The Phoenix return three starters and five of the top seven from last year and expect that experience to pay off with a deeper playoff run.

“The first five are good and got a ton of time last year, and this is the first time in my time here that we’ve had back-to-back years in a conference, so we’re more familiar with the conference and our opponents,” coach Scott Bessey said. “Our bench needs to get deeper, but that’s going to get better as the season goes along.”

Regardless of how the bench shakes out, Spruce Mountain will have the shooters to produce in its fast-paced offense.

Austin Darling, a feisty three-year starter, Noah Preble and Caulin Parker, have the experience to not second-guess their shots, which is what coach Scott Bessey is looking for to play their non-traditional style. Shink may be the best long-range bomber in the lineup. The hope is Brett Frey and Andrew Shaw can give them more room to operate on the perimeter by getting to the hoop.

Bessey believes he has a team with the skill and experience to challenge for a title in Class B. If it develops the mental toughness and depth, too, it could.

Promising newcomers:  Seniors — Tyler Posson (5-9 guard), Cam Mitchell (6-3 forward); Juniors — Jordy Daigle (5-10 guard), Nick Lombardi (6-2 forward), Shane Pelletier (5-10 guard/forward); Sophomore — Kayle Stewart (5-9 guard).