It's hard to imagine Catonsville High School's girls basketball team could be better after the Comets went 22-4 last season before losing in the regional finals, but that might be the case.
They return eight veterans, including starters Renee Gast (5-foot-9 senior foward), Lauren McDonald (5-8 senior guard) and junior Andrea McTaggart (5-8 junior guard).
Joining the veterans are three freshmen who should have defenders taking notice as they get familiar with the offense. They include forwards Stashia Daniels (6-2) and Jasmine Dickey (5-10) and guard Jemelia Barrett (5-9).
"For the new kids, it's like the wave hitting them because we throw a lot at them early, so it's a huge adjustment for them, but they are going to be great players," Catonsville coach Mike Mohler said. "The young kids are true basketball players."
Daniels, returning varsity sophomore Jen Gast (6-2) and senior veteran Maja Wichhart (5-10) and junior Destiny Bennett (5-10) give Mohler more size up front than he has had in the past.
"We have the ability to go somewhat smaller and quicker and we have the ability to go really big," Mohler said. "It depends on what we need at the time."
The Comets have depth in the backcourt where juniors Belle Douglas (5-7), Tiarra Horne (5-7) and sophomore Kayla Wood (5-7) can help out.
"Our next four years, I'm extremely excited about, but I'm also even more excited about this year because I think our depth is our strength," Mohler said. "We've probably got six or seven girls who have to learn multiple positions."
The coaches biggest concern is getting the younger players used to his system.
"We are certainly looking for a real positive year," Mohler said. "It's just working everybody in to where they fit best. It may take a little time. I think we will be a lot better in January than we are right now."
The early-season schedule doesn't do the Comets any favors, including a pre-season playday where they faced teams from Urbana, Roland Park, McDonogh, St. Frances and Severn.
"I was pleased because we were able to hold our own," Mohler said.
Catonsville opened the season on Dec. 8 with a 61-48 loss at Archbishop Spalding.
The Comets have the home opener on Dec. 11 against Broadneck (6:30 p.m.).
They will also host Severna Park on Dec 17 (6:30 p.m.) and Seton Keough on Dec. 20 (3:45 p.m.) and play in Salisbury in a Christmas tournament against River Hill on Dec. 29, and either Walkersville or Mardela the following day.