Here we go hoops fans

Boys basketball season is finally here. I’ve compiled a quick guide to some early season must-see games in Macomb County. Happy trails hoops fans.

Friday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., Macomb L’Anse Creuse North at Warren De La Salle:
Expect to see a barrage of 3-pointers from two of the county’s purest shooters in Crusaders senior Erik Thompson and Pilots junior Alex Marcotullio.

Monday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m., Warren Cousino at Utica Ford:
The Falcons edged the Patriots by one game to take the Macomb Area Conference White Division title last season. While Ford’s Nate King and Kyle Hunt, and Cousino’s Ricky Powell and Bernard Edwards are among the area’s top returning starters, Patriots center Matt Balkema, a 6-foot-9 270-pound junior, may just steal the show in this early season grudge match.

Tuesday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m., Harper Woods High at Warren Conner Creek Academy West:
The Eagles may be Warren’s best-kept basketball secret. They’ll have a chance to prove their skills against the Metro Conference powerhouse. The Pioneers' aggressive, pressing defense is enough to give any opposing head coach fits, but so are the all-around skills the Eagles' 6-foot-8 junior center John Hoskins Jr.

Wednesday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., St. Clair Shores South Lake at Warren Fitzgerald:
Expect plenty of high-flying offense as there are few teams around that can match the explosiveness of the Spartans and Cavaliers. Quentin Jones, the Cavs' 6-foot-6, high-flying senior forward is a threat to score from anywhere and should be enjoyable to watch this season. There are plenty of players in this game capable of taking over in this installment of a fierce, blossoming rivalry. South Lake won a share of the MAC Blue title last season, while Fitzgerald was tied for second place.