MaxPreps 2013-14 Vermont preseason boys basketball Fab 5

Click here to see the boys basketball preseason Fab 5 from every state

1. St. Johnsbury Academy
2012-13 finish: 23-1 (Division 1 runnerup)
Head coach: Tom O’Shea

Last year’s Division 1 runnerup are expected to contend for the title this year with four out of the team’s five starters returning, including point guard Brenden O'Shea, the coach’s son who played phenomenally down the stretch for the Hilltoppers, and 6-7 center Vlad Cobzaru.

2. Rice Memorial (South Burlington)
2012-13 finish: 20-4 (Division 1 state champions)
Head coach: Paul Pecor

The defending state champions will have to do without Casey Tipson and Marcus Willingham, but should be in good hands with the return of junior James Wells and point guard Tom Fitzgerald. This is a program that had entrants in four of the last five state title games and will likely do so again.

3. Mt. Mansfield (Jericho)
2012-13 finish: 13-7
Head coach: Jeff Davis

The Cougars have nine returning players from last year’s Division 1 playoff team, including 6-6 forward/center Sam Kitsos, guard Alex Eschholz, guard Tinga Adiang, guard Nick Bergeron, and guard Sean Springer.

4. Rutland
2012-13 finish: 12-6 (Division 1 semifinals)
Head coach: Mike Wood

The Raiders won’t have Tre Hysell to depend upon after leading the team in scoring the past two seasons. He’ll be replaced by committee, including guard Wyatt Socinski.

5. Williamstown
2012-13 finish:  23-0 (Division 3 state champions)
Head coach: Jack Carrier

The defending Division 3 state champions lost four players to graduation, including two starters. But with Jason Manwaring (22.0 points per game) returning for his senior year, and senior Devin Duff (14.2 points per game) as well as junior Hunter Mclaughlin (13.8 points per game) back as well, this team is primed for another state title.