Coach: Chris Bessey (second year)

Last year’s record: 18-2, lost in Western Class B semifinals

Returning players: Seniors — Josh Wilcox (6-2 forward), Pat Ryan (5-10 guard); Junior — Scottie Hall (5-8 guard); Sophomore — Peter Theriault (5-11 guard).

Key losses: 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), Trevin Dunlop (6-4 forward).

Promising newcomers: Senior — Nate Hamblin (5-10 guard); Juniors — John McKenna (6-0 forward), Austin Couture (5-10 forward), Anthony York (6-3 center), Deonte Ring (6-0 forward), Tyler Kachnovich (6-1 forward); Freshmen — James Ouellette (5-11 forward), Andrew Darling (5-8 guard).

Outlook: Spruce will be inexperienced after losing the top seven players from a team that beat Class C champion Dirigo during the season and routed Wells in the Class B tournament. Theriault and Ryan saw limited minutes on that team. The rest of the team is raw but talented. The Phoenix will have athleticism but not a wealth of size.

Coach’s comment: “I think we have the ability to surprise some teams later in the year.” — Coach Chris Bessey