West Bloomfield Advances in District Play, Defeats Lakeland 67–42
WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI — February 23, 2026
By: Caleb Bushell | DVS Reporter
With postseason basketball comes urgency and West Bloomfield delivered.
In the MHSAA District First Round, the Lakers controlled tempo, tightened defensively in the second half, and pulled away from White Lake Lakeland for a convincing 67–42 playoff victory to advance.
After a competitive opening quarter, West Bloomfield’s defensive pressure and balanced scoring proved too much for Lakeland to overcome.
First Quarter - Playoff Energy Early
Score: West Bloomfield 18, Lakeland 17
Both teams opened with intensity. Lakeland came out aggressive from beyond the arc, confidently letting it fly from three-point range. West Bloomfield countered by attacking inside and mixing in timely perimeter shots of their own.
The Eagles’ early shooting kept things tight, but the Lakers’ ability to score at all three levels gave them a slim edge after one.
Second Quarter - Hood Settles the Lakers
Halftime: West Bloomfield 28, Lakeland 21
As the pace slowed and physicality increased, playoff basketball took shape.
That’s when Ryan Hood (#15) took control. Hood found his rhythm in the midrange, knocking down multiple pull-ups to stabilize the Lakers’ offense during key stretches.
Lakeland generated defensive stops but struggled to convert offensively, particularly from deep. West Bloomfield capitalized, extending the lead and entering halftime with momentum.
Third Quarter — Lakers Break It Open
Score: West Bloomfield 49, Lakeland 32
The third quarter proved decisive.
Lakeland turnovers began to mount as West Bloomfield’s defensive pressure disrupted passing lanes and forced rushed possessions. The Lakers converted those opportunities into transition buckets while executing efficiently in the half court.
Though Lakeland showed flashes of fight, Hood answered with timely midrange scoring, and the Lakers steadily grew their advantage.
By the end of the quarter, West Bloomfield had seized firm control.
Fourth Quarter — Defense Closes the Door
Final: West Bloomfield 67, Lakeland 42
With a district win within reach, the Lakers elevated their intensity.
West Bloomfield’s full-court pressure led to steals, blocks, and easy scoring chances. Lakeland struggled to break the press, resulting in rushed shots and empty possessions.
Confident shot-making and disciplined execution stretched the lead to 25 points, sealing the Lakers’ District First Round victory.
Key Contributors
West Bloomfield
Ryan Hood (#15): Midrange efficiency and offensive control
Nasir Moore (#23): Defensive pressure and energy on both ends
Final Takeaway
West Bloomfield’s defensive intensity, playoff composure, and balanced offense proved too much for Lakeland. Behind Ryan Hood’s steady scoring and a team-wide commitment to pressure defense, the Lakers advance in district play with authority.
