December 9, 2014, 11:04 PM Last updated: Tuesday, December 9, 2014, 11:04 PM

Boys basketball

No. 9 Hackensack

Last seasons record: 9-16. Final ranking: Not ranked

Best assets: Last season was an aberration for Hackensack as it sought to rebuild after its first sectional title in 20 years. These Comets are more talented and should challenge for the Big North Freedom Division title. They return two key veterans in 6-foot-6 junior F Edward Emedoh and sophomore G Ahmed Bailey. A third starter will be junior Michael Richardson, a transfer from Teaneck who is immediately eligible because of a change of address, coach Aaron Taylor said. The other two starters are freshmen: point guard Atiba Taylor and Bassel Saliba.

Biggest concerns: Did you notice the projected starting five doesnt include a senior? The Comets have several 12th-graders, including guards Prince Taylor and Christian Roberts, but a majority of minutes will go to underclassmen. Adding backcourt depth are two more returnees, junior Tommy Smith and sophomore Terrell Bonner. The Comets need to mesh quickly to contend for the Freedom title and make a run in the Bergen and state tournaments.

The rest is here:

H.S. boys basketball countdown: No. 9 Hackensack