Written By Paul Garwood

A fast start set the tone for Birmingham Brother Rice, and the Warriors never looked back.

For the first time since 1984, Brother Rice is headed to the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 Final Four after a commanding 88–59 victory over Wayne Memorial in the MHSAA D1 Quarterfinal at Calihan Hall. The Warriors delivered one of the most complete performances of the tournament, combining elite shooting, balanced scoring, and relentless defensive pressure.

Brother Rice wasted no time asserting control. The Warriors erupted for 25 points in the opening quarter while shooting an impressive 11-of-14 from the field. That early offensive surge allowed them to dictate the pace of the game and put Wayne Memorial on its heels.

The momentum continued in the second quarter. By halftime, Brother Rice had built a commanding 48–28 lead after shooting 19-of-30 from the floor. Their offensive efficiency, ball movement, and defensive energy created separation that Wayne Memorial struggled to overcome.

The Warriors maintained that intensity throughout the second half, continuing their balanced attack while limiting Wayne Memorial’s opportunities. Every key contributor played a role in the dominant performance that ultimately sent Brother Rice to the Breslin Center.

Greg Grays Jr. led the way with 22 points, five rebounds, and four assists, consistently making plays as both a scorer and facilitator. Freshman guard Jordan McDaniel matched him with 22 points while adding three assists, four rebounds, four steals, and three blocks in an impressive two-way performance that highlighted his impact on both ends of the floor.

Inside, Ivan Stojanovski provided a strong presence with 17 points and eight rebounds, helping control the paint and the glass. Jacob Lamb added 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists while also making his presence felt defensively throughout the night. Trevor Smith delivered a double-double effort with 10 points and 10 rebounds, along with four assists and three blocks, showcasing the Warriors’ depth and versatility.

Wayne Memorial, last season’s Division 1 runner-up, fought hard despite the deficit. Senior forward Cyrus Goins led the Zebras with 20 points, while Mr. Basketball finalist Jaylohn Allen added 19 points. Wayne Memorial finishes the season with an impressive 23–4 record after another strong postseason run.

For Brother Rice, however, the night belonged to a team effort that combined offensive efficiency with relentless defense. The Warriors’ balanced scoring, physical rebounding, and defensive pressure proved too much to overcome.

Now, Birmingham Brother Rice will take that momentum to East Lansing as they prepare for the MHSAA Division 1 Final Four at the Breslin Center, marking the program’s first appearance at the state’s final weekend in more than four decades.