The Dirigo Cougars showed their youth last year, but they also showed enough talent to have the rest of the MVC and Class C fretting that they wouldn’t be in rebuilding mode for long.

With virtually the entire roster intact from a 5-14 season, the Cougars are focused on some of the intangibles that can often be the key to turning that record around.

“We lost a lot of close games last year, so we’re going to do our best to be mentally tougher and close out games,” coach Travis Magnusson said.

Magnusson liked how his players progressed during summer basketball, particularly at the defensive end. The offense should also be more efficient, led by a pair of three-year starters, Luke Lueders and Cooper Chiasson. 

Juniors Alex Gorham and Jeremy St. Germain and sophomore Chase Clark also return to the starting lineup. 

Coach: Travis Magnusson (seventh year)

Conference: MVC; Class: C South

Last year’s results: 5-14, lost in C South preliminary round.

Returning players: Seniors — Cooper Chiasson (6-0 forward), Luke Lueders (5-9 guard), Jacob Gaudin (5-9 guard), Wes Libby (6-2 forward); Juniors —Jeremy St. Germain (6-4 center), Alex Gorham (5-9 guard), Chandler Redmond (5-9 guard), Cam Kidder (6–4 center); Sophomores — Chase Clark (6-2 forward), Mateo Lapointe (5-10 guard).

Key losses: None.

Promising newcomers: Freshmen  — P.J. Merrill (5-7 guard), Cole Brown (5-10 forward), Liam Burnett (5-10 forward).