“We’re a quick team that likes to push the ball,” Rios said. “These girls like to get out and run. But we can also run a set and get the ball inside. We have four solid post players that can score and rebound.

“Filling the scoring gap that Riley and Grace left will be the challenge,” Rios added. “Can we be consistent scoring? That’s a question mark for us right now. I believe we can, especially if we get the ball inside. The more we get the ball inside to the post, the more successful we will be.”

And holding the opponent to 40 points or less.

“That’s our goal,” Rios admitted. “We’re a defensive-minded team. If we can hold other teams under 40, plus keep control of the basketball and not turn the ball over, we’re going to be in good shape.”

Leading the group of returners is senior Lucy Fearday. She averaged a double-double a year ago – 17 points and 10 rebounds – plus she was a first-team all-conference selection and was honorable mention all-state.

“She’s one of the best players in school history,” Rios said. “She is consistent in practice, in the locker room and on the bus. She’s just a great part of our team.”

The other projected starters are senior Anna Faber; juniors Stacie Vonderheide and Maddie Kibler; and sophomore Addison Rios.

Faber was a starter most of the year and averaged 5 points a game. Rios believes she is ready for a breakout season.

Vonderheide is considered the “defensive stopper.”

“She’s our point guard and will probably lead us in steals,” Rios noted. “Stacie does things with the basketball a lot of kids can’t do.”

Like Vonderheide, Kibler came off the bench a year ago and proved to be a strong rebounder and defender.

“She also has a unique ability to score inside,” Rios said. “She knows how to finish.”

Rios saw limited action last season, but will add quickness and strong defense for the team.

Sophomores Addie Nuxoll and Kallie Kabbes, and freshman Nancy Ruholl figure to be the top reserves this season.

Nuxoll is a 5’10” agile post player. She missed most of last year due to a knee injury. Rios said she could be an impact player this season.

Kabbes is a smart player who Rios said “does the small things and is always in the right spot at the right time.”

Rios is also very high on Ruholl.

“She’s an unbelievable basketball player that’s just going to continue to get better,” he said.

The St. Anthony coach has picked Neoga as the favorite to win the conference, but thinks Altamont and Cowden-Herrick/Beecher City “will be right there. And I think we’ll be competitive, too.”

Pana and Tuscola have been added to this year’s schedule.

“The expectations are high as to what we believe we can accomplish,” Rios said. “We’ve got a good group and we’ve set the bar high.”