December 9, 2025

Lapeer turns up the pressure, claims season-opening win over North Branch

The Lapeer Lightning opened their season with a hard-fought 37–32 win over visiting North Branch on Tuesday night, showcasing stretches of disruptive defense and timely execution in front of their home crowd.

The Lightning started the night by weathering some early trading of baskets, trailing 8–6 after the first quarter as both teams settled into the pace and physicality of the opener. Despite the early deficit, Lapeer stayed composed and began to dictate the tempo late in the second quarter. Down 14–10, the Lightning pieced together a confident run—stringing stops together, attacking the paint, and generating quality possessions—to close the half with a 17–14 lead.

That spark carried directly into the third quarter, where Lapeer played its strongest and most connected stretch of the night. The Lightning ramped up their defensive pressure, forcing rushed decisions, disrupting passing angles, and turning North Branch miscues into transition opportunities. Powered by that energy, Lapeer outscored the Broncos 13–6 in the frame to build a 30–20 advantage heading into the fourth.

Senior center Jayla Holiday led Lapeer with nine points, delivering several timely baskets that halted surges and settled momentum. Junior Alex Obidos added six points while anchoring key defensive stretches, applying pressure on the perimeter and generating turnovers that shifted the game’s rhythm. Senior Lilly Norman contributed six points on two timely three-pointers, stretching the floor at critical moments while grabbing five of her six rebounds on the defensive end.

Sophomore Taylor Morris also had a strong presence on the glass, mirroring Norman's six rebounds but pulling down five of her rebounds on the offensive end, helping Lapeer extend possessions and control the tempo. Senior Madison White, despite battling foul trouble, finished with four assists and three steals. Senior Alana Kosmak contributed another three steals along with timely rebounds, helping Lapeer maintain its defensive intensity throughout the night.

North Branch mounted a final push in the fourth quarter, led by freshman Sydney Bailey, who scored six of her nine points in the final eight minutes as the Broncos extended pressure and tightened the margin. But Lapeer responded with poise, leaning on its defense once more to close out the win.

In the end, North Branch senior Aubree Deshetsky finished with a game-high 13 points, including a 5-for-7 performance at the free-throw line. Her effort helped fuel the Broncos’ competitiveness throughout the night, but Lapeer’s third-quarter surge and defensive consistency proved to be the difference.

The 37–32 victory marks an exciting start for a seasoned Lightning roster—one that used toughness, balance, and activity on both ends to secure an opening-night win.

December 12, 2025

Lightning gain valuable experience in conference opener

The Lapeer Lightning girls basketball team opened Saginaw Valley Conference play Friday night by hosting Powers Catholic in the league opener for both teams.

Powers set the tone early, building a 32-0 lead in the first quarter behind efficient shooting and defensive pressure. The Chargers connected on 10 of 22 shots from the field, including five of 11 from three-point range, while committing no turnovers in the opening period and forcing 19.

Lapeer responded with its best stretch of the night in the second quarter. The Lightning competed on both ends, tightening defensively and finding better offensive rhythm. Lapeer scored six points in the period while limiting Powers to eight, turning the quarter into a more balanced and competitive stretch of play. Powers carried a 40-6 lead into halftime.

Powers opened the second half with another strong quarter, scoring 26 points in the third while holding Lapeer to two. The Chargers added 13 points in the fourth to finish with a 79-8 conference win.

Senior Madison White led the Lightning with four points, while Jayla Holliday paced Lapeer on the boards with five rebounds. The contest served as an early measuring stick for Lapeer against a conference opponent in just its second outing of the season.

For Powers, senior Kendall Smith, last season’s Saginaw Valley Conference Player of the Year, opened her season with 25 points, while sophomore Evah Smith added 24.

While the final score favored the visitors, the matchup provided valuable experience for the Lightning as conference play begins. Lapeer will return to Saginaw Valley Conference action Tuesday when it hosts Davison.

December 17, 2025

The Lapeer Girls Varsity Basketball team returned home for a Saginaw Valley Conference matchup, hosting the Davison Cardinals in what marked the second league game and third contest of the season for both teams.

Each squad entered the night with identical 1–1 records, setting the stage for a competitive conference battle.

Lapeer came out with strong energy in the opening quarter, setting the tone early on its home floor. The Lightning played sound defense and moved the ball effectively, edging Davison 10–9 after one quarter of play.

Davison responded in the second quarter, using a scoring run to swing momentum. The Cardinals outscored Lapeer 16–9 in the period, taking a 25–19 advantage into halftime.

Coming out of the break, both teams traded baskets and played competitive basketball throughout the third quarter. Davison maintained its edge by outscoring Lapeer 18–13 in the period, extending the lead to 43–32 heading into the final eight minutes.

Lapeer continued to compete in the fourth quarter, but Davison’s efficiency and ability to force turnovers proved to be the difference as the Cardinals closed out a 53–40 Saginaw Valley Conference victory.

Senior Kaylee Whitney led the Lightning offensively with 12 points, knocking down four three-pointers. Whitney also paced Lapeer on the glass with seven rebounds, including six on the defensive end. Senior Madison White added 10 points for the Lightning, while senior Lilly Norman contributed six points and three steals.

Lapeer held an advantage on the boards, out-rebounding Davison for the game, and shot 42 percent from beyond the three-point arc. Davison, however, finished at 39 percent overall from the field compared to Lapeer’s 28 percent shooting and forced 10 more turnovers, creating additional scoring opportunities.

Davison was led by senior Sammi Beller with 24 points, while senior Savannah Rice added 11 points for the Cardinals.

Lapeer continues Saginaw Valley Conference play by hosting Saginaw United on Friday night at Lapeer High School. Varsity tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m., with the junior varsity game beginning at 5:30 p.m.

December 19, 2025

Lightning rallies late to slip past Saginaw United in conference play

The Lapeer varsity girls basketball team earned a hard-fought 37–36 victory over Saginaw United on Friday night, pulling out a one-point Saginaw Valley Conference win on its home floor.

Saginaw United entered the matchup eager to secure its first victory of the season and set the tone early with aggressive play on both ends of the floor, building a 10–9 lead after the first quarter. The Phoenix continued to pressure Lapeer in the second, taking a narrow 17–15 advantage into halftime as both teams battled through a physical, defense-driven first half.

United maintained control coming out of the break, extending its lead to 26–23 by the end of the third quarter. With momentum leaning toward the visitors, Lapeer faced its largest challenge heading into the final eight minutes.

Trailing by one with 3:30 remaining, the Lightning responded with composure on both ends of the floor. Lapeer outscored Saginaw United 14–10 in the fourth quarter, taking the lead late and holding on through the final possessions to secure the conference victory.

Defense and rebounding proved to be key factors in the win. Lapeer out-rebounded Saginaw United 49–44 and shot 39% from three-point range, generating timely offense while limiting second-chance opportunities.

Senior Madison White delivered an all-around performance for the Lightning, leading the way with 14 points, including seven in the fourth quarter. White also added three steals, three assists, and five rebounds. Kaylee Whitney chipped in nine points on 3-of-7 shooting, along with three rebounds and two steals.

Senior Jayla Holiday controlled the paint with a team-high nine rebounds and two blocks while scoring seven points. Lilly Norman anchored a strong defensive effort, finishing with eight steals and six rebounds, five on the defensive end. Sophomore Taylor Morris provided energy and physicality throughout the night, contributing eight rebounds and two steals while helping Lapeer control the tempo and close out the victory.

Saginaw United, a young team with no seniors on its roster, was led by sophomore guard Maliyah Phillips, who scored 15 points and led all scorers.

The win moves Lapeer to 2–2 on the season and provides an early boost in what continues to be a highly competitive Saginaw Valley Conference.

The Lightning will next compete in the Kearsley Hornets Nest Christmas Tournament on December 29–30. Lapeer opens tournament play against host Kearsley at 2 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 29. The championship game is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Dec. 30, with the consolation game set for noon. Waterford and LakeVille are also participating in the tournament.

January 9, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning hosted the Grand Blanc Bobcats in Saginaw Valley Conference play Friday night, falling 58–31 to an energized Bobcat squad.

Grand Blanc jumped out to an early lead in the opening quarter, using pressure and quick scoring to go up 18–4. Lapeer responded with poise, closing the quarter on a 10-point run to cut the deficit to 18–14 and regain momentum heading into the second period.

The second quarter featured back-and-forth action, with both teams trading baskets. Grand Blanc scored 13 points in the frame, while Lapeer added seven, sending the Lightning into halftime trailing 31–21.

Coming out of the break, Grand Blanc increased its defensive pressure and capitalized on turnovers, extending its lead with a 19-point third quarter. Lapeer battled through the pressure and managed six points in the period but entered the fourth quarter down 50–27.

The fourth quarter was competitive, with Grand Blanc adding eight points while Lapeer scored four to close out the 58–31 final.

Lapeer shot 27 percent from the field for the game and went 8-for-25 from the free-throw line. Grand Blanc finished at 30 percent shooting and went 4-for-9 at the line.

Despite the loss, the Lightning received strong all-around contributions from several players. Ellery Muir delivered a well-rounded performance with five rebounds, four assists, three steals, and three points. Jayla Holiday led Lapeer on the glass with seven rebounds—two offensive and five defensive—while adding seven points. Allison Steffler contributed across multiple areas with three rebounds, three assists, three steals, and a block, while Lilly Norman led the team defensively with five steals.

Offensively, Kaylee Whitley and Maddie Franckowiak shared the team scoring lead with eight points each, with Franckowiak also pulling down four rebounds. Grand Blanc was led by senior Parc Liggins, who scored 35 points.

Lapeer showed resilience throughout the night, particularly with its response in the opening quarter, and will look to build on that momentum moving forward.

The Lightning (3–3) will travel to Caro (5-1) on Monday for non-conference play, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

January 20, 2026

The Lapeer girls basketball team delivered a gritty road performance Tuesday night, edging the Clio Mustangs 39-37 in a non-conference road matchup.

The contest was tight from the opening tip. The Mustangs held Lapeer to just two points in the first quarter and carried a 5-2 advantage after one. Clio continued to control the tempo into the second quarter, taking a slim 13-12 lead into halftime.

Lapeer found its rhythm coming out of the break, turning in its best stretch of the night during the third quarter. The Lightning outscored the Mustangs 14-8 in the frame to move in front 26-21 heading into the fourth.

The final eight minutes turned into a back-and-forth battle. Clio tied the game at 28-28 with 5:10 remaining, igniting a stretch that featured 12 lead changes or ties over the next five minutes. Down the stretch, the pace intensified, with nine of the final 11 possessions resulting in points over the last 2:14 of play.

Clio was able to convert its free throw opportunities throughout the night, finishing 13-of-21 at the line. Lapeer countered by attacking the glass and creating second chances, while converting 14-of-41 from the free throw line.

Jayla Holiday led the Lightning with 15 points and added nine rebounds. Kaylee Whitney finished with seven points, while Alana Kosmac also scored seven points, all of which came in the fourth quarter. Kosmac led Lapeer on the boards with 11 rebounds, including five in the final period to help seal the win.

The closing moments were decisive. Lapeer trailed 37-36 with 30 seconds remaining before Ellery Muir knocked down a clutch corner shot and was fouled on the play. After the ensuing free throw, Kosmac secured a critical defensive rebound and was fouled, converting at the line to give the Lightning a 39-37 lead.

The Mustangs had one final opportunity, but Lapeer’s defense held firm to secure the road victory.

Lilly Norman made her presence felt across the floor, finishing with six rebounds, six assists, and nine steals. Five of her assists came during Lapeer’s pivotal third-quarter surge.

Lapeer now turns its attention back to conference play, traveling to Powers Catholic High School on Friday night. The game is scheduled for a 6 p.m. tip-off and will be broadcast on the Fire Network and NFHS Network. The matchup will also serve as Military Appreciation Day at Powers.

January 28, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning girls varsity basketball team delivered an exciting fourth-quarter comeback on Wednesday night, playing aggressive in a back-and-forth finish during a 51–47 non-conference road victory over the Kearsley Hornets.

Lapeer started fast, jumping out to a 16–8 advantage after the first quarter behind strong defense and quick transition offense. Kearsley responded in the second quarter, swinging momentum in their favor by outscoring Lapeer 22–3, taking a 30–19 lead into halftime.

Coming out of the break, Lapeer played clean aggressive ball. The Lightning outscored Kearsley 17–8 in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to just two points and entering the fourth trailing 38–36.

With 3:13 remaining, Lapeer trailed 45–39, but the Lightning were determined to continue their comeback. The team closed the gap quickly, capped by Madison White’s steal and layup, which tied the game at 45-45 with 1:31 remaining. Ellery Muir's three-pointer with 43 seconds left capped Lapeer’s 9-0 run and pushed the lead to 48-45. With 23 seconds on the clock, Kearsley converted a field goal to pull within one, 48-47. The ensuing possession Lilly Norman sank two clutch free throws with 16 seconds remaining, pushing the lead to 50–47. Muir secured the rebound on the next possession, was fouled, and made one of two free throws to seal the 51–47 victory.

Lapeer dominated the glass, out-rebounding Kearsley 56–37. Jayla Holiday led the way with 10 rebounds, followed by Alana Kosmak with nine and Taylor Morris with six. Defensively, the Lightning were disruptive all night, recording 20 team steals, led by Madison White’s six, Lilly Norman’s five, and Alana Kosmac’s four. In the decisive fourth quarter, Lapeer forced nine turnovers, including six steals.

Locking in on defense, Lapeer also tallied seven total blocks, led by two each from Jayla Holiday and Madison White.

Offensively, Madison White paced all scorers with 16 points, while Jayla Holiday contributed 14 points. Lilly Norman added eight points, and White and Norman shared the team lead with three assists apiece. 

The win improves the Lightning’s record to 5–6 on the season. Lapeer will next travel to Davison (9–4) for a Saginaw Valley Conference matchup on Friday. The JV game is scheduled for 4 p.m., followed by the varsity contest at 6 p.m.

January 30, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning took on the Davison Cardinals Friday night in Saginaw Valley Conference action on the road at Davison.

The opening quarter was tightly contested, with Lapeer scoring 11 points and Davison edging ahead with 12. The second quarter followed a similar script, as both teams battled evenly in a 9–9 period. Davison carried a slim 21–20 advantage into halftime.

Coming out of the break, the Cardinals gained momentum in the third quarter, outscoring the Lightning 16–2 to create separation on the scoreboard. Lapeer responded with renewed energy in the fourth quarter, but the teams once again matched up closely, with Davison holding a 10–8 edge in the final frame.

Davison earned the 47–30 conference victory.

The Cardinals shot 37 percent from the field for the game, while Lapeer finished at 24 percent. Despite the result, the Lightning controlled the glass, outrebounding Davison 40–24 and pulling down 18 offensive rebounds.

Madison White led Lapeer in scoring with 15 points. Jayla Holiday paced the Lightning on the boards with five rebounds, while White and Addison Laurie each recorded two steals.

Lapeer returns to action on Monday, February 2, hosting Oxford in non-conference play. The junior varsity game is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., with varsity to follow at approximately 7 p.m.

February 2, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning girls basketball team hosted the Oxford Wildcats in a non-conference matchup Monday night, falling 50–33.

Oxford got off to a quick start in the opening quarter, shooting 6-for-17 from the field while holding Lapeer to 1-for-9 shooting. The early efficiency allowed the Wildcats to build a 17–3 lead after one quarter of play.

Lapeer found more offensive rhythm in the second quarter and began to settle into the game, competing more evenly with Oxford on both ends of the floor. While the Wildcats edged the Lightning 12–10 in the period, Lapeer showed improved ball movement and energy, heading into halftime trailing 29–13.

Coming out of the break, Lapeer continued to compete in the third quarter, answering Oxford’s runs and putting together consistent possessions. Oxford scored 16 in the period, but Lapeer kept pace with 12 points of its own, keeping the game competitive heading into the fourth quarter.

Lapeer carried that momentum into the final frame, outscoring Oxford 8–5 in the fourth quarter. Despite the early deficit, the Lightning finished strong, but the Wildcats held on for the 50–33 victory.

Oxford held the rebounding edge in the contest, finishing with a 44–35 advantage on the glass. Lapeer found success from beyond the arc, knocking down four three-pointers on the night. Kaylee Whitney connected on three three-pointers in the third quarter, scoring nine points in the game. Oxford also capitalized on additional opportunities at the free-throw line going 10-19 compared to the Lightning’s 3-8.

Lapeer was led offensively by Jayla Holiday, who finished with a team-high 15 points while shooting 7-for-11 from the field. Holiday also led Lapeer with five rebounds and recorded a game high three blocks. Ellery Muir paced the team defensively with three steals.

Lapeer returns to Saginaw Valley Conference play Friday, traveling to Saginaw to play Saginaw United. The JV game is scheduled for a 5:30 p.m. start, with the varsity game to follow at approximately 7:00 p.m.

February 6, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning traveled to Saginaw United on Friday night for a Saginaw Valley Conference matchup with the Phoenix.

Saginaw United held an 11–7 lead after the first quarter, and the second quarter was evenly played, with both teams scoring 10 points apiece. The Phoenix took a 21–17 advantage into halftime.

Coming out of the break, Saginaw United made a run in the third quarter, shooting 64 percent from the field (9-of-14) and going 2-of-3 from beyond the three-point line. The Phoenix scored 21 points in the period, while the Lightning shot 4-of-12 (33 percent), hitting 2-of-6 from three-point range. The score after three quarters stood at 42–27 in favor of Saginaw United.

The fourth quarter was once again even, with both teams scoring 13 points, as Saginaw United secured a 55–40 victory.

The teams were evenly matched on the glass, with both squads collecting 14 offensive rebounds and 19 defensive rebounds, totaling 33 rebounds apiece.

Lapeer was led in scoring by Madison White and Jayla Holiday, who each finished with 11 points. Holiday also led the team with seven rebounds and three blocks. White dished out a team-high five assists, while Lilly Norman added four assists. Defensively, White and Addison Laurie each recorded three steals.

The Lightning return to action Monday evening, hosting Holly High School in a non-conference matchup against a potential district tournament opponent. Lapeer will then resume Saginaw Valley Conference play Tuesday night on the road at Grand Blanc, another possible district opponent. The busy week continues Friday night, when the Lightning travel to Carman-Ainsworth to determine the final standings in the Saginaw Valley South.

February 9, 2026

The Lapeer varsity girls basketball team hosted the Holly Broncos in a non-conference matchup Monday night and delivered an energetic, wire-to-wire performance in a 63-29 victory.

Lapeer came out with pace in the opening quarter, building a 16-9 lead after one while the teams were otherwise evenly matched across most statistical categories. The Lightning took firm control in the second quarter, continuing their efficient offensive execution while locking down defensively. Holly was held scoreless in the period, as Lapeer poured in 17 points to take a commanding 33-9 advantage into halftime.

Holly showed renewed energy coming out of the break, scoring 13 points in the third quarter, but Lapeer continued to answer at the other end. The Lightning matched the momentum with 15 points of their own, extending the lead to 48-22 heading into the fourth.

Lapeer’s consistency continued into the final quarter, adding 15 more points while limiting Holly to seven to close out the 63-29 win.

The Lightning shot 41 percent from the field in a highly efficient, team-oriented performance. Lapeer also controlled the boards, out-rebounding Holly 49-27, while the ball movement was evident with 17 assists on the night. Defensive pressure resulted in 12 steals, including five during the decisive second-quarter run.

Offensively, Lapeer was led by Madison White with 20 points on an outstanding 9-of-13 shooting performance from the field, including 2-of-2 from beyond the arc. Jayla Holiday matched the scoring output with 20 points, helping the Lightning with 10 first-quarter points, while Lilly Norman added eight points for the game.

On the boards, Allison Steffler led the Lightning with seven rebounds, while Holiday pulled down six. White paced the team with four assists, and Ellery Muir added three. White also helped set the tone defensively, leading the team with seven steals on the night.

The Lapeer Lightning continue play Tuesday, February 10, traveling to Grand Blanc High School for a Saginaw Valley Conference matchup. Junior varsity tips off at 5:30 p.m., with varsity to follow at approximately 7 p.m.

February 10, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning faced the Grand Blanc Bobcats in Saginaw Valley Conference play Tuesday night, February 10, in a contest that unfolded as a game of quarters.

Grand Blanc set the tone early, using a fast start in the opening frame to seize control. The Bobcats poured in 19 first-quarter points, shooting 8-of-20 from the field, including 3-of-8 from beyond the arc. Lapeer struggled to find its rhythm offensively, connecting on 3-of-12 shots, and trailed 19-6 after one.

The second quarter was much more evenly played. Lapeer settled in and matched Grand Blanc’s intensity, but the Bobcats narrowly edged the period 11-10. At halftime, Lapeer faced a 30-16 deficit but showed signs of building momentum heading into the break.

That momentum carried into the third quarter. The Lightning responded with one of their strongest stretches of the night, outscoring the Bobcats 11-9. Lapeer tightened up defensively and found better offensive balance, trimming the deficit to 39-27 entering the fourth quarter.

Early in the final period, Lapeer cut the lead to 10 and had opportunities to bring the margin to single digits. However, Grand Blanc answered with a decisive run. The Bobcats closed the game on an 18-7 surge to secure a 57-34 victory.

Rebounding was nearly even, with Grand Blanc holding a slight 48-45 edge. For the game, Lapeer shot 12-of-52 from the field, including 1-of-14 from three-point range. Grand Blanc finished 25-of-75 overall and 6-of-21 from beyond the arc.

Madison White led Lapeer with 13 points, followed by Jayla Holiday with eight. Allison Steffler and Alana Kosmac paced the team on the glass with seven rebounds apiece, while White and Lilly Norman each added six rebounds. White also led the Lightning with four assists and three steals, contributing on both ends of the floor.

Lapeer will wrap up Saginaw Valley South Conference play Friday night at Carman-Ainsworth. The junior varsity tips off at 5:30 p.m., with the varsity game scheduled to follow at approximately 7 p.m.

February 13, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning closed out Saginaw Valley South Conference play Friday night, Feb. 13, earning a hard-fought 49-47 road victory over the Cavaliers of Flint Carman-Ainsworth.

The contest was tightly contested from start to finish, with the first half playing out as a tale of two matching quarters. Lapeer jumped out to a quick start in the opening frame, building a 12-6 lead after one. Carman-Ainsworth responded in the second, matching that 12-point effort while holding the Lightning to six, sending the teams into halftime knotted at 18-18.

Lapeer created separation in the third quarter behind a surge from the perimeter. Kaylee Whitney caught fire, knocking down four three-pointers in the period as part of her 12-point night. As a team, the Lightning shot 5-of-10 from beyond the arc, with Madison White adding her third triple of the game during the run. That outside shooting spark helped Lapeer outscore the Cavaliers 19-11 in the third and take a 37-29 lead into the final eight minutes. For the game, Lapeer finished 7-of-24 from three-point range, while Carman-Ainsworth went 5-of-24.

The Cavaliers refused to go away. Applying pressure defense and attacking the rim, Carman-Ainsworth earned baskets and trips to the free throw line pouring in 18 fourth-quarter points to set up a dramatic finish. Lapeer answered just enough, scoring 12 in the final frame to secure the two-point victory.

The game was nearly even across the stat sheet. Lapeer shot 19-of-74 (25 percent) from the field, while Carman-Ainsworth finished 18-of-64 (28 percent). On the glass, the Lightning held a 56-49 rebounding advantage, with both teams collecting 34 defensive boards.

Lilly Norman led the rebounding effort with 12, while Madison White and Alana Kozmak added nine apiece. Allison Steffler and Jayla Holiday each chipped in eight rebounds as Lapeer’s balanced effort on the boards proved critical.

The Lightning shared the basketball well, finishing with 15 assists. White dished out six to go along with her team-high 18 points, and Norman added five assists. Lapeer also took care of the ball, committing just 12 turnovers while forcing 17 from the Cavaliers. That defensive pressure translated into a decisive 15-2 edge in points off turnovers.

Defense was once again a defining factor. The Lightning recorded seven blocks as a team, with White accounting for three. Lapeer also tallied 12 steals, led by Norman’s four, while White and Whitney added three each.

The Lightning completed Saginaw Valley South Conference play with a statement road win. Lapeer will return to action Monday night at Brandon, with tipoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

February 16, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning girls varsity basketball team traveled to Ortonville on Feb. 16 for a non-conference matchup against the Brandon Blackhawks, turning a slow start into a convincing 45-30 victory.

Brandon came out with strong defensive intensity in the opening quarter, holding Lapeer to four points and building a 9-4 lead after one. The Lightning responded in the second quarter, finding better rhythm offensively and tightening up defensively. Lapeer outscored the Blackhawks 11-6 in the period to pull even at 15-15 heading into halftime.

Coming out of the break, the Lightning executed well on the offensive end. Lapeer shot 6-of-15 (40 percent) in the third quarter and poured in 18 points while limiting Brandon to nine, taking a 33-24 lead into the fourth.

Lapeer maintained control in the final quarter, doubling up the Blackhawks 12-6 over the final eight minutes to secure the 15-point win.

The Lightning dominated the glass, holding a commanding 59-43 rebounding advantage, including 30 offensive rebounds that created second-chance opportunities throughout the night. Despite both teams shooting 20 percent from the field — Lapeer 13-of-65 and Brandon 10-of-51 — the Lightning capitalized at the free throw line, converting 17-of-33 attempts compared to Brandon’s 9-of-17.

Defensively, the Lightning were disruptive, finishing with 19 steals. Lilly Norman led the way with seven, while Ellery Muir and Madison White collected four apiece. Lapeer also recorded seven blocked shots, with Jayla Holiday and White tallying three each. The Lightning were powered by two big double-double performances, as Holiday finished with 15 points and 24 rebounds, while Alana Kosmac added 13 points and 11 rebounds in a strong all-around effort. White paced the team in assists with four.

The Lightning return to action Thursday night at home, hosting the Bay City Central Wolves in a Saginaw Valley crossover contest. Junior varsity tips off at 5:30 p.m., with varsity scheduled to follow at approximately 7 p.m.

February 19, 2026

The Lapeer Lightning hosted the Bay City Central Wolves in a Saginaw Valley Conference crossover matchup Thursday night and used a focused defensive effort to secure a 49-27 victory.

Lapeer set the tone early with relentless defensive pressure, collecting seven steals and recording five of their six total blocks in the opening quarter. The Lightning’s activity on the defensive end fueled a 14-6 lead after one, shooting 6-of-21 (29 percent) in the frame.

The second quarter was more of a grind offensively, but Lapeer’s defense continued to control the tempo. Both teams scored six points in the period, allowing the Lightning to maintain their advantage and head into halftime with a 20-12 lead.

In the third quarter, Bay City Central managed seven points, but Lapeer began to create separation. The Lightning scored 12 in the quarter to extend the lead to 32-19 heading into the fourth.

Lapeer put the finishing touches on the win in the final quarter. The Lightning delivered their most efficient shooting stretch of the night, going 6-of-13 (46 percent), while ramping up defensive pressure once again with seven steals. They also pulled down 10 of their 24 defensive rebounds in the quarter. Lapeer scored 17 points in the fourth, while holding the Wolves to eight, sealing the 22-point victory.

For the game, the Lightning forced 32 turnovers and recorded 24 steals. Both teams finished with nine assists, with Ellery Muir leading Lapeer with four.

Lapeer shot 20-of-73 (27 percent) overall and was led offensively by Madison White with 17 points, Alana Kosmac with 10, and Jayla Holiday with eight.

Defensively, the Lightning held Bay City Central to 12-of-42 shooting (29 percent). White led the way with eight steals, while Muir and Lilly Norman added four apiece. Holiday anchored the interior with three blocks and paced the team on the glass with 12 rebounds. Kosmac contributed seven rebounds, and Norman added six.

The Lightning will close the regular season at home, hosting Lake Fenton on Tuesday and Lake Orion on Thursday before district play begins March 2 at Oxford Wildcats.