Photos by Deb Jacques East Detroit junior Johnnie Mills prepares to make a move with the ball during a game earlier in the season against Cousino. At press time, the Shamrocks were 4-1.

By Jon Malavolti
C & G Sports Writer

EASTPOINTE — Sure, East Detroit’s boys basketball team can score points in bunches and in a variety of different ways, but the Shamrocks know improving their defense will ultimately be key if they want any long-term success.

“One thing we can improve on is our defense — working together,” East Detroit junior guard Johnnie Mills said.

At press time, the Shamrocks were off to a strong start at 4-1 overall, 2-0 in the Macomb Area Conference Blue Division.

Offensively, East Detroit is a smooth-running machine, according to coach Dave Zauner. Strong shooters, athletic slashers and a solid rotation of post players give the Shamrocks a balanced inside-outside game.

“I like the way we’re moving the ball. I like the way that we’re unselfish,” the coach said. “We’re getting contributions from about eight, nine different people.”

But, as Mills pointed out, the organization on ‘D’ could be improved.

“They know spots on the floor where they’re all supposed to be at certain times,” Zauner said. “Right now, it’s not getting there as a unit.”

Should the Shamrocks improve their already somewhat suffocating defense, they could be in the driver’s seat for the division title. Through its first five games, they were averaging a MAC Blue-best 47.6 points against per contest.

“That’s big, because we’re looking for it this year; we’re gunning for them this year,” Mills said, referring to the division title and the early season favorites to win said title, respectively.

Zauner added another likely key to the MAC Blue crown, which Madison Heights Madison has won the past two seasons, would be successfully breaking and applying pressure. The defending champion Eagles, for example, are well-known throughout the division for their ability to constrict the court.

The Shamrocks, who in turn have also turned up the pressure dial themselves this season, will turn to junior point guard Ethan Blackwell for leadership on the court, especially in stressful situations.

“Ethan’s been doing a nice job at the point, recognizing who to get the ball to,” Zauner said.

Blackwell, who ended up taking over point guard duties as a sophomore last season after transferring in from Oakland County, said he’s much more comfortable in the Shamrocks’ system this season.

“Our team’s chemistry is pretty good,” he said. “I know where people want the ball, and we’ve got good shooters — and different scorers — so it’s just getting them the ball.”

And as far as breaking and applying the pressure, Blackwell understands that if he remains calm, his teammates will follow suit.

“I’m trying to set an example, like a leader out there, like an extension of coach,” he said.

If the team continues to improve, Zauner is confident it can keep up with the rest of the talented-laden units in the deep MAC Blue Division.

“Macomb County basketball, there’s talented players all over the place. If you take a night off, you’re going to get hit,” the coach said.

“We’re hoping to win league,” Blackwell added. “I think every game will be tough.”

Senior forward Melvin Ballestero may have summed up the Shamrocks’ aspirations best when he said simply, “We have high goals right now.”

Catch the Shamrocks in action when they host division rival St. Clair Shores South Lake at 7 p.m. Dec. 22.

You can reach Sports Writer Jon Malavolti at jmalavolti@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1040.