Ludington clinches share of league title with win over Manistee

Orioles hold off late Manistee rally to secure at least a share of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division championship

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Ludington girls basketball team secured at least a share of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division title with a hard-fought 60-51 road win over Manistee on Friday night. Ludington held a 38-27 lead at halftime and extended its advantage to as many as 18 points in the fourth quarter, but Manistee rallied to cut the deficit to just seven points with a minute left to play. Ludington ultimately survived down the stretch to pick up its third straight win and a share of its first league title since the 2022-23 season.

Why it matters

Ludington's victory over rival Manistee clinches at least a share of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division title, a significant accomplishment for the Orioles program. The win also highlights the competitive nature of the conference, as Manistee made a late push to try and overcome Ludington's large lead.

The details

In the game, Ludington held a 38-27 advantage at halftime and extended its lead to as much as 18 points in the fourth quarter. However, Manistee mounted a furious comeback, cutting the deficit to just seven points with a minute remaining. Ludington was able to hold on for the 60-51 victory, picking up its third straight win and a share of the league title.

  • Ludington held a 38-27 lead at halftime.
  • Ludington extended its advantage to as many as 18 points in the fourth quarter.
  • Manistee cut the deficit to just seven points with a minute left to play.

The players

Ludington

The Ludington girls basketball team secured at least a share of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division title with the win.

Manistee

Manistee made a late push to try and overcome Ludington's large lead, cutting the deficit to just seven points with a minute remaining.

Warren Stowe

Ludington's head coach, who was pleased with the team's road win against a rival.

Kenn Kott

Manistee's head coach, who acknowledged his team's improved performance compared to the last time they played Ludington.

Claire Keith

Ludington player who finished with 13 points to lead the team.

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What they’re saying

“Anytime you can win a road game against a rival, you are pleased.”

— Warren Stowe, Ludington head coach (mlive.com)

“We missed some big shots, and definitely could have done better at the foul line. But compared to the last time we played them, a tremendous improvement. The ladies played hard.”

— Kenn Kott, Manistee head coach (mlive.com)

The takeaway

Ludington's hard-fought victory over rival Manistee showcases the competitive nature of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division, as the Orioles were able to hold off a late Manistee rally to clinch at least a share of the league title. The game highlights the resilience and determination of both teams as they battle for conference supremacy.