Other Leagues boys' preview

Holy Ghost Prep lacks experience and inside height, but the Firebirds still are expected to vie for top honors in the Bicentennial Athletic League Independence Division.

With the departure of go-to scorer Tyler Juchno, Holy Ghost will count on senior guard Tim Lazorko, junior guard Jack Kalmes, senior forwards Jeff Ainsley and Chris Morano, and 6-foot-4 senior center Tom Heston.

Longtime Firebirds coach Tony Chapman is 708-247 in 33 seasons.

Devon Prep returns four senior starters: 6-3 forward Kyle Koehler (11.7 ppg.), 6-1 forward Stephen Kohlbrenner (11.1 ppg.), guard Matthew Burke (4.1 steals per game), and 6-2 forward Nick Weis.

Phil-Mont Christian is out to defend its Bicen Constitution Division championship. The Falcons are sparked by senior guard Mike Hutson (16 ppg.), 6-0 senior forward Clayton Cooper, and sophomore guards Zach Dalton and Micah Baldez.

Plumstead Christian was hit hard by graduation. Max Drake, a junior guard who averaged 16 points last season, and 6-4 senior forward Dan Coach lead the young Panthers.

The Bicen has three new coaches: Frank Sciolla, Bristol; Wes Emme, Jenkintown; and Seth Baron, Lower Moreland. Girard College is no longer part of the league.

In the Tri-County League, Phelps School looks to defend its crown. The Lions, under new coach C.J. Hunt, are led by senior guard Zach Hagan (5.6 ppg., 3.1 apg.), junior swingmen Ryan Alfred and Shakiel Humphrey, and 6-1 junior forward Will Watts.

Phil Thompson, a 6-0 junior guard, also is expected to pitch in for Phelps.

- Rick O'Brien