Coach: Doug Rines (third year)

Last year’s record: 8-11, lost in Western Class D quarterfinals

Returning letter winners: Senior — Kasey Robertson (6-6 center); Juniors — Austin Dooley (6-0 guard), Alan Hedrick (5-11 guard), Trevor Averill (5-9 guard), Cody Barker (6-1 forward).

Key losses: Nathan Corson, Jarek Boyd, Altan-och Erdenechuluun.

Promising newcomers: Senior — Derick Belanger (6-0 forward); Junior — Chase Barnes (6-0 forward); Sophomore — Scott Pierce (6-2 forward)l Freshmen — Kyle Chabe (5-9 guard), Jacob Kimball (5-9 guard), Keenan Stockdale (6-0 center), Robert Rowe (5-10 forward).

Outlook: Buckfield gets a boost from the return of Robertson, one of the top big men in Class D. Robertson was a bright spot in last year’s one-sided playoff loss to eventual Western Maine champion Richmond, scoring 17 points. The Bucks will emphasize defense and look for a balance between its strong post play and its ability to run and press with Dooley, Hedrick and Averill at the controls. After a recent run of early tournament exits, Buckfield hopes to earn a higher seed, contend in the East-West Conference and stick around for a while during February vacation.

Coach’s comment: “Our team is looking to improve last year’s record, and we are looking to compete in the top of our conference this year. We are in control of how far we go.” — Coach Doug Rines