The West Michigan Conference Lakes Division delivered a highly competitive girls basketball season last winter, and the 2024-25 campaign is shaping up to be just as intense. Fremont, Ludington, Montague, Whitehall, Orchard View, Manistee, and Oakridge each bring unique storylines into the year—ranging from defending championships to major roster transitions to programs aiming to take the next big step. With elite scorers, rising underclassmen, and experienced senior groups spread throughout the division, fans can expect another exciting season in one of West Michigan’s toughest leagues.
MANISTEE MARINERS
Manistee enters the 2024-25 season with confidence, senior leadership, and the clear goal of being competitive every night. The Mariners are aiming to finish above .500 and establish themselves as a difficult matchup in a stacked Rivers Division.
Returning Starters
Manistee brings back a strong senior core with experience and versatility across the floor.
- Alayna Edmondson (Sr., PG) – An All-Conference guard who drives everything Manistee does on both ends. She’s a true do-it-all playmaker.
- Lindsey Gardner (Sr., Wing) – A tough, physical wing who can shoot and defend.
- Avamae Fett (Sr., PF) – A standout interior presence with strong footwork and toughness inside.
Newcomers/New Players
Two additional frontcourt players could elevate Manistee’s depth:
- Shalyn Harmon (Sr., Post) – Adds size and experience inside.
- Maya Goodspeed (So., Forward) – A promising young talent who could grow into a consistent contributor.
Season Outlook
With seniors who have played together for years, team chemistry should be a major advantage. Every WMC game presents a challenge, but rivalry clashes with Ludington and matchups with conference powerhouse Fremont will be especially significant. If the Mariners can lean on their leadership and interior strength, they have the pieces for a winning season.
FREMONT PACKERS
Fremont is coming off a historic season that included an undefeated conference title, a district championship, and the program’s first trip to the regional finals in 47 years. Despite key losses, the Packers return elite talent, unmatched backcourt speed, and a winning culture that will again make them one of the most feared teams in the Lakes Division.
Returning Starters
- Taylor DeKuiper (Jr., 5’10 G) – All-Conference, All-Area, All-State HM. One of the area’s best all-around players. Averaged 13 points, 10.4 rebounds, 6.3 steals, 5.3 assists, and 1 block per game. Record-breaking efficiency and elite playmaking.
- Brynna Barnhart (Sr., 5’10 F) – Returning starter with 58 blocks last season and a strong offseason.
- Ella Shriver (Jr., 5’8 G) – Starting shooting guard with defensive impact (3.5 steals per game).
- Grace Evans (Sr., 5’6 G) – Three-year varsity leader with experience and poise.
- Anna Norris (Sr., 5’9 F) – Impact contributor from the bench last year, expected to step into a larger role.
- Taylor Johnson (Sr., 5’6 G) – Versatile defender who excels in Fremont’s pressure scheme.
Additional contributors expected to be key in the rotation:
- Breven Powell (So., G) – Energetic playmaker from a 17-3 JV team.
- Esther Vissia (So., G) – Athletic and versatile.
- Ava Krohn (Sr., G) – Good shooter and reliable team-first player.
- Ariana Tanner (Sr., C) – Provides physicality and interior depth.
- Roxy Martin (Jr., G) – Strong shooter and hard worker.
- Railee Durham (Fr., G) – Talented freshman who will contribute immediately.
Newcomers/New Players
While many top players return, the program adds freshmen and sophomores from a 17-3 JV team that will help replenish depth and quickness.
Season Outlook
The Packers will again rely on guard play, speed, and relentless pressure. Despite losing two stars, Fremont remains the team to beat, entering the year on a 24-game conference win streak. A loaded non-conference schedule—featuring Zeeland East, Fruitport at Van Andel Arena, Hart, Kent City, and others—will prepare them for another postseason run.
LUDINGTON ORIOLES
Ludington enters another season as a perennial contender after finishing just behind Fremont in the standings last year (8-4 WMC, 13-11 overall — 3rd in conference). With a strong defensive identity and a balanced offensive system, the Orioles consistently produce competitive teams capable of challenging for the top of the Lakes Division.
MONTAGUE WILDCATS
Montague enters the season as a young but exciting team aiming for a top-three finish in the Lakes Division. Speed, aggressiveness, and guard play will be the Wildcats’ strengths as they look to continue the program’s tradition of competitive basketball.
Returning Starters
- Gentry Knop (Sr., PG) – A senior point guard with varsity experience gained behind a strong senior-led group last year. A poised leader with strong basketball IQ.
Newcomers/New Players
A talented group of juniors will elevate the roster:
- Gabby Dietz (Jr., G)
- Molly Mulder (Jr., F)
- Annelyse Schneider (Jr., F)
- Addi Smith (Jr., G)
This class brings speed, strength, scoring ability, and chemistry after success together on JV.
Season Outlook
Most of the team has played together since middle school, giving Montague a strong foundation of chemistry. Expect the Wildcats to lean heavily on pace, ball pressure, and athleticism as they push for another winning season and a top-tier finish.
WHITEHALL VIKINGS
Whitehall enters the new season looking to break through the middle of the pack and return to winning form after a near .500 season (5-7 WMC, 11-12 overall — 4th in conference). The Vikings have consistently showcased athleticism, speed, and competitive grit, making them a tough matchup for anyone in the division.
MUSKEGON ORCHARD VIEW CARDINALS
Orchard View brings renewed optimism into the new season with a senior-heavy roster and a program focused on continued growth. After gaining valuable experience last winter, the Cardinals expect to be much more competitive in the Lakes Division.
Returning Starters
- Kadence Day (Sr.) – Strong senior leader, vocal and steady.
- Elixis Scott (Sr.) – Key contributor with toughness and experience.
- Jurnee Johnson (Sr.) – Skilled senior who leads by example on and off the court.
Newcomers/New Players
- Jazariya Cowart (Fr.) – A freshman standout who worked hard all summer and is expected to make an immediate impact.
Season Outlook
With seniors who understand the system and a promising newcomer, OV expects to take meaningful steps forward. Improved competitiveness in conference play is the goal, and the Cardinals believe they can turn close losses into wins this season.
MUSKEGON OAKRIDGE EAGLES
Oakridge enters the season looking to reset and rebuild after a challenging 2023-24 campaign (1-11 WMC, 2-19 overall). The Eagles will focus on improving fundamentals, developing younger players, and re-establishing the grit and toughness the program has been known for historically.
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