Black Bears Basketball Players Earn NLL Honors

Several athletes recognized for standout seasons in the Northern Lights League

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Black Bears basketball teams at Cooks High School recently wrapped up their seasons with several athletes receiving recognition in the Northern Lights League (NLL). Caragan Thill was named the NLL Player of the Year and earned First Team honors, while teammate Payton Pederson also made the First Team. Destiny Bleau and Kentlee DesJarden were selected for the NLL Second Team.

Why it matters

The NLL is a competitive high school basketball league in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and these honors highlight the exceptional talent and hard work of the Black Bears players. Recognition at the league level can open doors for these student-athletes, potentially leading to college recruitment opportunities.

The details

Caragan Thill, a standout player for the Black Bears, was named the NLL Player of the Year in addition to earning First Team honors. Payton Pederson, another key contributor for Cooks High School, was also selected for the NLL First Team. Destiny Bleau and Kentlee DesJarden were recognized for their strong seasons with Second Team selections.

  • The Black Bears basketball teams recently wrapped up their seasons.

The players

Caragan Thill

NLL Player of the Year and First Team selection for the Black Bears basketball team.

Payton Pederson

NLL First Team selection for the Black Bears basketball team.

Destiny Bleau

NLL Second Team selection for the Black Bears basketball team.

Kentlee DesJarden

NLL Second Team selection for the Black Bears basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

These NLL honors showcase the exceptional talent and hard work of the Black Bears basketball players, and could lead to future opportunities for these student-athletes as they continue their athletic and academic careers.