Macomb Dakota flexes muscle against Flint Elite at The D Zone Playoff Tune-up

GROSSE POINTE - Macomb Dakota controlled the game Saturday, leading to a convincing 72-48 win against Flint Elite at The D Zone Playoff Tune-up.

Flint Elite lost starter Jhirnea Harris (6-5) in the first quarter with an apparent ankle injury and he never returned. The team lost a bit of its luster after that.

Dakota took advantage, utilizing its depth and athleticism to pull away. Dakota was also locked in from the free-throw line, making it difficult for Flint Elite to strike any sort of comeback.

Dakota MVP: DeKovan Thomas, 6-2, Jr.

A really good player, overall, who possesses a nice outside shot and displayed the ability and toughness to finish in the lane through traffic. Impressed with his athleticism and ability to play within the system and share the ball. Thomas is one of three or four solid juniors on this intriguing squad. He finished Saturday’s game with 16 points.

Flint Elite MVP: Jeffery Turner, 6-1, Jr.

Turner is an explosive player who showcased the ability to slash and shoot. Turner alone could lead a team pretty far in the state tournament, but Flint has a really tough district this year. Turner scored a team-high 18 points, sharing the scoring responsibilities with freshman AJ Smith (5-6). That duo will be exciting to watch the rest of this season and next.

Team Analysis

Macomb Dakota

The Cougars are led by three very intriguing scorers. Thomas (mentioned above), Tovin Williams (6-2) and Brayden Lee (6-6). They attack from either wing and the post. All three can hit 3-pointers and have the athleticism to create problems defensively. Dakota is deep with impact players and have nice overall size. Dakota always seems to be tough and have a knack for winning the district. If this team can continue knocking down shots and force turnovers, they could be a tough out in a side of the bracket mostly up for grabs.