomore who might have the most long term potential on the team.
As a completely unrelated side note. Colon’s athletic teams are known as the “Magi”. The reasons why are for another column. That is an all time mascot that might only be bested by fellow Division IV contender Watersmeet (Nimrods) For that reason alone this squad deserves mention.
McBain Northern Michigan Christian (17-7) Two years ago this small parochial school seemingly came out of nowhere to earn an undefeated regular season and number 1 ranking. They were led by Trevin Winkle (Calvin) and solid supporting cast. I don’t see that level success happening for this squad. However they have a player to build around in 6-5 Ethan Bennett. They also have intriguing supporting cast of younger players coming up. This group has been able to play up often due to the Comets small enrollment.
As the only Division IV school in the always competitive Highland Conference. NMC will probably not sport a great record at the end of the year. Breaking in a new coach and and system could also factor into a slow start. However despite the record. They could be set up nicely for a deep March run.
