Coach: Brian Kelly (second year)

Last year’s record: 11-7

Returning players: Seniors — Kyle Storer (6-3 center). Jake Lord (5-11 guard); Juniors — Zach Bonnevie (5-11 guard), Jake Bessey (6-1 guard), James Barker (6-1 forward), Nate Shink (6-2 forward), Tyler Gervais (5-11 guard), Bill Calden (5-9 guard).

Key losses: Austin Clark, Jordan DeMillo.

Promising newcomers: Senior — Jordan P. Couture (5-10 forward); Juniors — Isaac Couture (6-4 forward), Kyle Ainsley (6-2 forward), Trevin Dunlop (6-4 forward)

Outlook: The Tigers are poised to end a nagging tournament drought. The backcourt returns intact after Bessey and Bonnevie received a baptism by fire and steadily improved throughout the season as sophomores. Storer is a tireless rebounder who expects to increase his scoring output. Barker was a pleasant surprise last winter and may be ready for a breakout year. The few newcomers provide size and strength. Jay again faces a rugged schedule in the MVC North, but turning around two or three of last year’s close losses should be enough to punch the Tigers’ ticket to Augusta.

Coach’s comment: “We’re still young, but they know more about what it takes. So far they’ve definitely upped their game.” — Coach Brian Kelly