CHEVERUS
Coach: Steve Huntington, third year
Last season: 10-9, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 5
Impact players: Abby Cavallaro, jr., PG; Kaylin Malmquist, sr., G; Emme Poulin, jr., G; Brooke McElman, sr., F; Brooke Dawson, sr., G/F; Alayna Briggs, sr., G
Outlook: The Stags loom as one of the teams to watch, not only in the class but the state. They’re still small and will rely on 3-point shooting. But they have some of the best perimeter players around, led by Cavallaro, Poulin and Dawson. Malmquist is a calming influence and an underrated player.
DEERING
Coach: Mike Murphy, 12th year
Last season: 12-8, lost in regional semifinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Tasia Titherington, sr., G; Amanda Brett, sr., F; Abi Ramirez, sr., G; Delaney Haines, so., G; Mandy Mastropasqua, so., G; Victoria Garand, so., C/F; Ashleigh Mathisen, so., F
Outlook: The Rams should be among the best teams in the state. They have great experience and leadership from Titherington, Brett and Ramirez and some exceptional young talent in Haines and Mastropasqua. Their success will come down to how well they rebound. They’re not tall, so they’re going to have to play good defense and limit opposing shots.
PORTLAND
Coach: Jay Lowery, third year
Last season: 2-16
Returning starters: 5
Impact players: Rose Griffin, sr., C; Shayla Eubanks, jr., C/F; Regan Brown, so., C/F; Kiera Eubanks, fr., C/F; Andrea Lynch, sr., F; Taylor Sargent, sr., PG; Kate Johnson, sr., G; Nettie Walsh, so., F
Outlook: The Bulldogs could be one of the most improved teams in the SMAA. Everyone is back and they have some size, which could cause problems for a lot of teams inside. “The girls have come a long way,” said Lowery. “Now they’re ready to compete.” They’ll favor a half-court game, but there is some young talent here that can push the ball.
WINDHAM
Coach: Brody Artes, fifth year
Last season: 8-10
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Mya Mannette, sr., PG; Tara Flanders, so., G/F; Meghan Hoffses, so., G; Lyndsey Arsenault, sr., G; Hannah Talon, fr., G; Taylor Files, jr., F
Outlook: This is still a young team, with only two seniors and one junior on the roster, but the Eagles will look to get back into the tournament. They have some nice skilled players but need to become more consistent offensively. Inside play could be a factor, as will the defense.
Class AA South
BONNY EAGLE
Coach: Scott Regan, third year
Last season: 9-11, lost in regional semifinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Mackenzie Emory, so., PG; Deirdre Sanborn, jr., G/F; Natalie Bushy, sr., F; Mia Ferrante, jr., F; Tracie Townsend, sr., G; Lauryn Fagan, sr., C
Outlook: The Scots made it to the semifinals for the first time in 21 years last winter. Now they want to go further, and they could do it. The four returning starters are boosted by the addition of Sanborn, a transfer from Cheverus who will help the offense. They’re going to play aggressive defense and run the ball as much as possible.
GORHAM
Coach: Laughn Berthiaume, 10th year
Last season: 21-0, won state championship
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Emily Esposito, sr., G; Kaylea Lundin, sr., G; Kristen Curley, sr., G; Mckenzie Holmes, so., C; Michelle Rowe, jr., F; Jacqui Hamilton, fr., F/G; Alexis Fotter, jr., G
Outlook: The defending champs should be a powerhouse again, losing only Danasia Fennie (who moved out of state) from last year’s team. Esposito and Holmes are two of the best players around, providing a great 1-2 punch. Lundin and Curley step up in big moments. Berthiaume’s motto for the season: “Humble, Hungry and Healthy.”
MAINE GIRLS’ ACADEMY
Coach: Bill Goodman, sixth year
Last season: 16-3, lost in regional semifinal
Returning starters: 0
Impact players: Maddie Beaulieu, sr., G/F; Madison Legassey, jr., G; Jill Joyce, so., C; Emily Weisser, jr., F; Serena Mower, fr., PG; Hope Olsen, fr., F/G; Zoe Mazur, so., G
Outlook: The perennial contenders (formerly McAuley) may be in a rebuilding mode. Graduation, injuries (Weisser is out with a knee injury) and transfers stripped the team of a lot of experience. But Goodman likes this group, saying it is “young, humble and very coachable.” If the young players adjust to the varsity level, MGA could be a factor later in the season.
MASSABESIC
Coach: Ian Ryan, second year
Last season: 5-13
Returning starters: 5
Impact players: McKenzy Ouellette, so., G; Skylar Renaud, so., PG; Maddie Drain, jr., F; Emma Desrochers, sr., G; Jackie Bearse, jr., C; Morgan Pike, jr., F
Outlook: The Mustangs showed steady improvement last year and could be a factor in the playoff race this winter. Ouellette and Renaud are two of the top young players in the SMAA and are joined by an experienced group. Look for the Mustangs to run as much as possible to take advantage of their athleticism.
NOBLE
Coach: Paul Marquis, third year
Last season: 1-17
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Kendra Silvers, sr., F; Sam Couture, sr., G
Outlook: The Knights made steady improvement last year, especially on the defensive end, and will look to continue moving forward. Six freshman have made the varsity roster, meaning this will be a very young team. Silvers, who averaged 8.5 rebounds, and Couture, the top returning scorer, provide excellent leadership.
SANFORD
Coach: Kristy Parent, 16th year
Last season: 5-13
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Summer Camire, sr., PG; Annie Ledue, sr., F/C; Kristen O’Connell, sr., G; Paige Cote, fr., C; Julia Allen, so., G; Megan O’Connell, so., G; Julia Cyr, sr., C
Outlook: Parent returns after a one-year absence and is looking forward to making a playoff run. The Spartans aren’t deep, but they do have some talent and the ability to play an inside-outside game. Cote and Cyr are key inside players, while the guards all have the ability to drive to the basket. Sanford could make things difficult for a lot of teams.
SCARBOROUGH
Coach: Mike Giordano, fourth year
Last season: 7-12, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Sophie Glidden, jr., F/G; Brooke Malone, sr., G; Josie Couture, so., F; Emily Jefferds, jr., G; Jordyn Cowan, sr., C
Outlook: The Red Storm look to be a dangerous team for many reasons. They have experience and depth, with Giordano saying he can go 10 deep: “We’ve got a bunch of kids who step in and contribute.” They’ve got a nice inside-outside mix, but as always, their success will be determined by how well they do on the defensive end.
SOUTH PORTLAND
Coach: Lynne Hasson, fourth year
Last season: 17-4, lost in regional final
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Lydia Henderson, sr., G; Meghan Graff, jr., G/F; Katie Whitmore, so., G/F; Sarah Boles, jr., G/F; Eva Mazur, jr., G; Maggie Whitmore, fr., G; Jena Leckie, so., F
Outlook: This is a team to watch. The Riots already had a strong returning cast and then added defensive whiz Mazur, who transferred from Maine Girls’ Academy. They have experience, talent and ability. The key will be on the defensive end, where the Riots have to tighten things up a little. Look for full-court pressure and a lot of players rotating in.
THORNTON ACADEMY
Coach: Eric Marston, 11th year
Last season: 11-8, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Alex Hart, jr., PG; Alisha Aube, sr., G/F; Bella Robinson, sr., G; Amanda Bogardus, fr., G; Alexis Saunders, fr., C/F; Lucy Macomber, sr., F; Taylor Jordan, sr., F
Outlook: The Trojans are an intriguing team. Always strong defensively, they could be a very good offensive club with the addition of Aube, a deadly shooter who transferred from Westbrook. With Aube, Hart and Robinson, the Trojans have good offensive potential. They’re probably going to run more than they have in the past.
Class A North
CAMDEN HILLS
Coach: Doreen Robbins, second year
Last season: 5-13
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Charlotte Messer, sr., PG; Mara Dostie, sr., G; Kassie Krul, so, F/C; Lauren Miller, jr., G/F; Kristina Kelly, fr., G
Outlook: The Windjammers will look to build off the experience many of the players gained last year while also tapping into the excitement of the girls’ soccer state championship in the fall. They’re not tall, but they’re athletic. If they play well defensively and create some points off turnovers, this could be a turnaround season.
MEDOMAK VALLEY
Coach: Ryan McNelly, first year
Last season: 7-11
Returning starters: 1
Impact players: Gabby DePatsy, jr., G/F; Chelsea Ripley, sr., F/C; Hallie Kunesh, jr., G
Outlook: McNelly moves over from the boys’ program, where he was an assistant coach, to take over for longtime coach Randy Hooper, who retired. He inherits a young team that has to learn its roles and a new system. He hopes the older players provide good mentorship for the younger players. Look for the Panthers to push the tempo as much as possible.
OCEANSIDE
Coach: Samantha Bragg, third year
Last season: 8-11, lost in regional prelim
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Jillian Brooks, sr., G; Haley Montgomery, sr., F; Alexis Mazurek, sr., F; Elise Laslavic, sr., F; Gabby Simmons, jr., PG
Outlook: Inside defense will be a focus for the Mariners. They’ll look to limit not only inside shots but second chances. They have nice senior leadership and some versatile players who can create matchup problems. A playoff berth is certainly within reach.
Class A South
BIDDEFORD
Coach: Katie Herbine, first year
Last season: 2-16
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Brook Davis, jr., PG; Grace Martin, so., F; Taylor Wildes, so., F; Megan Mourmouras, fr., G; Charli Yoho, fr., G; Azure Illiano, jr., G
Outlook: Herbine crafted a championship team at her last stop, in Bangor, and likes what she sees of the Tigers. They are still young but have some nice elements. Davis and Martin have stepped up as leaders and Martin has the ability to take control of a game. The freshmen, Mourmouras and Yoho, will have an impact. Look for the Tigers to push the ball and try to force the tempo.
BRUNSWICK
Coach: Sam Farrell, eighth year
Last season: 11-8, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Madeline Suhr, sr., F; Sabrina Armstrong, jr., F; Charlotte MacMillan, so., G
Outlook: The Dragons look to improve on last year’s record, but it won’t be easy with their schedule. They have some experienced players to combine with young talent. Suhr is one of the top inside players around, especially with her shot-blocking ability. Armstrong does a little of everything and could break out this season. The Dragons will look to create offense off their defense.
CAPE ELIZABETH
Coach: Chris Casterella, 10th year
Last season: 7-12, lost in regional prelim
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Erin O’Rourke, jr., G; Alison Ingalls, so., G; Sammi Guerette, jr., F; Kelly O’Sullivan, sr., G; Brooke Harvey, so., PG
Outlook: The Capers will be young and inexperienced, with only four players on the roster having varsity experience. They should be strong defensively and will look to create some easy offense off their defense. This is a team that should improve steadily throughout the season and possibly make an impact at the end.
FALMOUTH
Coach: Dawn Armandi, first year
Last season: 5-13
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Adelaide Cooke, sr., F; Alaina Birkel, sr., PG; Abby Ryan, sr., F; Grace Dimick, jr., C
Outlook: Armandi hopes to instill a lot of the same system and values she saw at McAuley, where she was an assistant coach. Expect Falmouth to push the tempo when possible and play stifling defense. This team has some talent and good shooters. If the defense comes through, Falmouth could make a run for the playoffs.
FRYEBURG ACADEMY
Coach: Sean Watson, fifth year
Last season: 15-4, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Ali Fraize, sr., G; Mackenzie Buzzell, sr., G; Kaylin Delaney, sr., G; Makayla Cooper, sr., F; Nicole Bennett, sr., F
Outlook: The five returning seniors bring back a ton of experience and will look to lead the younger teammates. Buzzell and Fraize have been contributors since their freshman year. As with most teams, the success starts on the defensive end, and the Raiders are also looking for balanced offense.
GREELY
Coach: Todd Flaherty, first year
Last season: 17-4, lost in regional final
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Anna DeWolfe, so., G; Moira Train, sr., F/C; Molly Chapin, sr., F; Isabel Porter, sr., G/F; Hannah Stewart, sr., G/F; Brooke Obar, fr., G; Katie Fitzpatrick, fr., G/F
Outlook: This is the team to beat according to many observers. The Rangers have a deep, talented roster, led by DeWolfe, perhaps the most dynamic player in the state. This is a team that is fundamentally sound, plays great defense and can beat opponents defensively, on the fast break or by draining long 3-pointers. The expectations are rightfully high for Greely.
KENNEBUNK
Coach: Rob Sullivan, 21st year
Last season: 7-11
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Sierra Tartre, sr., PG; Gabby Fogg, sr., G; Madi Lux, sr., F; Marran Oakman, sr., G/F
Outlook: The Rams made a big jump last year but just missed the playoffs. This winter, they look to take that next step with a nice mix of returning experience and young talent. They’re strong in the backcourt with Tartre, a three-year starter, and Fogg, who already holds the school record for career 3-pointers (83). They’re going to have to play aggressive defense to be successful.
MARSHWOOD
Coach: Steve Freeman, second year
Last season: 10-9, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 1
Impact players: Courtney Thim, so., PG; Natalie Herbold, so., G/F; Elora Montgomery, jr., G/F; Miranda Montgomery, jr., F/C; Jordyn Beers, so., F; Celine Lawrence, so., G
Outlook: Even though they’re young, the Hawks don’t lack experience. Four freshmen were on the roster last year and all played significant minutes. Thim and Herbold, in particular, provide young leadership. Look for the Hawks to run and try to convert turnovers into easy baskets. They should be a playoff contender.
MORSE
Coach: Becky Roak, fifth year
Last season: 11-9, lost in regional semifinal
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Noa Sreden, sr., G; Sierra Wallace, jr. G; Marissa Parks, jr., C; Emma Gould, jr. G; Mae Winglass, so., G
Outlook: The Shipbuilders need to replace 80 percent of their offense because of graduation losses. Sreden and Wallace are certainly capable of stepping up. They need to lead a relatively young team. Defense and rebounding are the keys. Morse is a little more athletic than in the past, so don’t be surprised to see the Shipbuilders running more.
MT. ARARAT
Coach: Andy Morris, third year
Last season: 1-17
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Nikki Bradstreet, sr., G; Katelyn Cox, sr., G; Kate Guerin, sr., F; Laren Labbay, sr., G; Sabrina Paetow, sr., C; Taylor Wienckowski, sr., G
Outlook: The Eagles will look to be an aggressive team all over the court, attacking the basket on offense while playing pressure defense and crashing the boards for rebounds. Bradstreet was one of the leading scorers last year, while Guerin figures to be one of the team’s best inside players. Wienckowski is an excellent defender.
WESTBROOK
Coach: Todd Day, first year
Last season: 10-10, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Nyagoa Bayak, so., C; Avery Tucker, so., G; Julia Martel, so., G; Mikayla VanZandt, so, F; Morgan Rice, sr., F/C; Julia Symbol, sr., G; Logan Tibbetts, jr., G
Outlook: This is sophomore-centric team, with seven on the roster. But there is some talent, especially Bayak, who splits time between basketball and track. Look for this team to push the tempo to take advantage of its skills. “We’ve got to figure out our roles and play to our strengths,” said Day.
YORK
Coach: Steve Freeman, first year
Last season: 22-0, won state championship
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Lily Posternak, sr., G; Madigan Cogger, sr., G; Reilly Smedley, sr., F; Morgan Chapman, sr., G; Sophia Remick, sr., G; Martha McCaddin, so.. G; Jacquelyn Tarbora, so., G
Outlook: There will be a different look to the defending champs, who graduated some exceptional talent. The Wildcats won’t be big, but they’re very athletic, with players capable of playing multiple positions. Look for them to be aggressive both offensively and defensively.
Class B South
FREEPORT
Coach: Mike Hart, third year
Last season: 9-10, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Regan Lynch, sr., F; Ireland Hall, sr., F; Jessie Driscoll, jr., F; Taylor Dostie, jr., F; Megan Cormier, jr., F; Taylor Rinaldi, jr., G; Johanna Bogue Marlowe, jr., G
Outlook: The Falcons have an interesting mix of seven experienced players and seven freshmen. Hart will be looking for his team to push the tempo and create offense from full-court pressure. The offense should be balanced; rebounding will be crucial at the defensive end.
GRAY-NEW GLOUCESTER
Coach: Mike Andreasen, sixth year
Last season: 17-5, lost in state final
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Skye Conley, sr., C; Alicia Dumont, sr., G; Grace Kariotis, sr., G; Isabelle DeTroy, sr., G; Brianna Jordan, so., G
Outlook: The Patriots return a strong nucleus from last year’s state runner-up team. Expect them to play up-tempo and run as much as possible. The scoring should be balanced, as the team returns five of its top scorers. If the Patriots are able to play pressure defense, they could be a contender again.
LAKE REGION
Coach: Paul True, 13th year
Last season: 15-5, lost in regional semifinal
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Kristen Huntress, sr., G; Melody Millett, sr., F; Chandler True, Jr., G; Lauren Jakobs, jr., F; Brooke Harriman, so., F
Outlook: The Lakers are traditionally one of the top teams in their region, and this year isn’t likely to be any different. Huntress averaged more than 16 points per game last season, and Jakobs and True were also key players for a team that lost in overtime to regional champion Gray-New Gloucester in the semifinals.
LINCOLN ACADEMY
Coach: Kevin Feltis, fifth year
Last season: 18-3, lost in regional final
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Gabrielle Wajer, sr., G; Brianne Genthner, sr., F; Kaitlyn Feltis, jr., C; Dorothy Dodous, sr., G; Cagney O’Brien, sr., G/F
Outlook: The Eagles will look to run and get the ball to Wajer in the open court. They’ll need to improve on defense to be competitive with the top teams in the region.
POLAND
Coach: Michael Susi, third year
Last season: 7-12, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Nathalie Theriault, jr., G; Morgan Brousseau, jr., F; Jessica Seeley, jr., F; Lexy Grondin, jr., G
Outlook: Susi says his team will again be undersized but quick, and hopes to challenge for a playoff spot again. The Knights face a challenging schedule in the Western Maine Conference.
SACOPEE VALLEY
Coach: Chris Hughes, ninth year
Last season: 9-9
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Helen Ruhlin, sr., G; Nette Humphrey, sr., G; Haiden Sawyer, jr., F; Tiana Garland, sr., F; Brynn Hink, jr., F/G; Hannah Manchester, sr., F; Stacie Barton, sr., F; Bethany Dehmer, jr., F
Outlook: The Hawks bring back an experienced group, having lost only one starter. Hughes says his team will need to apply pressure to cause turnovers and create some easy baskets. Sacopee also is looking for more balance on offense. The schedule is challenging, but with continued improvement the Hawks could contend for a tournament berth.
WELLS
Coach: Don Abbott, 11th year
Last season: 8-11, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 5
Impact players: Natalie Thurber, sr., G; Halee Ramsdell, sr., F; Taryn Lambert, sr., F; Ally O’Brien, sr., G; Hannah Moody, sr., G; Alyssa Loukola, sr., F; Sara Ring, sr., G
Outlook: The starting lineup consists of five seniors who have started since their sophomore year. Overall, the team returns 12 players who contributed meaningful minutes last season. “We need to win the rebounding and turnover battles to be successful” said Abbott.
YARMOUTH
Coach: Christina Strong, fourth year
Last season: 9-10, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Cory Langenbach, sr., G; Alison Clark, sr., F; Johanna Hattan, sr., F: Isabel Bates, jr., G
Outlook: Leading scorers Clark and Langenbach return for the Clippers, who will rely on height and experience. Johanna Hattan and Isabel Bates give Yarmouth versatility on offense with their ability to score from both inside and outside. The addition of Sara D’Appolonia, who took a year off, should bring continuity to the offense.
Class C
BOOTHBAY
Coach: Tanner Grover, fifth year
Last season: 20-2, lost in state final
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Faith Blethen, so., G; Page Brown, jr., F; Kate Friant, sr., G; Nicole Clarke, sr., F; Sydney Meader, jr., G; Angie Perkins, sr., F; Alexis Welch, sr., F.
Outlook: Boothbay lost only one senior from last year’s regional championship team. With big-time scoring threats in Blethen and Brown and a strong supporting cast, the Seahawks have all the ingredients to make another deep tourney run. “We have a very intelligent group of kids” says Grover. “All of our players are high-honor students. In the senior class, we have probable candidates for both valedictorian and salutatorian. I’d go on record to say that we have arguably the smartest team in the state.”
HYDE
Coach: Jennifer Lobozzo, second year
Last season: 6-12, lost in regional prelim
Returning starters: 2
Impact players: Emma Levensohn, sr., F; Timesha Walker, sr., G; Alice Yokabaskas, so., F; Anna Doline, jr., G
Outlook: The Phoenix lost four of their best players to graduation, so they’re rebuilding with new, skilled underclassmen. Seniors Levensohn, Walker, Allie Grover, Willow Beavis offer experience and leadership.
NORTH YARMOUTH ACADEMY
Coach: Seth Farrington, second year
Last season: 2-16
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Maggie Larson, so., G; Sydney Plummer, so., C; Lindsay Tufts, sr., PG; Katie Larson, fr., G; Helen Hamblett, so., F
Outlook: Even with four returning starters, the Panthers have a very young lineup. Farrington said they’ll try to pick up their offensive pace in search of easier scoring opportunities.
OLD ORCHARD BEACH
Coach: Dean Plante, 14th year (not consecutive)
Last season: 7-12, lost in regional prelim
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Brianne Plante, jr., G; Emily Greenlee, so., F; Samantha Donnell, so., G; Maggie Strohm, fr., C; Tiffany Leclair, sr., F
Outlook: Plante says his team has some depth and size, and balance and speed are strengths. “We will still be relatively young, but hope to improve and be tournament ready,” said Plante. “We have a tough schedule, and there are some very good teams in Class C.”
TRAIP ACADEMY
Coach: Scott Blake, fourth year
Last season: 8-12, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Marina Casey, sr., F; Cassidy Delano, jr., F; Kiara Perez, sr., G; Reilly Eddy, jr., F; Sierra O’Brien, sr., G/F; Mia Perez, so., G; Kiley Chambers, jr., G; Claire Dodge, jr., G/F
Outlook: Blake likes his team’s chances of going deep into the playoffs. Delano and Casey the top scorers last season, and Perez also returns at point guard. Traip’s ability to handle pressure and knock down outside shots will decide how far it goes in the playoffs.
WAYNFLETE
Coach: Mike Jefferds, second year
Last season: 7-12, lost in regional prelim
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Izzy Burdick, jr., G; Lydia Giguere, jr., G/F; Annika Brooks, sr., F/C; Ali Pope, sr., G/F; LZ Olney, jr., G/F; Emi Boedeker, so., F/C
Outlook: Jefferds expects the Flyers to be improved now that the players have a year of experience with a new coaching staff and new systems. He says the team has a good mix of young players and veteran varsity players. Defense should be a strength, and the offense will likely be balanced.
WISCASSET
Coach: Ben Clark, second year
Last season: 3-15
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Gabby Chapman, sr., G; Haylee Craig, sr., F
Outlook: The Wolverines are a young, athletic team that should be improved from last season. “We are excited to have the season (get) under way,” said Clark.
Class D
GREATER PORTLAND CHRISTIAN
Coach: Jeff Mears, first year
Last season: 6-13, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 1
Impact players: Natalie Smith, sr., F/C; Aubrey Viekman, jr., F; Kaley Brann, so., F; Megan Smith, so., G; Courtney Spaulding, so., G; Grace Mears, eighth grade, G/F
Outlook: This will be a rebuilding year for the Lions, who have a young team without a lot of experience. Natalie Smith, the only returning starter, and Viekman, a transfer, will lead the team.
PINE TREE ACADEMY
Coach: Josh Dayen, fourth year
Last season: 10-9, lost in regional quarterfinal
Returning starters: 3
Impact players: Alex Goodman, jr., G; Angel Hood, sr., F; Stephie Kayumba, sr., F; Adriana DePalma, so., G
Outlook: The Breakers have a chance to be a top contender in Class D South, led by Goodman, who has been a starter since the eighth grade and has already surpassed 1,000 career points. Dayen says he has a versatile team that responds well to tough matchups.
SEACOAST CHRISTIAN
Coach: Charlie Johnson, 14th year
Last season: 0-18
Returning starters: 4
Impact players: Courtney Williams, jr., C; Katie Pilkington, so., G; Abby Wirling, so., G; Cassidy Leech, so., F
Outlook: The Guardians have only one senior on the roster for the second straight season and just eight healthy players in all, not counting Leech, who is injured. Williams, at 5-11, is the team’s top scorer and rebounder, capable of averaging a double-double. “We’re definitely a better team,” said Johnson. “It’s hard to tell how much better until we start playing.”
– Staff report
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