Saginaw Valley League: Upperclassmen To Watch This Year
The Saginaw Valley League has long been one of Michigan’s premiere hoop conferences. Recently, perhaps due to top players transferring out of state to prep schools, the Valley has been down compared to normal standards. With that being said, do not make the mistake of thinking there is any shortage of talent. Here are some upperclassmen I believe are poised to have a big year:
Mike Fletcher (Flint Carman-Ainsworth, 2019) – Fletcher is perhaps the top player in the Valley this year. The 6’8″ big man is, simply put, a tank on the court – proof of this comes via his double-digit D1 football offers, including multiple high-major. On the court, however, he’s a bully down low, dominating the paint in every way imaginable. What makes Fletcher unique, however, is his ability to move. He’s mobile and light on his feet given his size, which helps him run the floor and even take the ball up the court on occasion. Look for him to have a monster 2018-19 year.
Ja’Kavien Lewis (Flint Carman-Ainsworth, 2018) – Lewis and Fletcher will pair up to be one of the toughest defensive big-guard duos in the state. Lewis, who’s one of the top defenders in the state, recently picked up an offer from Northwood. He’s not just a defensive specialist, however – his playmaking ability is very underrated. Look for Lewis to play with something to prove this season and have a great year.
Jokwani Moore (Saginaw Arthur Hill, 2018) – Moore is a sleeper around the state, but those in the Valley know him well. Last year, I watched him in district playoff action and was impressed. He has a variety of attributes that make him a quality player – great handles, great finishing ability, solid height/length for a guard, super quick, good vertical and a capable jumpshot.
Cade Coleman (Davison, 2019) – The 6’6″ sniper is poised for a huge year. A teammate of Fletcher’s in AAU, Coleman had a solid spring/summer running with Greenwood Elite. The skilled shooter has the size and skills to have a big year.
Austin Roland (Davison, 2018) – A kid who’s currently in the midst of a successful football season for Davison, Roland plays with that football-player toughness on the court. He has all the physical tools (except height) – strength, quickness, speed, leaping ability and physicality. His athleticism and toughness allow him to play much bigger than his actual size. The lefty has great handles and a great ability to finish, a combination that makes him dangerous given the fact that he’ll hit shots from anywhere if left open. Roland and Coleman will be a tough guard-wing duo this year at Davison.