Coach: Lucas Turner (second year)

Last year’s record: 10-9, lost in Western Class C preliminary

Returning letter winners: Seniors — Tim Whitmore (6-0 guard), Robby Neal (6-1 guard), Roger Bachelder (6-3 forward), Jeremy Ashlock (5-8 guard); Juniors — Ben Woodman (6-0 forward), Scott Peacock (5-10 forward).

Key losses: Corey Dyke, Elliott Kahl, Ryan Baillargeon.

Promising newcomers: Juniors — Nick Trenholm (5-9 guard), Kevin Anderson (6-2 forward); Sophomores — Devin West (5-10 guard), Drew McFarren (6-2 guard); Freshman — Brandon Goff (6-0 forward).

Outlook: Monmouth qualified for its first Western C tournament since 1977, falling to Traip at home in the opening round. One of this year’s goals is to continue that progress. Led by the return of point guard Whitmore, starter Neal and last year’s sixth man Bachelder, the Mustangs are considered one of the top teams in a balanced MVC South. Defense and a disciplined halfcourt game were Monmouth’s calling card in 2009-10. Without overwhelming size, those traits will be equally important as the Mustangs shoot for an encore playoff appearance.

Coach’s comment: “I think this year in the MVC you’re going to be looking at a lot of thrilling games decided in the fourth quarter.” — Coach Lucas Turner