The poll: Girls basketball

1. SETON KEOUGH

Last season: 22-7, ranked No. 3

With five starters back, a solid bench and four talented freshmen, the Gators have all it takes to reach the top in the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland A Conference.

2. ST. FRANCES

Last season: 25-6, No. 1

Graduation nearly depleted the starting ranks of the IAAM A Conference champs, but a couple of exchange students from Africa -- one 6 feet 2 --should help fill the void.

3. WESTERN

Last season: 23-5, No. 5

State Class 3A finalists a year ago, the Doves added new talent to make up for their graduation losses and remain favored to repeat as Baltimore City champs.

4. ARUNDEL

Last season: 21-5, No. 10

The Wildcats came up short last season, falling to Old Mill in the regional final, and have a veteran lineup determined to atone for it.

5. ATHOLTON

Last season: 25-3, No. 6

The 2007 Class 2A state champions, who graduated only one starter, should remain Howard County's best and make a run at another state title.

6. MCDONOGH

Last season: 21-5, No. 2

The Eagles get a boost by the return of All-Metro point guard Becky Cox, who started practice last, coming back quickly after a torn anterior cruciate ligament in September.

7. CITY

Last season: 18-8, No. 13

Adding two key transfers to last season's starting lineup of freshmen and sophomores, the Knights should give Western a run in Baltimore City.

8. DULANEY

Last season: 20-1, No. 7

The Lions return a solid crew around versatile Danielle Parker, who should lead them to another Baltimore County title.

9. OLD MILL

Last season: 21-5, No. 9

Surprise state semifinalists last season, the young Patriots aren't big but should have the speed and guard play to compensate.

10. FALLSTON

Last season: 23-5, No. 12

With three starters back, the Cougars have the foundation to build on last year's trip to the state Class 3A semifinals.

11. SOUTH RIVER

Last season: 15-8, unranked

The Seahawks return four starters and are looking to move up in a tight Anne Arundel County race.

12. RIVER HILL

Last season: 17-7, No. 15

The Hawks should give Atholton a run in Howard County with good guard play and a promising post game.

13. SOUTHERN

Last season: 21-6, unranked

State finalists last season, the Bulldogs are adjusting to a new point guard but boast a strong inside-outside game.

14. MOUNT HEBRON

Last season: 20-4, unranked

Despite graduating four starters, the Vikings should stay in the Howard County hunt with a cohesive unit and exceptional defense.

15. ARCHBISHOP SPALDING

Last season: 15-12, unranked

The Cavaliers are young but talented and athletic, a good combination for moving up in the IAAM A Conference.

OTHERS CONSIDERED //

Aberdeen (13-7, unranked), St. Vincent Pallotti (20-5, No. 11), Severna Park (15-9, unranked), Towson Catholic (19-7, No. 4), Winters Mill (9-13, unranked), C. Milton Wright (12-9, unranked).