Season Opener: Friday, December 18, 7 p.m. at Pascack Valley High School in Hillsdale, N.J.

Head coach:  Al Coleman (9th season)

Key Games from last year: Win against West Milford to clinch state playoff berth, Home win against Pascack Hills

Key losses from last year: There were no seniors last year, but Noah Baumgarten (Jr. F), a second half starter last year, is out for the entire year with a shoulder injury.

Key returnees from last year: Colin Dedrick (Sr. F), Jon Piccinich (Sr. F), Eric Ziccarelli (Sr. G),Legend Dominguez (Jr. G), Matt Vasel (Jr. G), Kyle McManus (Sr. G), Matt Domville (Jr. C)(currently out with hand injury)

Key newcomers: Justin Balestra (Sr. G) Alex Lin (Soph. F),

Strengths of team: Chemistry is strong point for this team. With no seniors last year, this groupof guys got to spend the entire season getting used to each other and how they played on the court. “Last year, it was a premium for these guys to be on the court in a scenario they had never been in before,” said Coleman. “I am a big believer in ‘learn by doing’.” The team has a good balance between big guys and guards, with Dedrick, Piccinich, and Domville being able to handle the role of post players and Dominguez, Vasel, Ziccarelli, and McManus handling the backcourt.

Areas that need improvement: While there are many key players off of the bench, depth could be an issue. Coleman believes that every man will contribute to winning and thinks that his team can go “ten deep”. However, guys like Baumgarten and Domville, who are both injured, are hard to replace. The team’s depth will certainly be tested in the games prior to Domville’s return to the hardwood.

Coach’s comment: “Balance is key and it helps that we have big guys that are able to get inside and shooters who can spread our game outside,” said Coleman. “Everyone will definitely have to chip in and increase their play from last year.”