The Patriots went all in on the rebuilding program last year, and while their record suffered their freshmen gained significant varsity experience that should start paying dividends this season.

Even though the growing pains will continue with the young nucleus, but coach Ryan Deschenes believes his team has the ingredients to surprise some people and make a run at the playoffs.

They have plenty of size, including returning point guard John Martin, who can present some matchup problems with his 6-2 frame. His backcourt-mate, John Henry Villanueva, is another returning starter and brings toughness to both ends of the floor. The rest of the teams has a solid blend of speed and shooting

“We like our depth overall, which will make practices a lot of fun and competitive,” Deschenes said.

It could also make the Patriots a dangerous team playing their best basketball in February.

Coach: Ryan Deschenes (fifth year)
Conference: WMC; Class: B South
Gray-New Gloucester
Last year’s results: 2-16
Returning athletes: Seniors — John Henry Villanueva (6-1 guard), Tanner Mann (6-3 forward); Juniors — Josh Rottari (5-8 guard), Zach Brady (6-6 center); Sophomores — John Martin (6-2 guard), Hunter Colby (6-5 center), Ryan Lachance (6-5 center), Josh Magno (5-11 guard), Jake Kackmeister (6-4 forward). 
Key losses: Zack Haskell, Kyle Keenan, R.J. Chamberland, Justice Bowie.
Promising newcomers: Junior — Oliver Grant (5-8 guard); Sophomores — Wyatt Edwards (6-2 guard), Conny Myatt (6-1 forward).

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