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Pingree Boys Basketball Preview

Last year's record: 22-7

Coach: Steve Gibbs (5th season)

Key returnees: Allen Williamson, 6-4, Jr., F; Carlos O'Donnell, 5-9, Sr., G; Will Taft, 6-3, Sr., C; Derek Pratt, 6-2, Jr., F; J.J. Cronin, 6-2, Sr., F; Jesse Sullivan, 6-0, Sr., G; Cody Presbury, 5-11, So., G.; Pat George, 6-0, Jr., G.

Strengths: The Highlanders won the Eastern Independent League title for the third time in five years and Gibbs feel they have the most dominant player in the league in Williamson, who averaged 19 points and 10 rebounds last season. O'Donnell is in his third season at point guard and Pratt and Taft also have considerable experience. Lemarre Rey, a transfer from Beaver Country Day who is coming off a solid football season, should also provide a tremendous boost as a shooting guard and small forward. Pingree is already 4-2 this season and should be even better in a few weeks.

Concerns: Gibbs loves his starting lineup but isn't sure what he'll get from his young players off the bench. The Highlanders have already started the season and Gibbs remains curious about how quickly the football players will transition to basketball in a season where the team has high aspirations.

Coach's outlook: "We have a high-powered offense and a lot of experience. I would say anything short of New England (Prep School) Class D championship will be a bit of a letdown."