Orchard Lake St. Mary’s basketball ooks to continue dominance in district By Christian Davis If tradition meant anything, the Orchard Lake St. Mary’s boys basketball team would be expected to take another Class A district title. But with a young squad and some inconsistent play, coach George Porritt knows nothing is guaranteed. “You hope that tradition plays a part, but each year is a new year and you have to play hard,” said Porritt, whose squad was 5-13 at press time. “That’s what’s fun about it. Some teams get better over the course of the year, and maybe their record doesn’t indicate how well they’ve played. … Hopefully, we finish strong this week and make a run.” District host West Bloomfield High opened the tournament against North Farmington March 8, after press time. Farmington Hills Harrison and Walled Lake Western also played an opening round game. The Eaglets play the winner of the West Bloomfield-North Farmington game at 5:30 p.m. March 10. Farmington High plays the winner of the Western-Harrison match at 7 p.m. March 10. The final is set for 7 p.m. March 12. “I think North Farmington is probably the favorite right now, but it’s districts — the state tournament, march madness — and that’s why it’s fun for the guys and you aim for it all year,” Porritt said. “Play your best and see where you end up.” For the last four seasons, the Eaglets have ended up as district champs. Since 1999, they’ve won seven district titles, four regional crowns and a Class B state championship in 2000. “Hopefully, the team will take it as a fresh start. You go back to 0-0 and you have to still believe,” Porritt said. “It’s a tough district, but if we play well, we know we have a chance.” In other local hoops action: Should Northern win, it will play Howell High at 5:30 p.m. March 10, and Central would play Howell High at 7 p.m. March 10. The final is 7 p.m. March 12. You can reach Sports Writer Christian Davis at cdavis@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1062. |
