Defense is a constant at Edward Little and has been ever since Mike Adams became the head coach. It may be the biggest reason the Red Eddies have consistently competed in Class A and now AA .

The Eddies should have defense to fall back on again as they work out the kinks in their offense this season. And that should keep them in the hunt for a regional title.

“We have a lot of new pieces and we’ve got a lot of things to improve,” Adams said. 

Offensive talent isn’t the question. The Eddies should be able to score inside and outside. The issue is getting that talent to work as a cohesive unit.

Before and after that happens, senior forward Darby Shea and junior forward Wol Maiwen will be the focus of opposing defenses. Shea is a deadly outside shooter, and Adams is counting on the athletic Maiwen to provide more points in the paint this year. 

The key will be how complementary roles develop for returning starting guard Tyler Morin, senior Lewiston transfer Ibn Khalid and others. If all of the new pieces fit together, the Eddies could be the team to solve the Portland puzzle.

Coach: Mike Adams (17th year)

Conference: KVAC; Class: AA North

Last year’s results: 18-2, lost in AA North final.

Returning players: Seniors —Darby Shea (6-2 forward), Tyler Morin (5-9 guard), Terrell Thomas (6-2 forward), Grant Hartley (6-2 forward); Juniors — Wol Maiwen (6-4 forward), Caleb Yarnevich (6-0 guard), Ahmed Abadir (5-9 guard), Ethan Brown (6-3 forward); Sophomore — Storm Jipson (6-0 guard), Austin Brown (6-1 guard).

Key losses: Jarod Norcross Plourde, Samatar Iman, C.J. Jipson.

Promising newcomers: Seniors — Ibn Khalid (6-3 forward), Xzabier Weaver (6-4 forward); Junior—Eric Robinson (6-3 forward).