Coach: Chris Bessey (first year)

Last year’s record: Livermore Falls 12-8, lost in Western Class C quarterfinals; Jay 11-7, missed tournament.

Returning players: Seniors — Jake Bessey (6-1 guard), Zach Bonnevie (6-1 guard), James Barker (6-2 forward), Nate Shink (6-1 forward), Ben Keene (6-1 forward), Tyler Gervais (5-10 guard).

Key losses: Kyle Storer (Jay), Mike Armstrong (LF), Mike Anctil (LF), Mike Armstrong (LF), Bryan Maurais (LF), Sam Chabot (LF), Hunter Brett (LF).

Promising newcomers: Senior — Kenny Treadwell (6-3 forward), Levi Knapp (5-9 guard), Travis Williams (5-11 forward); Juniors — Nate Hamblin (5-11 guard), Pat Ryan (5-8 guard), Josh Wilcox (6-2 forward); Sophomore — Scottie Hall (5-7 guard).

Outlook: Jay and Livermore Falls combine under the direction of Bessey, who has coached both boys’ varsity programs and led the Jay girls to a Class C championship in his career. Most of the returnees are from Jay, which missed the playoffs by one spot each of the last three years. The Phoenix should be quick and athletic with Jake Bessey and Bonnevie fueling the offense and Barker and Keene headlining the rebounding efforts. Spruce played the likes of EL, Brunswick and Mt. Blue in the offseason and is well prepared for the rigors of the MVC and a jump to Western B.

Coach’s comment: “We want to go to the Portland Expo (Western B quarterfinals) and get some experience on that floor.” — Coach Chris Bessey

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