Freeland Defeats Summit Academy North 57–47 to Advance to State Championship

EAST LANSING, MI — March 13, 2026

By Donovan Fann | Detroit Varsity Sports

Freeland used a dominant second half to defeat Romulus Summit Academy North 57–47 in the Division 2 State Semifinal at the Breslin Center, advancing to the MHSAA State Championship game.

After a tight first half, Freeland pulled away behind strong defense, key rebounds, and consistent trips to the free-throw line.

First Quarter

Freeland opened the game with the first possession and quickly knocked down a deep three-pointer from #14.

Summit Academy North responded immediately as #2 connected on a three-pointer, helping the Dragons take control early. Freeland showed defensive energy with a huge rim-protecting block from #13, but Summit’s fast pace and aggressive offense allowed them to build momentum.

By the end of the quarter, Summit held a 15–9 lead.

Summit Academy North 15, Freeland 9

Second Quarter

Freeland came out with renewed energy in the second quarter.

Strong defensive pressure slowed Summit’s offense while #5 knocked down a big three-pointer, cutting the deficit to just one point at 20–19.

However, Summit answered quickly with a deep three of their own to maintain control. At halftime, the Dragons held a slim 23–21 lead, with Freeland #14 leading all scorers with 11 points.

Halftime: Summit Academy North 23, Freeland 21

Third Quarter

The momentum completely shifted after halftime.

Freeland tied the game early before #14 drilled another long three-pointer to give Freeland its first lead of the game. Defensive pressure and foul trouble began to impact Summit, while Freeland capitalized with multiple trips to the free-throw line.

Freeland’s offense caught fire late in the quarter as they extended their lead to 37–27, energizing the Freeland crowd at the Breslin Center.

Freeland 37, Summit Academy North 27

Fourth Quarter

Freeland continued its momentum early in the fourth quarter, attacking the paint and pushing the lead to 41–29.

Summit struggled to adjust defensively as fouls continued to send Freeland to the free-throw line. Although Summit managed to cut the lead to 52–40, time became a factor late in the game.

Freeland stayed composed in the closing minutes and sealed the 57–47 victory, earning a trip to the Division 2 State Championship game.

Final: Freeland 57, Summit Academy North 47

Final Takeaway

After trailing at halftime, Freeland dominated the second half with strong defense and efficient offense.

Summit Academy North fought hard early, but Freeland’s adjustments and ability to capitalize on fouls proved to be the difference.