State-ranked squads among Grand Rapids-area girls prep hoops teams on the rise

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The Associated Press has released its latest Michigan girls high school basketball rankings, and the Grand Rapids area is well-represented near the top of Division 1 and 2. Returning state runner-up Rockford is ranked No. 3 in Division 1, while undefeated South Christian is the top team in Division 2, followed by a trio of Grand Rapids-area squads in No. 5 West Catholic, No. 6 Covenant Christian and No. 7 GR Catholic Central. Several local teams, including Rockford, South Christian, Thornapple Kellogg, Unity Christian, and Hopkins, are on the rise and establishing themselves as state title contenders as the playoffs approach.

Why it matters

The strong performance of Grand Rapids-area girls basketball teams in the state rankings highlights the region's growing strength in high school hoops. With several squads positioned to make deep playoff runs, the Grand Rapids community is poised to celebrate potential state championships and the continued development of local talent.

The details

Rockford has won 13 straight games since a December loss, including a recent 63-40 victory over Division 2 No. 7 Haslett. Undefeated South Christian is the top-ranked team in Division 2, while Thornapple Kellogg has won four in a row, including an upset of West Catholic. Unity Christian has won six of its last seven games, and Hopkins is riding a 10-game winning streak led by standout senior Cora Hall.

• The Associated Press released its fifth set of Michigan girls high school basketball rankings this week.
• The playoffs are set to begin in 16 days.