Last season we saw the Colebrook Mohawks capture their second Division IV title in program history, and their second in the last four years. 

 Another chapter was added to the Colebrook-Groveton rivalry in last year's championship game, something we could see a repeat of this season. 

 We could see a multitude of things happen in this division, as it feels like their is no clear-cut "favorite" so to say. 

 A team like Littleton, who lost in the quarterfinals to Newmarket made the case for best team in the North Country last season, splitting two games with Colebrook and taking two of three from Groveton.

 A team like Woodsville, who was the 14-seed heading into the playoffs and making a run all the way to the Final Four. 

 As you can see, the North Country was dominant last year, fielding three of the four semifinalists, and with the rosters many of these teams return we could see a similar story play out. 

 The southern teams certainly have a case to turn the tides with Epping returning their entire rotation, and Farmington and Newmarket bringing back competitive teams as well. 

 Today, in our first of eight pre-season basketball previews, we take a deep-dive look at Division IV.

 Today's column is brought to you by White Mountains Community College! 

 

Pre-Season Top 10 Rankings

1. Littleton 

2. Colebrook 

3. Groveton

4. Woodsville

5. Epping 

6. Farmington

7. Newmarket

8. Hinsdale 

9. Wilton-Lyndeborough

10. Pittsburg-Canaan

Lurking outside of the Top 10: Portsmouth Christian, Sunapee, Profile, Gorham, Franklin

 

After falling short in the quarterfinals last season, Littleton returns their entire rotation with a year of valuable experience under their belts. 

 “I have never had this luxury before,” said head coach Dale Prior. “Practice has been a little more varsity-paced early on than normal.” 

 The buy-in from this group showed during the summer as well, playing teams in New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont to sharpen their skills. 

 The loss to Newmarket felt like a missed opportunity for a Crusader team that would have played eventual runner-up Groveton in the semifinals, a team they took two out of three games from last winter. 

 “Some feel disappointed about the loss in the quarters,” said Prior. “That was a good building block for this core.” 

 Addison Hadlock made a name for herself last season, leading Littleton to a top-four seed as a sophomore. 

 “Addison is so versatile,” said Prior. “We can put her on the wing, down in the post, she can even bring the ball up if needed. She doesn’t need to lead us in scoring, this year will be about balance, but if we need a good possession we can throw it to her on the block and have her go to work.” 

 Hadlock’s presence is always felt on the offensive end, but defensively she will be relied upon to be a double-digit rebounder and stay out of foul trouble. 

 “Consistently averaging a double-double is what I would like to see,” said Prior. “She is the quiet leader on the floor and works so hard. I think she has a chance to win Player of the Year. She means that much to our team.” 

 Lauryn Corrigan and Ella Horsch once again make up the starting backcourt for Littleton. “They really worked on their shooting this offseason,” said Prior. “We have to be able to stretch the floor, especially against zone.” 

 Addison Pilgrim shined as an eighth grader, scoring seven points a night, which was good enough for third-best on the team. 

 “She has put time into working on mid-range jumpers,” said Prior. “She wants to be more than one dimensional, and prove to be more than just a finisher inside.” 

 JuJu Bromely had a solid freshman campaign and is another player who worked on her jumpshot throughout the offseason. 

 “Newmarket didn’t guard her in the quarters,” said Prior. “That will never happen again. She is the most athletic player on the floor, especially defensively.” 

 The starting unit, along with Avah Lucas, all have the ability to score in double figures on a nightly basis. “We can do a lot of things with that core six,” said Prior. “We have to use our athleticism to our advantage to create transition.” 

 In years past, it seemed like Littleton was good for at least an appearance in the Final Four every season, but over the past three, the Crusaders have only made it as far as the quarterfinals.

 “It would be nice to end that drought,” said Prior. “These kids will run through a brick wall for one another. The thing I like so far is their focus on how successful they want to be. Their chemistry and cohesiveness as a group is encouraging. From starters to players at the end of the bench, everybody is engaged.” 

 The defending champion Colebrook Mohawks will once again be fighting for a title along with many other contenders in the North Country. 

 The core of Ariana Lord, Emma McKeage, and Sierra Riff had been staples of this program for the last five seasons, but now the keys are turned over to all-state guard Haley Rossito. 

 “I expect a lot of good things from her,” said head coach Duane Call. “She really works on her game seven days a week.”

 Only a sophomore, Rossitto already has four years of varsity experience under her belt. One of the craftiest scorers in Division IV will now have the task of truly running the offense. 

 “Obviously she is the player everyone knows about,” said Call. “She will be a marked girl all season long.” 

 With that attention, things will open up for others around her. For a team that averaged around 46 points per game last season, nearly half of those points are gone due to graduation. 

 Sophomore Niomie Nadeau is a player that took a leap towards the end of last year, and now becomes a primary option for the Mohawks. 

 “She was our seventh player off the bench towards the end of last season and had some big moments in the playoffs,” said Call. “She will be a key player.” 

 Lexi Santamaria also saw meaningful minutes off the bench last season, and now looks to step into a starting role.

 The roster totals out to 10 players, with nine high schoolers and one eighth grader to complete the bunch. 

 “Most everyone played this summer and that helped start the process of playing varsity-level basketball,” said Call. “Now it is a matter of blending everyone together and continuing to improve throughout the season.” 

 As always, the North Country schedule is no joke, as Call knows his group will have their hands full. 

 “We are just hoping to be competitive in every game and get into the playoffs somewhere,” said Call. “We have a streak going of finishing in the top eight. Getting a home playoff game is huge because of our floor. That is the goal.” 

 There will be a lot of new faces, but this program is known for its competitiveness, which is something that will not waiver. “I think we will surprise some people with how we play,” said Call.

 The Groveton Eagles were one of the teams to beat all season long last year, falling just one game short to rival Colebrook in the finals. 

 “It was really a terrific season last year,” said head coach Tim Haskins. “This year we will have a bit of a different look.” 

 Marissa Kenison, Madison Ash, and Katherine Bushey played vital roles on last year’s runner-up squad, especially with the size they provided. 

 “We won’t have as much of an inside presence like last year,” said Haskins. “We may play a little bit of a different style than in years past.” 

 The backcourt of Aspen Clermont, who found her way into the starting lineup at the end of last season, and Paige Lambert, the quick guard and lone senior on the team,  will handle a bulk of the ball-handling duties.

 “I am looking for them to force turnovers on the perimeter,” said Haskins. “That will be big for us. We will give up something inside, so we need to put more pressure on the perimeter.

 All-state forward Delaney Whiting returns after a more than impressive freshman campaign last season, leading the team in scoring during the postseason. 

 “She is already going to be the focal point of the scoring attack,” said Haskins. “She can get a combination of points shooting outside or going to the basket. She will embrace that number one option role.” 

 Whiting along with Clermont and Lambert are returning starters and will have more extensive roles within the offense. 

 “Paige’s shot is starting to come back around and we are pushing Aspen to score in double figures,” said Haskins. “All three of them will be primary scoring options.” 

 The Eagles rotation should go about eight deep to start the regular season. Kandrah Savage will provide stability inside. “We aren’t very tall as is, but she can jump well and has good speed going up and down the court,” said Haskins. 

 Kaycee and Julia Chappell both will see key minutes for Groveton, with Kaycee being able to get into the guard rotation and Julia providing size and hopefully some scoring at the forward position. 

 “Our chances depend on what we get from our newcomers,” said Haskins. Two of those newcomers will be Mylee and Makalyn Kension who should be in the mix early on. 

 Groveton will lean on their experience, especially at the guard position, and try and make up for their lack of size with quick transition play

  It was a Cinderella-like run for the Woodsville Engineers last season, making the Final Four as the 14-seed and being a few possessions away from making the finals. 

 “It was nice to see the girls rally at the end of last year,” said head coach Tori Thayer. “We started to put things together.” 

 The team features no seniors this year and will feature young players stepping into new roles. “It is going to be about experience and court time,” said Thayer. 

 Junior Paige Royer emerged as a scoring threat last season and can be a real presence on the low post.

 “She continues to work really hard,” said Thayer. “I am excited to see what she can do in the paint.” 

 Makayla Walker was an impact freshman a season ago, and as a sophomore will resume the role of point guard for the Engineers. 

 With a good outside shot and a knack for facilitating, Walker has the chance to make a real jump and has a great pick-and-roll partner in Royer to work with. “I am very interested to see how they play off one another,” said Thayer.

 Eliza Wagstaff led the team in scoring a season ago and will once again be a primary scoring option for Woodsville. 

 Katie Houston will also be a featured part of the rotation. “I saw Eliza and Katie develop a lot of maturity on the soccer field,” said Thayer. “I think that can carry over to the court.”

 Woodsville should once again be amongst the potential contenders in the North Country. 

 “My goal is to develop over these 18 regular season games,” said Thayer. “They are really like scrimmages, it is the last four games of the year that count. I am hoping we can use the regular season to make adjustments. No game will be a given. I am excited to see where this season takes us.”

  After a 14-4 regular season, the Epping Blue Devils return nearly their entire rotation for the ‘23-24 campaign. “That record was about the best-case scenario for us,” said head coach Gabe Mosca.

 The Blue Devils scored right around 35 points per game and gave up just a shade under 30 a game. 

 This team was no stranger to tight games, going 7-1 in games decided by six points or fewer. “That is one of those things, can we keep pulling rabbits out of the hat,” said Mosca. “While this is something we are capable of doing, it is not something we can always replicate.”

 Returning to lead the charge is forward Laney McAniff, who has led the team in scoring the last two years. 

 “She has the confidence to score at all three levels,” said Mosca. “Even though she led us in scoring, it was just under 10 points per game. That just showed we scored pretty evenly across the board.” 

 Her twin sister Mae McAniff will once again control things on the offensive side of the ball at the point guard spot. 

 “From two years ago to last year, we took nearly 200 more shots, which speaks to her ability to control the tempo of the game,” said Mosca.

 Anabelle Shumway was an honorable mention all-state selection last season and is another scoring punch for the Blue Devils. 

 “She really improved throughout last season,” said Mosca. “She is so steady defensively and knows her position and offensively is our best free throw shooter.” 

 Autumn Loving will be a defensive stopper for Epping. “Whenever we play a zone defense she is typically given the most challenging job,” said Mosca.

 Junior Emily Carleton, who hit the game-winning three-pointer in another classic Epping-Newmarket game that we got to cover, and Rachel Mazzone, who will provide some needed height down low, could both be in line to see some starts throughout the season. 

 Mosca knows there is not much separating his team and the ones around them, making every game a coin toss from the opening tip. 

 “One thing we have been stressing is pace,” said Mosca. “Can we get more turnovers in the backcourt, make more free throws, swing the ball better to get three-point shots that are more open. We are looking for the small advantages.” 

 A top-three finish was a big accomplishment for this program, but falling short in the playoffs is something that will be a motivating factor early on.“Just as long as we are playing our best towards the end of the season that is all that matters,” said Mosca.

 After yet another top-eight finish, the Farmington Tigers look to make a deeper run into the postseason this time around. 

 The lone senior on this squad is Callie Rocheleau who is described as “one of those players every coach wants” by head coach Dawn Weeks. 

 “She glows in her role,” said Weeks. “She really holds us together. I can’t say enough good things about her.” 

 All-state forward Madison Ricker is primed for yet another big season as a junior. She missed the start of last season due to illness but should be ready to go from the jump this time around. 

 “The perfect spot for her is as a three,” said Weeks. “She can come off the wing, shoot the three, and get to the lane. She is very versatile.” 

 Fellow juniors Ryleigh Hogan and Jaelyn Prosper will be relied upon even more this season for the Tigers. 

 “Ryleigh is going to be fun to watch,” said Weeks. “She is growing into her height and athleticism. She is a great rebounder. I am hoping we can get even more out of her.”

 The lefty Prosper brings the energy from the opening tip. “She plays with a different intensity than everyone out on the floor,” said Weeks. “She is a dynamo and a great perimeter shooter.”

 Sophomore Ana Cardinal showed flashes as a freshman that she can be a real contributor. “She is really showing me fabulous defense and rebounding in practice. I am excited with her.” 

 Fellow sophomore Anna Hebert is a smaller guard, but sound defensively, something that will help her see floor time at the varsity level.

 Freshman Zoey Johnson will be an impact player fairly quickly for Farmington. “She is going to make some noise,” said Weeks. 

 Like any freshman, there will be an adjustment period, but Johnson has a chance to be a special player. 

 “She plays the left block like a senior,” said Weeks. “She is not where she is going to be just yet, but the peaks we can see are promising.” 

 Height will be a real advantage for Farmington. Many can play the low block but also can grab a rebound and bring the ball up the floor. Versatility will be infused throughout the Tiger lineup. 

 Last year’s first-round loss was a blessing in disguise for this group. “It was a great experience builder for our players,” said Weeks. “Even with our schedule this year it is going to be tough, which I love. I would rather lose games during the regular season and fight and become a better team.”

 Farmington should be a group that finds themselves in the middle of things come playoff time. 

 After a run to the Final Four, the Newmarket Mules return a “young, scrappy, and hungry” group according to head coach Meghan Averill.

 “This group won’t back down from a challenge and will show up every day with high effort and energy,” said Averill.

 Lena Nicholson was a crucial part of this offense with her height and size inside last season. Losing her to graduation will change how this group will play, especially on the offensive end. “This group is quick, so we have to play to that strength,” said Averill. 

 The Mule defense, as they usually are, will be one of the best the division has to offer. We saw how they slowed the game down against Littleton in the quarterfinals and forced them to play a low-scoring slugfest. 

 While this is something they can still turn to, they won’t have a low post presence like they had in Nicholson when they needed a bucket. 

 The focus will now turn to sophomore Amaya Beckles, who had a strong first season at the varsity level, averaging 7.2 points per game. 

 The combo guard will be the first option on most nights and will have the chance to show a bit more self-creation than we saw out of her last season. 

 “Amaya has great athleticism and knowledge for the game,” said Averill. How she can dictate pace will be a factor in how this Newmarket offense pans out this season. 

 The multi-sport athlete Jillian Long will be looked at as a leader for the Mules. Her mental toughness will be key to their success. 

 “We want to keep things simple this season,” said Averill. “We want to put pressure on teams while being able to play in control of ourselves and get better every day.” 

 The Mules will once again be a team that is capable of a Final Four-type run that they had last season. If the offense can come along, this team can be one of the most dominant teams down south.

 The Hinsdale Pacers were a top-ten team a season ago and have the pieces to be in that mix once again this winter. 

 The roster is made up of just nine players, but the entire starting five returns. “I am optimistic about this group,” said head coach Terry Bonnette. “As always, we have to play solid defense to compete.” 

 Brooke Pagach had a breakout season as a junior, leading the team in scoring at 15 points per game, and returns to run the offense as the point guard. 

 “She can handle well and get to the basket,” said Bonnette. “She can also stick the three.” 

 Addy Nardolillo has been a part of the team since she was in eighth grade, and now as a senior the versatile forward will look to lead the team back to the postseason. 

 “I thought she didn’t look for her offense as much as she should have last season,” said Bonnette. “I am expecting a big year out of her.” 

 Sophomore Daylyn Dupui showed the ability to crash the boards and also shoot from deep when called upon.  “We need her more active on the offense end this season,” said Bonnette. 

 Senior Aleah Owen started to find her rhythm towards the end of last season, something Bonnette thinks will carry over to this year. “We need her to be a good three-point threat and play solid defense.”

 Lilee Taylor is the defensive specialist for the Pacers and started to see increased playing time as the season went on last year. 

 Reese Howard saw minutes as an eighth grader last year and should be a staple in the rotation once again. Freshman Rylee Rockwood will provide a low post presence as both players will be key off the bench.

 Everyone will need to be a threat for Hinsdale, as once again they will look to take advantage of transition opportunities. 

 “Our goal is to always make the playoffs,” said Bonnette. “Within that, a home game would be great. We really want to get a home game and go from there.”

 After a near upset over Newmarket in the opening round last season, Wilton-Lyndeborough could be a sneaky good team once again this year. 

 “We are looking to build on last season,” said head coach Tom Crowley. “We lost a good chunk of scoring with the graduating seniors and everything else they brought, but we return a solid core.” 

 Senior Adri Bausha was a big reason the Warriors were within striking distance against the Mules in last year’s prelims. 

 “She is a very smart player,” said Crowley. “She is also a great competitor that is tough on both ends.” 

 Kelsey Crouse will bring a gritty defensive spirit to the court every game and is looking to make the leap on the offensive end. 

 Lexia Bausha was impactful as an eighth grader and is one of the more experienced freshmen coming into this season. 

 “She can make an even greater impact on both ends of the court this season,” said Crowley. 

 Maddy Labrecque and Haidyn Paquette are both a year more experienced at the varsity level and have shown two-way potential. 

 Freshman Dani Stratton and junior Maddie Clough could be in line for consistent playing time for the playoff-hopeful Warriors. 

 “This entire group will make an impact no matter the role they are given,” said Crowley. “Overall we have a competitive team. We are looking to compete for each game, make the playoffs, and see what we can do from there.” 

 The Pittsburg-Canaan Yellow Jackets will look to build on yet another playoff appearance as the 11-seed last season.

 All-defensive guard Jacqueline Giroux is the biggest loss to graduation as her toughness and ball-handling ability will be a big loss to this year’s team.

 “Her effort and hustle will be the hardest thing to replace when it comes to filling those shoes,” said head coach Matt Jordan. 

 The roster is made up of 15 players, seven being freshmen. “The group of freshmen are very athletic,” said Jordan. “It is going to be about getting their fundamentals and adjusting the speed of the game at the varsity level.” 

 Senior Saidy Placey is primed for a breakout season. “I think she has first-team potential,” said Jordan. 

 The dynamic shooting guard averaged a team-best 11.4 points per game last season, and with an increased workload could have that number go up substantially. 

 “She is a great three-point and free-throw shooter,” said Jordan. “We need her to attack the rim a bit more and add to her game.”

 Janessa Hodge is currently recovering from a torn ACL that she suffered at the end of last year. The hope is to have her back in the lineup by the first of the year.

 The Yellowjackets return six players who started games last year, including Leahana Haynes, who brings a good defensive ability to the table. 

 “We are looking for her to score a bit more this year,” said Jordan. “We want to be more flexible on defense this year, maybe a bit more uptempo. She will help with that.” 

 Sienna Grondin is one of the better rebounders the division has to offer and should be a force on the block as a sophomore. 

 Paige Robinson can score from three levels at the small forward position and the southpaw Arlyn Dorman will take over as the Yellowjacket point guard this season. “She is tough as nails,” said Jordan.

 Going 10-8 last year with a group that was a bit inexperienced and also had just lost 11 seniors from the season prior was an encouraging sign to Jordan on what his team can accomplish this year. 

 “They really had the chance to expand their roles last year,” said Jordan. “We hope that pays dividends this year.”

 It will be a new-look Portsmouth Christian Academy team taking the floor this winter. “It is a new generation coming in,” said head coach Katie Robertson. 

 The young Eagles will take time to develop, but also return all-state guard Ava Buchanan which should help this group stay on the right path. 

 “She stepped into a role where she played every minute of every game,” said Robertson. “This year will be more of a leadership role for her.” 

 The sophomore led the team in scoring at 13.2 points per game last season, and that number could increase with more touches on the offensive end. 

 The crafty guard will get a lot of attention from opposing defenses but has shown the ability to create for herself and others at a high level.

 Senior Kloe Mackenzie has seen an uptick in minutes every season and should have more of an expanded role this season. 

 Fellow senior Tatiana Stockbower will see a larger role as well, especially in the leadership department. “She has been a great instructor trying to get the younger players up to speed,” said Robertson.

 Freshman Jaela Stockbower, Eliza Arrwood, and Isabella Stevens are working hard to get up to the varsity speed once opening night comes around. 

 “They had a lot of success together in middle school,” said Robertson. “They love the game. Their chemistry is starting to build with the others.” 

 Everyone on the roster is at least a two-sport athlete if not three, so there's no lack of athleticism. “I see them play in a lot of games year-round, so it is good to see them transfer skills to the basketball court,” said Robertson.

 While there is a lack of varsity experience, the goal early on is to continue building chemistry and see how things start to take shape come January. 

 “We need to use our speed to our advantage,” said Robertson. “We need lockdown defense every night. The focus is on establishing things and fighting tooth and nail.” 

 Jim Tucker takes over the reins as the new Sunapee coach this year. “This is a really good group of girls,” said Tucker. “We are just kind of getting to know them as fighters, and they are getting to know me as a coach.”

 The Lakers were the seventh seed last year, but the loss of Elizabeth Tschudin will leave a big hole to fill on both ends of the court. 

 Sunapee will look to use its size to its advantage, and that starts with Jenna Caron. “She will do a lot of work on the glass,” said Tucker. 

 Katelyn Claus has shown the ability to be a knockdown shooter for the Lakers and will be a strong option at the guard spot. 

 “I am hoping she keeps developing those skills,” said Tucker. “She can settle down the backcourt when needed.” 

 Junior Emma Reed has been a great mentor for the younger players and will be used in a multitude of roles. 

 “Emma is so versatile,” said Tucker. “She can play forward or center, and can hit shots from mid-range.”

 Freshman Kate Pace should be an early addition to the rotation and play valuable minutes throughout the year. 

 First-year seniors Sophie Bourque and Madison Hughes will be valuable assets for the Lakers this winter. “They are both athletic,” said Tucker. “The biggest thing will be getting their confidence up.”

 The Lakers will need to find a new identity coming into the ‘23-24 season.“Hopefully we can get to a point where we are playing at a good tempo,” said Tucker. “We need to play defense and get turnovers.” 

 Filling the scoring loss of Tschudin will be a struggle, but this group as a unit can make strides toward putting the ball in the basket consistently. 

 “They are coming together as a unit, they pull tight as a team,” said Tucker. “Sunapee is a town that has a lot of pride in their basketball. We want to keep that going.”

 Profile accomplished their goal of making the playoffs last year, and the hope is they can take things a step further this season. 

 “I am seeing a lot more maturity this year,” said head coach Reed Weekes. “I have had this senior class since they were in middle school. I like what I am seeing out of them.” 

 The Patriots are coming off a Division IV soccer title, with a majority of the basketball team playing key roles on the pitch this season. “I can definitely see the carry-over to the basketball court,” said Weekes.

 Mya Brown has been amongst the scoring leaders for the Patriots the last four seasons and should be in a similar role again this winter. 

 “The thing we are working on most with her is consistency,” said Weekes. “When she is going full force not many are stopping her.” 

 Morgan Presby did not have the best start to the season shooting the ball, but towards the end of last year started to find a rhythm, something Weekes is hoping carries over. 

 Evie Burger was a player that was a bit of a wildcard last year, showing she could be a valuable piece to the Patriot puzzle. 

 “She really came on at the end of the season,” said Weekes. “For Evie and Morgan, the focus will be on shooting the ball well.” 

 Maddie Koehler will continue to bring constant energy like she did last year and Avery Gignac will step into a primary ball-handling role for her senior season. 

 “There is no player like Avery on our team,” said Weekes.”She may not be the biggest or the fastest, but whenever she gets knocked down she gets right back up. She always works hard.” 

 Kyah Knight missed the last few games of the regular season due to injury but has been impressive early on this season. 

 “She can be the anchor on offense and defense,” said Weekes. “I think she could have a really big year.” 

 The North Country schedule will do no favors, but Profile showed glimpses of a team that can compete with the best up there. 

 “When we play our game we can compete with anyone,” said Weekes.”The goal is to get a home playoff game, we have been trying to get that in the girl’s heads. I have high hopes and I know the girls do too.” 

 Pete Girouard takes over as head coach at Gorham and returns experienced upperclassmen ready to take a leap this season. 

 The biggest loss from last year’s team is Jessica Burton, who brought a toughness that is hard to match. 

 “Those are very tough shoes to fill,” said Girouard. “She did a little bit of everything for us.”

 While Burton will be missed, the return of Chaise Wade, whose season was cut short due to a broken leg, is back and ready to run the show at the point guard position. “As she goes, the team will go,” said Girouard. 

 Madison Girouard and Sara Godin will once again be the primary options offensively. Girouard’s ability to hit the three ball and also score inside pairs nicely with Godin’s ability to be a force on the offensive boards, creating second chances for herself and others. “They are probably going to do a bulk of scoring once again,” said coach Girouard. 

 Amber Wilson is back on the hardwood after taking a season off. “She has looked really good early,” said Girouard. “She gives us some toughness down low and is a very good rebounder. She reads the ball off the rim well.”

 Lily Gorban has the chance for a breakout season. “I think she will be a big contributor this year,” said Girouard. “Getting her confidence up is going to be big.” 

 Risa Gallant is another candidate who could step up in a big way this season. “She continues to improve her game every year and has the potential to be an impact player this year.”

 Girouard has been an assistant for the last few years and has coached many of these girls since they were in elementary school. There should not be too much of a transition period. 

 “There will be some subtle changes offensively,” said Girouard. “A lot of the girls are buying in so far and working hard.” 

 Consistency and more of an effort on the defensive end will be the make-or-break factors for the Huskies. 

 “What we can do on the defensive end will dictate what we accomplish,” said Girouard. “Something we are focusing on is scoring in transition and getting the ball up the floor quickly. That was a glaring deficiency last year. Hopefully, if we can push the ball and score in transition that will keep us in a lot of games.” 

 As always, Gorham will endure a difficult schedule, but the talent is there to compete with the contenders up north. 

 “I am hoping we can develop a program up here,” said Girouard. “Making the playoffs would be great, a home game would be even better, but right now are just looking to get things moving in the right direction. Our goal is going to be one percent improvement every day, and try and do things the right way.” 

 Making the playoffs for the first time in eight years was a huge confidence boost for a Franklin team that looks to carry over last season’s momentum. 

 Nine players return, including a talented starting five that could score in bunches last season. “We are still super young,” said head coach Mark Dionne. “We want to continue to build up the program.” 

 Eighth-grader Kourtney Kaplan was an all-state honorable mention selection after leading the Golden Tornadoes in scoring at 14.5 points per game. “She is already used to playing at the varsity level,” said Dionne.

 Her ascension alongside Lily Cornell who also put up 10.3 points per game last season makes for one of the better one-two punches in the division. 

 “We would like to be around .500 this season,” said Dionne. “Everyone is really eager to get on the court.” 

 Returning the experience they have, this group has the chance to make a case for better than the 15-seed come playoff time. 

 “As long as we stay together and work together, maybe we will surprise a few teams here and there,” said Dionne. “We want to make Franklin a program that people start to think about.” 

The Moultonborough Panthers started 0-4 last season but ended the year at 13-5, a turnaround even head coach Matt Swedberg was not expecting.

 Katie Velie was in the middle of everything the Panthers accomplished, as the all-state forward proved to be one of the best players in the division. With her graduating, this team will have a bit of a different look.

 “That was over 160 steals, our leading scorer, leading percentage shooter, and the statistical leader in every category for our team,” said Swedberg. 

 Charlotte Johnson is someone Swedberg can turn to early to try and lead the group with the years of experience she has under her belt. 

 “She makes sure everyone is on the same page,” said Swedberg. “She is out on the floor helping the youngsters understand what they are doing. She is really fun to watch.” 

 Senior Kailey Nagle has been in a backup role the last three years, but now has a starting opportunity in front of her. 

 “She is someone who has a newfound energy,” said Swedberg. “She looks like a different player this year.” 

 Alicia Johnson was putting up close to a double-double last season, a stat line that Swedberg is hoping can continue throughout this season while developing an outside game as well. 

 “We are looking for her to develop a handle, along with shooting and passing on the perimeter,” said Swedberg. “If she is able to start pulling out to the arc that will make her more dangerous.” 

 Senior Sadey Sherkanowski brings great speed to the Panthers lineup. “At one moment you think you see her and then you lose her,” said Swedberg. “She moves well without the ball.”

 Madison Hart will now take over as the point guard after spending last season off the ball as a two-guard. 

“She has development ahead of her, but she is getting better with handle and vision,” said Swedberg.

 Joining Hart in the backcourt will be Lauren Grinavic. “She is very athletic and is working on her accuracy with shooting,” said Swedberg. “Lauren and Madison need to be looking for shots, that will take pressure away from others.” 

 Payton Bernow will provide physicality inside and is described as a “bull in a china shop” by her head coach. 

 “She is developing a soft touch around the basket,” said Swedberg. “She had a lot of good games last year and we are hoping she can have more this year.”

 The forward depth is something Swedberg will look to take advantage of, with Makenna Eichhorn, Samantha Nagle, and Caroline Goren all competing for minutes at that spot. 

 “We will be tested early with our schedule,” said Swedberg. “I hope these girls have a chip on their shoulder heading into this season.”

 After a 6-12 regular season, Mount Royal returns just four high school players, with the rest of the team being made up of middle schoolers. 

 The biggest headline for this group is that sisters Claire and Katherine McMenaman will be sharing the floor together after injuries plagued them of any real minutes together.

 “Those two have a lot of experience,” said head coach Derek Tremblay. “They have been playing for a long time and I am so happy they can finally share the court together.”

 Maria Fraioli returns after an offseason of development and Tremblay sees the sophomore being a force for the Royals. 

 “We have a lot of girls at the same level that will have to do their part,” said Tremblay. “There are no superstars on this team.” 

 Jubilee Tremblay is a seventh grader who will see significant time right away for Mount Royal. “We are the smallest school in the state, this is normal that we have to pull these girls up,” said Tremblay. “It is very unconventional, but we are doing what we can to keep the program going.” 

 The schedule will be tough, but there is potential for this group to earn real experience this season. “I think we have six to seven girls that can compete on any given night,” said Tremblay. “We are gonna have to scrap and have to compete every night.” 

 The Pittsfield Panthers look to bounce back from a 2-16 regular season. "I am liking the confidence the girls have coming into the season," said head coach Logan LaRoche. "They are eager to get after it, making it an exciting environment to be apart of."

  Addison Clark will be stepping into the role of point guard for the Panthers. 

 "She has taken the reins," said LaRoche. "She is also one of our team captains this season." 

 Sydney Provencal and Sam Carney both will be more vocal on the floor this season. 

 "From their perspective, last year was a situation where they were learning how to play basketball in a team setting," said LaRoche. "Those two along with Addison have great chemistry and do a good job of playing inside-out. The game has slowed down for them." 

 Establishing control of pace and playing at their own tempo will be a key to success early on this winter.

 Ashley Clark will step into the starting lineup and comes into the season as one of the most improved players on the roster. 

 "She has a good looking jump shot," said LaRoche. "I am excited to see her on the perimeter and post. She will defend multiple positions, she rebounds well. I am excited to see her growth." 

 Eighth grader Chelseee Chagnon will see a lot of minutes. "I think she is someone who will catch people's attention with how polished she is as an eighth grader," said LaRoche. 

 While there is improvements that need to be made, this is a group that feels they can reach the postseason this year. 

 "One thing that stays the same from last year is an idea of getting better everyday," said LaRoche. "The playoffs are realistic to aim for this year. With the way these girls are engaged and working and dedicated to getting better, there is no doubt in my mind we can make a run at a playoff spot."

 Holy Family remain a young team, but come into this season a lot more experienced. 

 "It has been very encouraging early on," said head coach Joe Williams. "I am enthusiastic about it and the girls are too." 

 The Griffins lost just one senior from last year's team and bring in a freshman class with a lot of promise. 

 "We have the advantage this year with a couple of freshman coming in that are going to be pretty talented as they mature," said Williams. "We didn't have solid point guard play last year and that will change with this group." 

 Junior Elliany Gonzales-Pena is a player that surprised Williams with her development last season. 

 "I think this should be a good year for her," said Williams. "Playing against a player like Lena Nicholson with her strength inside and holding her to one of her lower scoring games of the season was big. That is just the kind of player she is. A hard worker who wants to continue learning the game." 

 Mariana Vicinanzo will be a defensive spark plug for this group. "She can play defense for days," said Williams. "She can be a difference maker for us." 

 Elizabeth McGee brings a competitive spirit that will be a major boost for a team looking to get into the win column a bit more this year. 

 "She is going to benefit a lot from playing off the ball this season." said Williams. "She is a smart player." 

 Keeping goals simple has been an emphasis early on. "We just want to play competitive ball," said Williams. "If we do that I think the wins will follow. This year we have a very competitive group that is going to work hard. I think we will be able to run with the other teams in the division."

  It will be another season of getting the program headed in the right direction for head coach Brent Covell and the Lisbon Panthers.

 Leading scorer Kaitlyn Clark has since graduated along with two other starters from last season’s 3-15 team. 

 Meredith Barnes and Arya Kimball will make up the starting backcourt while center Linnea Trudell will have a bigger role this season. 

 “Linnea is due for a breakout season,” said Covell. “She is very tall and should control the glass for us.” 

 Mya Drew, who has dealt with injuries the past few seasons, and sophomore Bailey Clark should provide more size as well for the Panthers. “They will both need to help on the glass and help our program move forward,” said Covell.

 There are seven newcomers that will get key minutes early on, something that Covell is excited to help develop this season.

 “We again are very very young and skill development is our main focus,” said Covell. “We play all the good North Country schools so trying to compete with these better programs is our goal. Every game is a big game for us.”

 

 

Pre-Season First Team All-State

Addison Hadlock of Littleton

Haley Rossito of Colebrook 

Delaney Whiting of Groveton 

Madison Ricker of Farmington 

Ava Buchanan of Portsmouth Christian

 

Pre-Season Second Team All-State

Brooke Pagach of Hinsdale

Lauryn Corrigan of Littleton 

Amaya Beckles of Newmarket

Kourtney Kaplin of Franklin

Saidy Placey of Pittsburg-Canaan

 

With apologies to: Lexia Bausha of Wilton-Lyndeborough, Paige Royer and Makayla Walker of Woodsville, Addy Nardolillo of Hinsdale, Sarah Godin and Madison Girouard of Gorham, Ella Horsch of Littleton, Lily Cornell of Franklin, Mya Brown of Profile, Laney McAniff and Annabel Shumway of Epping

 

Coming tomorrow: Division IV Boys