Michigan’s premier high school championship showdown, Operation Friendship Basketball, brings together the Catholic High School League and Detroit Public School League to battle for the coveted “City Champion” title. The rivalry started in 1947 and set a state record that still stands today with 16,041 fans packing the arena. The Public School League dominates the all-time series with a 42-22 lead, though the Catholic League has shown strength over the last several years. The latest chapter of this storied tradition saw an electrifying finish as Orchard Lake St. Mary’s secured their sixth consecutive win. They edged Detroit Renaissance 76-73 in overtime, with Mr. Basketball finalists Trey McKenney and Lance Stone putting on a spectacular show by scoring 26 points each.
OLSM Edges Renaissance in Nail-Biting Overtime
OLSM pulled off a 76-73 win against Detroit Renaissance in a thrilling overtime game at Calihan Hall. Both teams showed exceptional skill during the game’s most significant moments. Trey McKenney kept his cool under pressure and scored 18 of his 26 points in the second half and overtime. He kicked off the overtime scoring with four straight points to build momentum for OLSM. His turnaround 15-foot jumper gave OLSM the lead, and he followed it up with an aggressive drive that led to vital free throws.
“I think I am built for those kind of moments when it’s crunch time,” McKenney said after his outstanding game. His excellent free-throw shooting this season proved to be a great asset, as shown by his perfect 14-of-14 performance from the charity stripe in key games.
Stone’s Late Free Throw Drama
Lance Stone put on a show for Renaissance with an incredible sequence in overtime. He scored seven straight points to give Renaissance a one-point lead, but the momentum took a different turn. A backcourt violation and missed free throws in the final moments changed the game’s direction.
The game reached its peak when Stone stepped up to the free-throw line with less than 10 seconds left in overtime. He matched McKenney’s total with 26 points but struggled at the line and made just one of three attempts. This sequence helped OLSM hold onto their slim lead.
Senior Sharrod Barnes wrapped up OLSM’s win by grabbing a key rebound and making one of his free throws, which set the final three-point margin. OLSM’s sixth straight win marked their second consecutive Operation Friendship victory over the Detroit Public School League champions.
“I put the pressure on myself, that’s what I want to do,” Stone said afterward. “So to go off for seven straight points in overtime to give my team a chance to win, that’s a great feeling for me. Things happened at the end, I stepped on the halfcourt line. It happens. It all comes with the game”.
This win puts McKenney and OLSM in a position to make history – they could become the first team to win back-to-back championships in Michigan’s top division since Clarkston did it in 2017-18. McKenney has shown his leadership skills in pressure situations throughout the season, leading his team through intense final moments against top-ranked opponents.
Orchard Lake St. Mary’s has become a powerhouse. They’ve won in 2020, 2022, and 2024. St. Mary’s also ranks as Michigan’s second-winningest program with 1,250 wins. Their performance shows CHSL’s growing power in the Operation Friendship championship.
The championship battle displayed exceptional talent as both teams’ elite players delivered outstanding performances. Trey McKenney, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s junior sensation, added another chapter to his remarkable season with a masterful display of skill and composure.
McKenney Demonstrates Mr. Basketball Credentials
McKenney’s versatile offensive arsenal proved unstoppable with an efficient 8-of-11 shooting from the field. He showed nerves of steel by making all 14 free-throw attempts. His complete game shone through with 10 rebounds, which affected both ends of the floor.
Renaissance’s Lance Stone matched McKenney’s intensity with an equally impressive showing. Stone’s determination showed in a vital seven-point scoring burst during overtime. His aggressive drives and timely baskets kept Renaissance within striking distance throughout the contest.
The game reached its turning point when Stone, after his dynamic scoring run, faced a challenging sequence. A backcourt violation paired with vital free-throw attempts ended up influencing the final outcome. Stone’s resilience throughout the championship battle earned admiration from spectators and opponents alike.
This elite talent matchup highlighted the exceptional level of play in Michigan high school basketball. McKenney’s performance strengthened his position among the state’s top players. He had already impressed against other Mr. Basketball finalists earlier in the season, including a 30-point, 12-rebound performance against U-D Jesuit.
Of course, this championship battle gave both players the perfect stage to show their remarkable skills. McKenney’s efficient scoring combined with Stone’s clutch performance created an unforgettable display of high school basketball excellence.
Operation Friendship Delivers Record Attendance
This year’s Operation Friendship championship found a new home at the historic George Gervin GameAbove Center in Ypsilanti. The event moved from Calihan Hall, which had served as its home court since the 1950s.
Calihan Hall Atmosphere Electrifies
Operation Friendship’s rich history features some remarkable attendance records. The 1947 matchup between Miller and Detroit St. Joseph made state history when 16,041 fans packed Olympia Stadium. The event was so popular that officials had to turn away more than 1,500 people at the gates.
These matchups still create electric atmospheres today. Brother Rice claimed their first Operation Friendship title since 1990 last year at Calihan Hall. Dedicated fans battled through a winter storm to witness their overtime victory against Detroit Cass Tech.
Fan Reactions Shape Historic Night
The crowd’s energy soared as both teams exchanged leads in this year’s championship. Renaissance’s scoring plays sparked celebrations from passionate fans like Jamilya Gwenee. The intensity reached new heights when Orchard Lake St. Mary’s forward Jayden Savory drew key fouls, which fired up supporters from both sides.
This championship means more than just competition. Detroit’s basketball community comes together each year for this showcase of the city’s best high school talent. The traditional doubleheader format lets runner-up teams compete before the main championship game.
Operation Friendship basketball stands as Michigan’s premier high school championship showdown.
The 2024 battle between Orchard Lake St. Mary’s and Detroit Renaissance captured this historic rivalry’s spirit with amazing athleticism and sportsmanship.
McKenney dominated the game with 26 points. He scored 18 points at vital moments that helped OLSM chase their second straight title. Stone showed his talent for Renaissance with a resilient performance, even though his team fell short. This storied matchup continues to produce exceptional players.
OLSM’s sixth consecutive win highlights a fundamental change in the competitive balance between these prestigious leagues. The Catholic League’s player development programs and adaptations have steadily closed PSL’s historical edge.
Passionate fans packed the arena to witness another thrilling chapter in Detroit’s rich basketball tradition. Operation Friendship basketball is the lifeblood of Michigan high school sports. It has united communities and showcased elite talent for more than 70 years. The electric atmosphere, outstanding plays, and lasting rivalry will inspire generations of basketball players and fans.
