Written By Paul Garwood

Avondale delivered a dominant performance on both ends of the floor to defeat Roseville 71 to 50 in the MHSAA Division 1 Quarterfinal at Calihan Hall, punching its ticket to the Breslin Center. The Yellowjackets combined defensive intensity with efficient offense to control the game and prove why they are one of the most complete teams remaining in the state tournament.

Jakobe Liford led the charge with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Senior guard Jaidon Bourgeois was equally impressive, contributing 19 points while adding five assists, four steals, and three rebounds, consistently impacting the game on both ends of the floor.

The interior presence of sophomore center Da’Kari Fields also made a major difference for Avondale. Fields finished with 12 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks, protecting the rim and anchoring the defense. Senior forward Noah Bonds added another strong effort with 12 points and eight rebounds as the Yellowjackets controlled the glass throughout the night.

As a team, Avondale shot an efficient 31 of 60 from the floor, good for 51.7 percent, while also connecting on five of their ten attempts from three-point range. The Yellowjackets also dominated the rebounding battle 35 to 20 and assisted on 19 of their 31 made baskets, showing the ball movement and unselfish play that have defined their season.

Roseville continued to compete despite the deficit. Junior guard Terrell Owens led the Panthers with 12 points, along with three rebounds, two steals, and two assists. Sophomore guard Carter George added a well-rounded performance with 10 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and two steals, while junior guard Prince El supplied 10 points and three rebounds.

Roseville finished the game shooting 32 percent from the field, going 16 of 50 overall, while converting 13 of 17 free throws and six of 16 three-point attempts. The Panthers battled throughout the night but struggled to overcome Avondale’s defensive pressure and rebounding advantage.

With the win, Avondale now advances to the Breslin Center with momentum and confidence after one of the most impressive defensive performances of the state tournament.