CAAC Basketball Results From Wk 1

The opening week of high school basketball in the Capital Area Activities Conference delivered strong starts, tight finishes, and a few early statement wins across the region.

Lansing Waverly wasted no time proving they’re ready to make noise this season, improving to 2–0 with a gritty 75–71 win over Detroit Martin Luther King. The Warriors looked sharp on both ends, controlling the tempo and delivering clutch plays when it mattered most.

Tre Burton sealed the victory at the line, knocking down a free throw with 4.8 seconds remaining to put the game out of reach. Xavier Pendergrass led a balanced offensive attack with 21 points, while Ali added 20. DJ Pope finished with 12, Derek Thomas contributed 11, and CJ Gomez added 8 points while directing the offense with several key assists.

With four players scoring in double figures and strong execution down the stretch, Waverly continues to show why they’re a team to watch. The Warriors now turn their attention to a CAAC Blue matchup at home against Holt on Tuesday night.

East Lansing opened its season in commanding fashion, cruising past Flint Hamady 76–46. The Trojans used their length, tempo, and pressure defense to seize control from the opening tip and never let it go. With contributions coming from all over the roster, one performance rose above the rest: Bowling Green commit Kelvin Torbert Jr. dominated with 29 points, setting the tone for both the game and what could be a big season ahead for the Trojans.

Mason might have had the busiest and most dramatic opening week of anyone in the CAAC. The Bulldogs kicked off their season on 12/3 with a nail-biting 73–72 win over Grand Ledge, then walked straight into another thriller on Friday night. This time, Mason outlasted Williamston 63–57 in a huge overtime battle, showing poise on every key possession to move to 2–0. Two close wins in just four days highlighted the Bulldogs’ toughness and ability to close out games under pressure. Mason Dowdy was nothing short of spectacular, pouring in 39 points to power the Bulldogs in the OT win. For Williamston, Jacob Martin (15 points) and Jameson Conti (14 points) kept the Hornets in striking distance all night, delivering strong performances in a hard-fought matchup. The Bulldogs leave Week 1 unbeaten and with plenty of momentum.

Rounding out the week, Haslett picked up a convincing victory on 12/2, defeating Ionia 68–44. The Vikings controlled the game on both ends and used a big second half to pull away for a comfortable season-opening win.

Early Standouts

Mason leaned on strong play from its core rotation, with multiple players stepping up in clutch moments across both wins.

East Lansing showcased a balanced offensive attack and aggressive defense that overwhelmed Hamady from start to finish.

Waverly relied on steady guard play and efficient scoring to remain unbeaten through the first week. Haslett opened the season looking sharp, and one early standout has already emerged for the Vikings. Whether it’s producing on both ends, setting the tone with energy, or stepping up in key moments, this player has quickly become a reliable spark for Haslett’s lineup.

Week 1 delivered competitive matchups, breakout performances, and a few teams making early noise. With conference play looming, the stage is set for an exciting CAAC basketball season.