Sports Kickback Week 8 Michigan High School Team Rankings

Sports Kickback Week 8 Michigan High School Team Rankings

January 28, 2026

Week 8 of the Michigan high school basketball season came with challenges across the state. A Midwest winter storm caused widespread game cancellations, limited practice time, and forced many teams into long layoffs. Because of that, this week’s rankings reflect not just recent results, but overall body of work, consistency, and how teams have looked when they’ve been able to get on the floor.

Despite the chaos, several programs continue to separate themselves, and we also welcome a new name to the On the Border conversation.

1. East Lansing

East Lansing remains the standard. Even with weather disruptions, the Trojans hold firm at No. 1 behind elite guard play and championship-level consistency. KJ Torbert continues to look like the best player in Michigan, controlling games on both ends. With Kingston Thomas and DQ Stewart providing balance, East Lansing looks built for a deep postseason run.

2. Brother Rice

Brother Rice stays right on East Lansing’s heels. The backcourt of Jordan McDaniel and Greg Grays may be the most dangerous duo in the state, capable of swinging momentum in minutes. Trevor Smith brings their physical play on defense and half-court execution make them a nightmare matchup when games slow down late in the season.

3. Muskegon

Muskegon continues to prove why they belong in the top tier. James Martin has been a matchup problem all season, while AJ Lambers adds toughness and scoring versatility. Even with limited games this past week, the Big Reds’ resume and dominance keep them locked into the top three.

4. East Kentwood

East Kentwood has surged into the upper half of the rankings thanks to consistency and physical play. RJ Chapman anchors the team, while CJ Reynolds and Sammy Makuag give them athleticism across the floor. This is a group that’s getting better at the right time.

5. Avondale

Avondale remains steady after a quiet week due to cancellations. Jakob Liford and Ja’Don Bourgeois continue to lead a disciplined, well-coached team that executes on both ends. Their ability to win close games keeps them firmly in the top five.

6. Rockford

Rockford stays in the mix despite limited action. Jake Bascom leads a balanced attack, with Eli Wolfe and Jace Opuku providing depth and defensive versatility. When Rockford gets into rhythm offensively, they can compete with anyone on this list.

7. Lansing Waverly

Lansing Waverly holds steady after weather disruptions. Xavier Pendergrass remains one of the most reliable scorers in the state, while Derek Thomas adds experience and leadership. If this group can get back into game rhythm quickly, they could climb.

8. Detroit MLK

Detroit MLK continues to show flashes of high-level potential. Mareon Knott leads the charge, with Derrick Kilgore. Tyler Hunter has been out the last couple of games, he adds a big body in the paint and shows a nice shooting touch. Consistency will determine how far this team can go, but the ceiling is high.

9. Summit Academy

Summit Academy stays inside the top ten behind strong guard play. Codey Bush has been impressive as a freshman, while veterans Jordan Fuller and Marquan White give the team stability. This is one of the more balanced rosters in the state.

10. Northview

Northview slides into the No. 10 spot after an uneven week. Cam Ryans continues to be the engine, with Braydon Williams and Anthony Willis contributing on both ends. With more consistency, Northview could move back up quickly.

11. Kalamazoo Central

Kalamazoo Central checks in at No. 11 after being limited by cancellations. Isaiah Theodile, Davier White, Taveon Vaughn, and Kam Bean form a tough, physical core. If they get healthy and back into rhythm, Central has the tools to re-enter the top ten.

On the Border: Rochester

New Team – Undefeated

Rochester enters the rankings conversation as this week’s On the Border team — and they’ve earned it. Notably, Rochester is the only undefeated team on this entire list, an accomplishment that can’t be ignored, regardless of schedule or weather interruptions.

Led by Luke Lower and Nathan Tandy, Rochester has quietly taken care of business every night out. Their discipline, shot selection, and ability to close games have made them one of the most dangerous teams outside the top 12. If they continue winning, it’s only a matter of time before Rochester breaks fully into the rankings.

With weather improving and games resuming, Week 9 should bring major movement across the board. Expect shakeups, statement wins, and new names pushing for recognition as the postseason picture starts to take shape.

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