Defending Champ Belleville Faces DeWitt in Marquee Quarterfinal Rematch

The winner advances to the state semifinals with a Final Four berth on the line.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:50am

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The MHSAA Division 1 state tournament delivers a marquee quarterfinal rematch on Tuesday night when the defending champion Belleville Tigers (25-1) square off against the DeWitt Panthers (21-4) at Mason High School Fieldhouse. Belleville edged DeWitt 59-54 in last year's quarterfinal, and both programs return to the neutral court with legitimate Final Four aspirations.

Why it matters

This highly anticipated rematch features two of Michigan's top girls basketball programs battling for a spot in the state semifinals. Belleville is led by one of the state's top-ranked players, while DeWitt counters with a balanced attack. The winner will advance to face either Dearborn or Detroit Renaissance in the Final Four.

The details

Belleville head coach Jason Wilkins fields one of Michigan's most explosive offensive lineups, anchored by four-star junior wing Sydney Savoury — the state's top-ranked player in the 2027 class — alongside proven perimeter threats Se'crette Carter, Layla Stewart and Paisley Stephens. DeWitt head coach Bill McCullen counters with a balanced attack led by seniors Sophia Beland and forward Carly Dennis, plus juniors Golden Nicholson and guard Jaynie English.

  • The game is set for Tuesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. ET.
  • The winner will advance to the state semifinals on Friday.

The players

Sydney Savoury

A four-star junior wing and the state's top-ranked player in the 2027 class, leading Belleville's explosive offense.

Sophia Beland

A senior leader for DeWitt, part of the Panthers' balanced attack.

Jason Wilkins

The head coach of the defending state champion Belleville Tigers.

Bill McCullen

The head coach of the DeWitt Panthers, guiding his team through a 21-win campaign.

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What they’re saying

“This is a huge game for both teams, with a spot in the Final Four on the line. Belleville and DeWitt have built a great rivalry, and I expect another close, hard-fought battle.”

— Jason Wilkins, Belleville Head Coach

“We're excited for the opportunity to avenge last year's loss and earn a trip to the semifinals. Belleville is an excellent team, but we believe we have the talent and experience to get the job done.”

— Bill McCullen, DeWitt Head Coach

What’s next

The winner of Tuesday's quarterfinal matchup will advance to face either Dearborn or Detroit Renaissance in the state semifinals on Friday, March 21 in East Lansing.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated rematch between two of Michigan's top girls basketball programs will determine which team earns a spot in the Final Four. With both teams returning key players from last year's meeting, the stage is set for another close, competitive battle with a trip to the state semifinals on the line.