We once again had another epic battle of Bedford and Bishop Guertin on the final day of the season at UNH and the Cardinals walked away with their second straight title. 

 That BG core had a terrific run the last four years, as has that program for the last decade.

 While they are a group that is in the mix this year, the landscape of this division has changed as a whole. 

 There are a group of solidified contenders like usual, but there is going to be a grudge match to figure out what the five seed on looks like in Division I. 

 A hot shooting night or a long bus ride that makes your team sluggish could be the difference between getting a home playoff game or not making the postseason at all for some teams. 

 As always, the state's best division should produce some very interesting basketball again this season.

 Today, in our seventh of eight pre-season basketball previews, we take a deep dive into Division I.

 Today's column is brought to you by Great Bay Community College!

 

Pre-Season Top 15 Rankings

1. Bedford

2. Portsmouth 

3. Pinkerton

4. Londonderry

5. Goffstown

6. Bishop Guertin

7. Dover

8. Windham

9. Concord

10. Manchester Memorial

11. Keene

12. Salem 

13. Alvirne 

14. Exeter 

15. Spaulding

 

 The quest for another state title continues for Bedford, and this might be the team that can get the Bulldogs back on top. 

 “I am extremely excited,” said head coach Kevin Gibbs. “This is a very talented and deep group. I have never coached a team this deep.”

 6’4” center Lana McCarthy, who will be taking her talents to Purdue next year, is back to lead the charge. 

 McCarthy poses the biggest mismatch for any team in the state. Her soft touch down low and improved jump shot make her a nightmare for teams to gameplan for. 

 For a team that wants to get out and run, McCarthy is also able to get out in transition. “To have a center who can outlet, run down the floor, and get the ball back for a layup is a sight to behold,” said Gibbs.

 The all-state center has one championship to her name, and the hope is she can help Bedford to another one this season. 

 “This team is holding itself accountable and that starts with Lana,” said Gibbs. “She is someone who has credibility with the players and coaches. Lana is singularly focused on the team succeeding.”

 Junior Kate Allard is the perfect pairing to go alongside McCarthy and the two are described as the “most amazing one and one duo” by their head coach. 

 Allard stepped her game up as a sophomore, averaging 16.7 points per game and giving the Bulldogs a threat both inside and out. 

 “She brings such a wide range of skills,” said Gibbs. “The things she can do are irreplaceable.  She can stroke the three, get to the rim, finish putbacks, and her ability to use her length defensively has come along.” 

 Allard has the size to play down low, but her skills as an on and off-the-ball threat make her much more dangerous on the wing. 

 “She is a ball handler that continues to get better,” said Gibbs. “The court sense is there. Kate studies the game like no one I have ever seen.” 

 The all-state forward will be a captain alongside McCarthy and fellow junior Lyla Stein, who was the x-factor for this group last season. 

 “Lyla is a basketball junkie,” said Gibbs. “Sydney Grogan had the keys to the car the last two years and now the keys are in Lyla’s hands.”

 The Bulldog floor general can settle things down and get everyone organized but also has the ability to get her own shot when needed.

 “What people don’t realize is Lyla has some of the best moves to the rim to go with a knockdown outside shot,” said Gibbs. “She has become a lot stronger physically.” 

 The biggest additions to this group are Sarah and Megan Muir, who joined the team after two years and two titles at Concord Christian. 

 “Having Sarah and Megan come back home turned an already strong team into an even stronger one,” said Gibbs. “We will be able to do so many different things.”

 Sarah will join the starting lineup right away where her impact will be felt immediately. “In the words of Lani Buskey, Sarah is a dirt dog,” said Gibbs. “She is everywhere. She makes deflections and steals in the same play.” 

 The hustle plays are complimented by an efficient offensive game that gives the Bulldogs yet another weapon to go to. 

 “She gets to the rim as well as anybody,” said Gibbs. “She has an unstoppable motor.”

 Rounding out the starting lineup will be sophomore Annie Zink. “She is the fastest player on our team,” said Gibbs. “With her speed, she can be in two places at once.” 

 Defensively Zink shines, but offensively the hope is she can be more aggressive. “She has to take advantage of scoring opportunities,” said Gibbs. “She can finish and hit the outside shot. We need her to look for her shot.”

 Megan Muir will bring a great defensive skill set and hit the open shot. She will add to a bench that features the likes of sharpshooter Devlyn McDonald, and Grace Wolf who makes timely and smart plays every game. 

 Freshmen Mel McCarthy, Ella Allard, and Bella Landies will earn valuable experience at the varsity level and can make an impact right away. 

 “They have the opportunity to learn and play with great players,” said Gibbs. “That is a coach's dream.”

 The talent and chemistry are there, but the Bulldogs know it will take much more than those two factors to win it all. 

 “There is today and there is March 9th, and there are an awful lot of games until then,” said Gibbs. “They do have a chip on their shoulder. We are really going into depth with trackable goals. If we can achieve those goals, be on the same page, and stay focused, we should be in good shape.”

  The Portsmouth Clippers look primed for another deep postseason run. 11 return from a season ago, but the void  Bella Slover, Savannah Emery, Ariana Incollijngo, and Delaney Cote leave behind is still trying to be filled. 

 “They gave us depth at all three levels,” said head coach Tim Hopley. “We are still trying to find our identity, which is a common thing to deal with in early December.” 

 A good starting point for the Clippers is the return of all-state guard Avery Romps. “It does help to have a player like her when you are putting a team together,” said Hopley. 

 Romps has emerged as one of the premiere two-way players in the state with her ability to score efficiently and take opposing players out of the game with her sound defensive play.

 “She has shown leaps and bounds and improvement on both ends,” said Hopley. “She thinks like a scorer, so that helps her on the defensive end when trying to slow someone down. Her level of physicality has helped on both ends. We need that from her consistently.” 

 The biggest task for Romps will be taking on a leadership role. “She didn’t have to do that much with the teams we have had the last few years,” said Hopley. “To reach our true potential we will need her to be a leader for us.” 

 Margaret Montplasir and Maddie MacCannell are both coming off all-state seasons as well. Montplaisir adds another outside threat who excels at getting to the basket while MacCannell plays more with her back to the basket and controls the inside of the paint. 

 “Those are two hugely important pieces for us,” said Hopley. “Margaret is someone who can guard 1-4 for us and drew a lot of tough assignments last year. Maddie plays back to the basket but can face up when we need her to. Those two are going to be big once again.” 

 Mackenzie Lombardi is coming off a postseason where she led the team in scoring at 19 points per game and stepped up when the lights shined brightest. 

 “Mackenzie might be the best pure jump shooter in the state,” said Hopley. “Mack’s explosion is second to none for our team.” 

 Her emergence couldn’t have happened at a better time last season, and now enters the year confident and ready to contribute throughout the regular season.

 “Those four are cornerstone pieces,” said Hopley. “They all have a way of attacking a game that compliments each other well.” 

 Junior Syd Pettis is a player stepping into a bigger role this year. “There are huge improvements from where she was at the end of last season to now,” said Hopley. “She has become more consistent with her shot and has a knack for getting to the rim. She is a smart and conscientious player, but we want her to play a little more on the edge.”

 Bridget Emery is another who is playing with more confidence, something the Clippers need as they fill out the rotation. 

 “The biggest thing for us is we are searching our way through finding depth,” said Hopley. “There have been a host of players that have stepped up.” 

 The Clippers were a possession away from making a trip to the state championship. That loss to Bedford last year is certainly pushing this group.

 “The loss in the semis is motivating,” said Hopley. “A lot of things go into who dances the final dance. We hope by the time that rolls around we will be playing our best. Hopefully, we can take that next step.” 

 Pinkerton is right back in the mix of contenders after falling short in the quarterfinals a season ago. 

 “For us, it was a disappointment because we should have been better,” said head coach Lani Buskey. “But a little bit of failure is important for growth. It gave us motivation to fix the airs of our ways.”

 The Astros return an experienced core that is ready to take the next step. “They are different in a sense of the maturity they gained over the summer and fall,” said Buskey. “Our heart is the same, but we look a little more physical.”

 Liz Lavoie has all of the tools at her disposal to lead this team to the big stage. “I always trust Liz’s offense,” said Buskey. “What we need this year is a little bit more from her on the defensive end.” 

 The all-state forward may be the toughest player in the state to stop from getting downhill. Her touch around the basket is second to none and the ability to barge through defenders and finish through contact has come along big time. 

 If that strength and physicality can be transferred to the defensive side of the ball that would be a huge plus for the Astros. 

 “She will be charged with important matchups,” said Buskey. “I think she will be more multifaceted this year.” 

 Junior floor general Syd Gerossie battled with injuries in her sophomore season and now returns as healthy as can be. 

 “A happy Syd is a dangerous Syd,” said Buskey. “When she is having fun that is huge. She seems confident going into this season.” 

 Gerossie can dissect opposing defenses and is one of the better playmakers in the division. The outside shot continues to look strong and defensively she is taking more of a role on that end. 

 “We are seeing leadership out of her,” said Buskey. “We are linked up right now. That is what you need with a coach and a point guard.” 

 Losing Alex White to injury last season derailed what the Astros could do on both ends of the floor. With the senior forward back in the lineup, that makes Pinkerton even more of a dangerous threat. 

 “When she was gone you felt that gap,” said Buskey. “We didn’t have anyone able to step into that kind of role. Alex brings that aggressiveness and physicality on defense. She is a dirt dog willing to rebound.” 

 White can get you six to eight points a night while also doing a little bit of everything on the court. She is the glue that can keep this group together. 

 White’s absence did allow a player like Brooke Benz to step into her own as a freshman last season.

 “The discipline with her physicality is so impressive,” said Buskey. “She learned so much. With Alex back, that is the dynamic two-way punch you need on defense.”

 6’1”  center Kaylee Dupuis adds even more size to this frontcourt and is coming off a season where she was the third-leading scorer on the team at 7.5 points per game. 

 “She was still figuring out the system as a sophomore and now she enters the year very confident,” said Buskey. “She is in a good place this year. She has a good inside presence but also can step out and hit threes and play on the wing.”

 Emily Leonard moves to the bench as the sixth man but will still play a significant role for this group. 

 “We are working on a system of six starters,” said Buskey. “She does anything I ask of her. She is a dirt dog on defense and can hit open shots.” 

 Hayden Leccesse and Devin Lebrun will contribute off the bench as well while freshman Taya Brown is someone with potential and speed, and could be an X-factor down the line for the Astros. 

 “The goal I am hoping we stick to is the idea of a disciplined and defensive mindset,” said Buskey. “If we want the ultimate goal it is going to come from our work on the defensive end. Everyone is buying into that.” 

 The Londonderry Lancers want to solidify themselves as a true contender this season. This is a team that is still relatively young but also ready to win now. 

 “We know we haven’t proven anything yet,” said head coach Jon Doherty. “We have to take care of business.”

 Sammie Sullivan shined as a freshman and returned as one of the top players in the state in year two. 

 “This year is a bit different because she has pieces around her,” said Doherty. “She doesn't need to put the team on her back. The game can come to her.” 

 Sullivan’s offensive arsenal was on full display, being an efficient scorer from all three levels. Playmaking may be an area she improves in as the season progresses and the team continues to gel.

 Sullivan has the keys to the car and is ready to lead this team to new heights. “We want her to be a vocal leader,” said Doherty. “She is someone who leads by example. She loves to see her teammates succeed. It helps when your best player is also one of your best glue pieces.” 

 Kate Sloper returns to the lineup healthy and ready to get back in the mix of things for the Lancers. 

 “She is back to the normal Sloper,” said Doherty. “She is someone that can take the best offensive player out of the game. She will make a huge difference for us.”

 Sophomore Brooke Eacrett could take the biggest jump out of anyone on the roster. “She has improved astronomically,” said Doherty.

 Eacrett had moments as a freshman and started to turn a corner at the end of last season. Eacrett is another offensive threat that can hurt you from anywhere. The poise she has coming into this season could be a difference-maker for the Lancers. 

 Freshman point guard Gemma Murray could be an impact player from the jump. “I think she is someone that is going to surprise a lot of people,” said Doherty. 

 Murray has shown the ability to run a varsity offense and can break loose from deep and attack the basket when called upon. The instincts and confidence are already starting to shine through.

 Reagan Anderson has x-factor potential and will have her hands all over the success of this team. 

 “She may not show up on the stat sheet, but she can’t come out of the game based on her energy alone,” said Doherty. “Reagan is going to give you multiple possessions. Pound for pound she might be the hardest-working player in this division. She leads by example and has a nose for the ball.” 

 Mia Giampa is someone who can change the game with her shooting and Talia Iorio is starting to step into her own. “They are both stepping up big time,” said Doherty.

 This team still lacks a bit of experience just based on their age, but they are a group that won’t shy away from the moment. 

 “Everyone has the same goal,” said Doherty. “I cannot say enough about the comradery of this group. It makes for a unified front. They will be ready for the challenge.”

After a Final Four appearance, the Goffstown Grizzlies are in search of a new identity. 

 “We are retooling,” said head coach Steve Largy. “I like how we are going about it. We knew we would be replacing a lot of top pieces.” 

 Ava Winterburn (26.1 ppg) and Ava Ruggerio (7.2 ppg) leave a big hole to fill on both ends of the floor. “We can’t replace those points player for player,” said Largy. “We will need to do it with team play.”

 Despite that, the returning players do have experience. “I like the way we are composed,” said Largy. “The experience we have has gone deep into the playoffs before. We are balanced in that sense.” 

 Height will be an addition to this group that they have not had the luxury of the last few years. “That is something we aren’t accustomed to much at Goffstown,” said Largy. “We have always been a guard and perimeter-oriented team. The system doesn’t change, but adapts to the players we have.” 

 Maggie Sasso is the key component that returns to lead the Grizzlies this season. The all-state guard will be the focal point of the offense. 

 “She has to be aggressive on that end,” said Largy. “She has always been a playmaker for us, being on the ball and setting people up. This year she needs to have the mindset of taking her shot when she has it.” 

 The flashes have been there but now will need to show on a nightly basis. Sasso can hurt you from all areas on the court and will need to be in the range of double-digit shot attempts. 

 “She is the type of player that can take over a game,” said Largy. “She came in as a freshman and stepped into a big role. Now the role gets bigger, especially from a leadership standpoint.” 

 Penny Annis will be a captain as a senior. “We are hoping for a lot from her,” said Largy. The all-state high jumper will now get a chance at a bigger role after getting spot starts from time to time last season. 

 Ella Malouin returns to the court after taking last season off. “It is exciting to get her back,” said Largy. “She is another two-way player who can influence the game a lot with putbacks and with shot blocking.” 

 Annis and Malouin will be a tough frontcourt to deal with and give the Grizzlies a new wrinkle to an already successful system. 

 Meredith Winterburn will step into more of a primary role this season. “We expect her to step up,” said Largy. “She will need to be that secondary ball handler and do the dirty work.”

 Abaigeal Estano will provide outside shooting while Keeleigh Capps and Morghan Dodge will provide strong backcourt depth. 

 Freshman Reese Still is another athletic big that could be in the rotation mix. “She will have to have an impact on the rebounding side of things,” said Largy. 

 Offensively the approach will change for this upcoming season. “We have to fight for second and third possessions,” said Largy. “With both Ava’s last year, we could get away with first-shot looks because they were good shots. The emphasis has been on generating more possessions.” 

 This is still a playoff-level team with the core that returns, and they understand the work it will take to make another run. 

 “The key for us will be balance,” said Largy. “All five on the floor will have to be rebounding and generating turnovers. The trajectory of this team will be better at the end of the season than it is right now.”

 Bishop Guertin, one of the most dominant programs in state history, will have a new look both with the makeup of the roster and on the sidelines with Olivia Orlando taking the program over after Brad Kreick called it a career this past spring.

 “They are such a delight to work with,” said Orlando. “Being in the gym with them is the highlight of my day.” 

 The core of Brooke Paquette, Meghan Stack, Olivia Murray, and Catelyn Wheeler graduate after capturing two consecutive state titles. Hannah Lynch and Brooke Muller have both gone the prep route, leaving the Cardinals with many new faces.

 Senior Michaella Bowen will be turned to as a calming presence. “She is one of our most consistent and reliable leaders,” said Orlando. “You need that when you have a young team.” 

 Junior transfer Ayla Regan had a strong showing at Salem the last two years, and now could be a focal point of the Cardinal offense. 

 “She has done a nice job showcasing her skills and navigating a leadership role,” said Orlando. “She is trying to establish who she has not just with the team but at the school as well. I have been super impressed with her.” 

 The sharpshooter will be a reliable option along with the likes of Holly Dufoe, Madi Long, Thalia Drapeau, and Bella Fayad, who all have had their fair share of moments throughout the preseason. 

 “There have been different players stepping up at different times,” said Orlando. “It has been nice to see the balance of this group. They have genuine excitement for one another.”

 It will be a fresh start for a program that has essentially been a shoo-in to be in the title game over the last decade.

 “We want to build a team culture,” said Orlando. “Having them drive and dictate the team goals has been my biggest emphasis. Are you embodying those goals? That is the expectation we have every day.” 

 The Cardinals are a team that should still be in the mix come playoff time, but they know the path will be different than in years past.

 “I am excited for them to establish their own identity,” said Orlando. “There are big shoes to fill, but we don’t want that to be seen as pressure. I want them to embrace that challenge and rise to the occasion. This group wants to make history of their own.” 

  Dover graduated a heart and soul type senior class but returns a strong nucleus that should have the Green Wave back in playoff contention. 

 “The girls have bought in,” said head coach Jimmy Flynn. “They are letting me coach them and continue to be ultra-competitive.” 

 Junior all-state center Lily Nossiff put the division on notice last year, posting 18.3 points per game and double-digit rebounds. 

 “She has put a lot of reps into her jumper and overall game,” said Flynn. “We want Lily to be Lily.” 

 Nossiff presents an inside presence with a strong back-to-the-basket game, but the range continues to extend toward the perimeter. 

 “She wants to perfect the fundamentals,” said Flynn. “You don’t average 18 points a game by not putting work in. She continues to develop as a player.” 

 A strong senior class returns with Tory Vitko, Payton Denning, and Megan Healy all bringing unique skill sets to the floor.

 Vitko is known for her play on the volleyball court, but her impact on the basketball program has been felt over the last four years. 

 “She is going to compete, she is a winner,” said Flynn. “If she needs to set up girls to get easy buckets we know she can do that. If she needs to hit shots and get stops we know we can get that out of her.” 

 The senior forward is the complete package and will be an integral part of the Green Wave’s success this season. 

 “She plays the game the right way,” said Flynn. “She will do whatever it takes to win, and we will need that this season.” 

 Denning and Healy bring a tenacity to the defensive side of the ball. “They bring a lot to the table,” said Flynn. “They understand what we want to accomplish on defense. They also move the ball well and are strong with it. They want to compete on a nightly basis” 

 Olivia Rutland has come into this season a different player. “She is tough,” said Flynn. “She put a lot of time in over the summer and fall working on her game.” 

 Leah Peck and freshman Avery Littlefield should be in the mix for key roles to help fill out the rest of the rotation.

 This group overall is determined to improve on their 10-8 finish from a year ago. “They all play for each other,” said Flynn. “We are going into every game knowing it comes down to the details. It will be about how focused we are and how well we play together.”

  Windham returns a solid athletic roster and an impactful junior class that is ready to continue their winning ways. 

 “There is some basketball awareness with this group,” said head coach Cassie Turcotte. 

 Meghan Husson was the second-leading scorer for the Jaguars last season and now will lead the team at the point guard position. 

 “She is stepping into more of a leadership role,” said Turcotte. “She will help determine our offense and guide us on that end.” 

 Senior Paige Carboni will help control the boards and play a vital role down low while her sister Kate Carboni will play a similar role as a junior down low. 

 “Kate really learned a lot from being the goalie on the soccer team this year,” said Turcotte. “She has those go-go gadget arms and suction cup hands. We have her at the front of our press and those skills help a lot. Her hand-eye coordination has improved as well.” 

 Lilah Boucher will start at the forward spot and Sarah Guarnaccia will play a super-utility role on the wing and the post.

 Avery Steffanides is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury but should see significant time at the two-guard spot when she returns. 

 “This group has played together long enough that they should have more cohesion on the floor,” said Turcotte. “We will give any opponent a good look on any given night.” 

 The athleticism this group possesses will be their greatest strength. This is a group that hosted a home playoff game last season, and they feel that is something obtainable once again this year.

 “We are anticipating being in the top mix,” said Turcotte. “We are athletic enough. The question will be what kind of energy are we coming in with to start the season? That is what we are focused on now.” 

  After a quarterfinal appearance, the Concord Crimson Tide are hoping they can have the same kind of success this season. 

 “This is a group that is still gelling,” said head coach Rob Darrell. Injuries and low numbers have not been too kind to this team early on. 

 Leading scorer Aidah Smalley is recovering from knee surgery, but the hope is she can return before the holiday break. 

 The seniors make up a good majority of the rotation. “I have had this group since they were in seventh grade,” said Darrell. “They are an extension of me out there. They know this is their last run. They have to step up.”

 Delaney Duford has been a staple of the Crimson Tide program for the last three years. As a senior this year the combo guard will be looking to give this team a chance every night out with her strong two-way play. 

 “She is another coach on the court,” said Darrell. Duford can hound opposing offenses with her strong footwork and defensive ability while offensively her game has expanded, with the addition of a pull-up jumper and ability to attack the rim. 

 Whitney Vaillant led Concord on the soccer field and will do the same on the hardwood as a captain alongside Duford. 

 “She stepped up for us last year,” said Darrell. “I expect more of the same out of her this season.” 

 Vaillant has come into her own on the offensive end, and defensively her size and length can affect players both on the perimeter and in the paint. 

 Sophia Payne will provide reliable size on both ends of the court. “She has become a much better finisher,” said Darrell. “She has great post moves. This year will be about improving her decision-making.” 

 Jillian Nailor and Makayla Root will get the chance to have big roles this winter while freshman Abby Lash can handle some of the ball-handling responsibilities. 

 “She is young and timid but she has a lot of potential,” said Darrell. “She will learn to handle pressure over time.” 

 Last season this team didn’t find their stride until midway through the regular season, and that could be the case again this season. 

 “We know we have a lot to work on and that will take time,” said Darrell. “I think by playoff time we will be alright. I am excited for this group.” 

 Manchester Memorial is a “work in progress” according to head coach Greg Cotreau as the Crusaders look to shape a new identity. 

 “We have to hang our hat on the defensive end,” said Cotreau. “That couldn’t be more true this season.” 

 A strong group of athletes make up the Crusader roster, headlined by forward NyAsia McKelvey, who is one of the top rebounders in the division. 

 “She did a great job offensive rebounding and getting putbacks last year,” said Cotreau. “She made herself available for dump downs. Now we will need a bit more from her on that end.” 

 Her touch has improved around the basket and on the perimeter as well, making her more of a threat offensively. 

 “She can comfortably hit 15-18 foot jump shots now,” said Cotreau. “People will also be surprised with how much work she has put into her ball handling. She can rebound and push it herself.” 

 McKelvey will be a primary option along with fellow captains Torle Adumene and Payton Moran.

 “Torle has made a big jump,” said Cotreau. “Offensively she will have to score more. We need her and NyAsia in double figures to stay in games.” 

 Adumene can impact both ends with her ability to guard the best opposing player out of games and is someone who can both post up and hit shots from the perimeter. 

 Moran will be thrust into the lead guard role. “She has someone who has run the point for us before so she has the experience,” said Cotreau. “She can pick up right where she left off with that. Her decision-making has gotten much better.” 

 Jocelyn Eosue was a sharpshooter off the bench last season and now steps into a bigger role along with senior Marlaina Schmitt.

 Freshman Avery Jenkins is someone who could see a few starts throughout the year. “She is someone who can shoot the three and also beat you off the dribble. “The biggest adjustment for her will be defensively.” 

 Jenavyzia Collazo is another freshman who could be a part of the rotation early on. “She is a one-person press at times,” said Cotreau. “She can create havoc with her speed.”

 The success this team has on the offensive side of the ball could determine the outcome of their season. 

 “The question mark is where does our consistent scoring come from?” said Cotreau. “Finding consistency on the offensive end early will be what we are working through.” 

 If those questions can be answered the Cardiac Crusaders could be a team in the mix for a home playoff game. 

 “It starts with beating the teams we are supposed to,” said Cotreau. “We have the pieces to do that. We aren’t looking too far ahead and taking things one day at a time.”

  There is a lot of optimism around Keene this year, and rightfully so. This is a team that finished 6-12 and feels with the core they return, they have a chance to be in playoff contention. 

 “The girls are super excited,” said first-year head coach Kaitlyn Jesse. “That is all you can ask for to start a season.” 

 Senior Ivy Keating will be a leader for the Blackbirds. “Her positivity is contagious,” said Jesse. “She is making sure everyone understands that if they buy in we will have a successful year.” 

 Keating will be vocal on both ends, and her calming presence allows this group to slow the pace when needed.

 Sophomore Harper Zlaski had great strides in year one, seeing a lot of starts towards the end of the season. 

 That momentum has carried over into this year, as she has been named a captain and is looked to as a focal point. 

 “Her size and ability to push when needed is big for us,” said Jesse. “She can handle the ball but has that inside presence to play inside but she can also stretch the floor and hit the three as well.”

 Zlaski can put up double digits on a nightly basis and will be looked at to produce on a nightly basis. “We look at her as someone who can give us offensive momentum,” said Jesse.

 Fellow sophomore McKenna Nelson will be a full-time varsity player this year and could be a big contributor. 

 “She makes it tough for players to guard her since she is so strong getting to the basket,” said Jesse. “She can shoot it and also play back to the basket.” 

 Ella Scaggs is the energizer bunny for the Blackbirds. “The kid is a dog,” said Jesse. “She will run through a brick wall for any of her teammates. She does the little things. She will also help even out our playmakers.” 

 Playing freely is something Jesse has emphasized early and often. “Positionless basketball is what we are going for,” said Jesse. “I like everyone to have confidence inside and out. They get the green light from me until things need to be reeled in.” 

 The pieces are there for this program to take a step forward, and that belief is felt throughout the roster from top to bottom. 

 “Keene hasn’t made the playoffs in quite some time and hasn’t won a playoff game in a decade,” said Jesse. “That is something we want to change. Our goal is to shock the division.”

  Salem returns a young nucleus that hopes to improve on their 8-10 finish from a season ago. “There is a lot of learning we need to get done,” said head coach Ricky Oliver. 

 With Charlotte Hinchey going the prep route and Ayla Regan going to BG, the Blue Devils will turn to returning starters Lindsay Goetz, Lillian George, and Gabriella Mosto. “We need consistent scoring and leadership from them,” said Oliver.

 With a fairly new roster comes a new system, as Salem wants to adapt to the talent they return. 

 “We want to play just as fast as anyone wants to play,” said Oliver. “Most importantly we are going to compete, that is all I know how to do.” 

 The Blue Devils always seem to sneak up on teams and take games you may have thought they were the underdog in. 

 That is what pushed them to playoff contention a season ago, and that is exactly what they hope to do again this year. 

 “We will be the dark horse,” said Oliver. “We will have to claw and fight, we know that going in. If we can win the games that are there for us to take we can make some noise.”

 The Alvirne Broncos will field a new-look group after graduating four starters from last year’s 8-10 squad. 

 “We have flipped the script,” said head coach Frank Girginis. “We are back to being those Baby Broncos.” 

 Last year’s team featured a lot of guard play, as did most of the last three years as this was a team that lacked true height. 

 “This group is long,” said Girginis. “They play with a lot of tenacity. Their length changes the way we play, and I think it can take us a bit further.” 

 Junior Ella Hartson is the lone returning starter and will be asked to be both a leader and primary option. 

 “We need her to step up in a lot more ways,” said Girginis. “Double-digit scoring, hustle plays, we need her to be everywhere.” 

 The Broncos have been a playoff team the last few seasons, but this program has had their ups and downs along the way. 

 “We can’t have hiccups this year,” said Girginis. “Can you compete for a certain amount of stretches? That is the question we have in front of us when playing the top dogs. We need to take care of the teams we are supposed to.” 

 Things will take time to take shape, but you can already start to see this group developing an identity in practice. 

 “I think this team might surprise people,” said Girginis. “Don’t judge a book by its cover. Hopefully, we can make some noise this year.”

 Kaylene Rogers takes over at Exeter as the Blue Hawks will have a complete overhaul of the whole program. 

 “It has been a smooth transition,” said Rogers. “I am confident that we are building not only a good foundation for this year but also for future years.” 

 Emma Smith was a vital piece to how this team operated the last few seasons. With her graduating and Ali Campbell heading to prep school, there will be several players in new roles this season. 

 “It will take time to find our identity,” said Rogers. “We have a lot of players who worked hard in the offseason. We will get better as the season progresses as we gel as a team.”

 Seniors Arianna Pompeo, MarLie Maeck, and Eleanor Kirkland all will have responsibilities from day one.

 Pompeo will be a threat both inside and out. “She continues to improve upon her soft touch from outside and also has height to play inside,” said Rogers. “She is the top returning rebounder and is expected to fill that role again. 

 Macek is another player who can be a force in the paint. “Her strength, grit, and rebounding tenacity will pair nicely with Ari,” said Rogers.

 Kirkland will be a tone-setter on the defensive end. “Her strength, agility, and quickness will help us on that end,” said Rogers. 

 Junior Karli Scherpf will be a two-way force for the Blue Hawks. “She is an all-around athlete that brings a lot to the team not only defensively, but also can score in a multitude of ways,” said Rogers. “She sees the floor well, plays unselfish, and makes the right decision. She is poised to have a big year for us.”

 Grace Weed will be in the guard rotation as a top defender and sophomores Anna McGuiness and Jessica Melick will both get a chance to showcase their skills. 

 “Our players have stepped up to the challenge of implementing a whole new style of play,” said Rogers. “It has been impressive how quickly they are coming together as a team. We are going to work hard every game and never leave the court wishing we had given it more effort.”

  Spaulding will be another young team in Division I this year that hopes to progress towards the future but also have success this season with the playoffs in mind. 

 “Right now we are figuring out roles and putting people where they need to be,” said head coach Scott Blake. “From shooters, defensive specialists, rebounders, we are figuring it all out.”

 The Red Raiders graduated nearly 85 percent of their offense from a season ago, so finding consistency on that end is a primary focus. 

 Gabby Couture and Kate McCawley are two players who could step into bigger roles. Both came off the bench last season but provided good inside presence with their size and finishing ability. 

 “They are leaders and know what I am looking for,” said Blake. “They could both be in for big years.” 

 Megan Uraskevich saw starting time as a freshman and could be in line for a real jump in year two. 

 “She always seemed to hit the big three for us when we needed it,” said Blake. “She has a knack for making the big plays. This year she will need to carry the load and be pretty solid all around.” 

 Ellie Averill returns as the team’s best shooter from deep. “If she is open we are hoping she pulls the trigger,” said Blake. 

 There may be an adjustment period for this team, but the potential is there if they can put things together. 

 “I think we are athletic enough to match up with other teams,” said Blake. “We are still feeling ourselves out a bit, but we are building up to what we think we can be. We are going into it with the mindset of a playoff team because that is what we think we are.” 

 Trinity returns just one junior and the rest of the roster is made up of underclassmen. “It will be a growing process,” said head coach Kevin Fraser. “Every game will be about getting better and better.” 

 Jodi Erilla comes in as a freshman and will get the keys to the offense as the point guard while classmates Summer Cullen and Sadie Mungere both could play key roles right away. 

 The pieces are there to make a push towards the postseason. “It will be about seeing who we are on a game-to-game basis,” said Fraser. “It is not a guarantee with a young team, but with the talent we have, if it plays out right we could make the playoffs. We have high hopes for the future.”

 After graduating five seniors, Nashua North hoped to turn things over to rising junior Aiden Walker. Right before the season kicked off Walker found out she would be out for the year with an injury. 

 “That wasn’t the best news to start the year off with,” said head coach Curt Dutilley. “To lose Aiden who was going to be a junior and lead the young crew and provide that stability and experience is a tough pill to swallow.” 

 Nonetheless, this team will turn the page and try to tackle this season head-on. “It will be a maturing process for this crew,” said Dutilley. “We will be stronger for it in the long run.” 

 While this group is undersized, they hope to make up for that with good outside shooting, passing, and effort. 

 Freshman Lillian Small could be a candidate that has an impact in that department. “She brings all facets of the game to the table,” said Dutilley. “She can handle, shoot and rebound. She is an intelligent player. The calmness she has for her age on the court is incredible.”

 Small will have ups and downs as any freshman does, but she will be looked to as a go-to scorer along with sophomore Angie King. 

 “She comes in with a year of experience under her belt,” said Dutilley. “She was a good option on kickouts from Aiden last year but now she will have to create her own shot.” 

 Sophomore Jordan Cottier transferred back to North this year and is currently ramping up from a nagging injury.

 “When she is healthy she will have a major impact on the game,” said Dutilley. “She is knowledgeable about the game. She has a good interior game and can rebound well which will be big.”

 There will be a learning curve for this team, but this year of experience will help for the bright future of this team. 

 “Everyone knows they are working towards a longer-term goal,” said Dutilley. “It is more about the process. Are we getting better? The closer we can keep this group the more confidence we can build.” 

 It will be a new-look Merrimack Tomahawk team taking the floor this season with a young core leading the charge. 

 Leading scorer Maddie McCaffery is off to Tilton and Lexi Best is focusing on track and field this winter. 

 “There is some inexperience with this group,” said head coach Bryan Duggan. “The fun part will be seeing how much these girls progress. Day by day you can see the small improvements they are making.”

 The lone returning starter is Gianna Maglio who will be leaned upon for her experience. The 6’0 forward brings a good defensive presence to the lineup but is being asked more of on the offensive end this season. 

 “We need to get her the ball in scoring spots,” said Duggan. “I am happy with how she has improved on that end.” 

 It will be more of a point guard-by-committee approach after losing the starting backcourt from a season ago. 

 Senior Mia Getchell could be a player who steps into that mix after taking last season off. “She has a high IQ and can pass the ball well,” said Duggan. “She is not typically a guard, but is someone who can help us handle pressure.”

 Julia Hoag is another player who can be molded into a point guard and run the offense.

 “It is going to be tough for us some nights but I am hoping we can stay positive,” said Duggan. “There are a lot of games we can scrap in and try and come away with wins in.” 

 Winnacunnet will once again be young and building towards the future. “It is pretty much all new faces,” said head coach Andrew Marden. “It will be a bit of a transition year for us.” 

 Sophomore Ariyah Bennett headlines a strong sophomore class for the Warriors. “She is really coming into her own,” said Marden. “She spent a lot of time working on her game this summer. Her length allows her to create some shots for herself.” 

 Kaila Roy is another player who had her fair share of moments last season. “She is a good shooter and finisher in transition,” said Marden. “She has the potential to score 15 to 20 points a night. She is our best offensive weapon.” 

 The Warriors are motivated to get back into playoff contention. “They want to do well, play hard, and find success,” said Marden. “We need to find ways to compete every time out. If we grow at the rate we have been going, I think we can compete for a playoff spot.” 

 It will be another season of building a strong foundation for Nashua South. “This is about building for years to come,” said head coach John Bourgeois. “This group has a competitive nature which I am excited about.” 

 Underclassmen make up a good chunk of the roster, so the few upperclassmen the Purple Panthers have will be relied upon heavily. 

 Morgan Gillis, Karina O’Donnell, and Maren Lowell will be turned to as leaders for this group. “They have the most varsity minutes of anyone on the roster,” said Bourgeois. “They are the hardest workers in the program. They have good IQ and lead by example.” 

 They will be tasked with getting this young group into the swing of things and getting everyone up to speed. 

 “I think they want to work hard and be good,” said Bourgeois. “It will take some patience.” 

 Defensively, this group hopes to create opportunities. “That will give us an edge this year,” said Bourgeois. “We are undersized so we need to rely on that end of the floor.” 

 The Purple Panthers will take things day by day and focus on the small improvements. Wins and losses will not define the success of their season. 

 “We are building from the ground up,” said Bourgeois. “It is a process worth doing with this group.”

  Manchester Central and West will combine into one team this year to make up Manchester Central-West. 

 “The biggest positive is we are giving more girls an opportunity to play,” said head coach Mike Wenners.

 This will be a young group that will take things on a game-by-game basis. “Our biggest goal is to get the team to come together and play as one,” said Wenners. “The girls seem to be buying in.” 

 Sophomore Tianna Mann will be turned to as a leader. “She has the most varsity sports experience out of anyone and has contributed at a varsity level consistently.” 

 Seniors Lydia Mann, Ajaelah Poulin, and Cianna Lukegord will be big compliments to the roster and help contribute to the overall success of the program. 

 “We want to compete and give them as good a senior experience as possible,” said Wenners. “It will come down to working hard and playing tough.” 

 As always, Wenners will want this group to hang their hat on the defensive end to stay in contests. 

 “We have to turn games into rock fights,” said Wenners. “The hope is to hang in games and maybe steal a few we aren’t supposed to win.”

 

Pre-Season First Team All-State

Lana McCarthy of Bedford

Elizabeth Lavoie of Pinkerton

Avery Romps of Portsmouth

Kate Allard of Bedford

Sammie Sullivan of Londonderry

 

Pre-Season Second Team All-State

Lilly Nossif of Dover

Syd Gerossie of Pinkerton

Margaret Montplaisir of Portsmouth

Maggie Sasso of Goffstown

Maddie MacCannel of Portsmouth

 

With apologies to: Delaney Duford of Concord, Sarah Muir and Lyla Stein of Bedford, Mackenzie Lombardi of Portsmouth, Ayla Regan of Bishop Guertin, NyAsia McKelvey of Manchester Memorial, Brooke Benz and Kaylee Dupuis of Pinkerton, Gabriella Mosto of Salem, Harper Zalaski of Keene, Meghan Husson of Windham, Kate Sloper of Londonderry, and Tori Vitko of Dover