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Methuen Boys Basketball Preview

2006-07 record: 9-12, lost in Division 1 North prelims

Returning starters (4): Romeo Diaz, 6-4, Sr., forward; Matt Merritte, 6-2, Sr., forward; Edwin Gonzalez, 5-8, Jr., guard; Matt Richardson, 6-2, Jr., guard

Returning lettermen: Roudy Marcelin, 6-2, Sr., forward; David Koerner, 6-2, Sr., guard; Sean Gallagher, 6-2, Sr., forward

Newcomers: Emanuel Carlini, 5-6, Sr., guard; Jimmy Cote, 5-10, Sr., guard; Chris Murach, 6-2, Jr., forward; Oscar Rosario, 5-9, Jr., guard; Joseph Pepin, 5-7, Jr., guard; Mike Gorman, 5-5, Frosh., guard

Candidates in all grades: 110

Captains: Romeo Diaz, Edwin Gonzalez

Returning leaders: Romeo Diaz, 16.0 ppg, 13.0 rpg.; Edwin Gonzalez, 8.3 ppg; Matt Richardson, 6.9 ppg, 25 3-pointers; Matt Merritte, 6.1 ppg; David Koerner, 4.7 ppg

Returning honorees: Romeo Diaz, Eagle-Tribune All-Star

Assistants: Jason Smith, varsity; Kevin O'Loughlin, junior varsity; Matt Curran, freshmen

Opener: Dec. 11 at St. John's Prep

Odds and ends: Methuen has qualified for the state tourney each of the last two seasons. ... The Rangers are seeking their first postseason win since reaching the 2000 Division 1 North semifinals. ... Dave Koerner, one of the top three-sporters in the region, remains on the injured list after breaking his leg in football. He has yet to practice. … Newcomer Jimmy Cote, an MVC All-Star in soccer and a .370 hitter in baseball, has played well in the preseason. ... Roudy Marcelin comes off a big spring as a hitter with the Ranger volleyballers.

Coach Rich Barden (3rd year, 22-20): "It's my third year with a lot of these guys, and I'm a fan of the group so far. Romeo remains our guy. Matt Merritte's a big guy who came a long, long way this summer. Edwin will get his share in the offense, too. Right now, two of the starting spots are still up for grabs. Watch out for the freshman, Mike Gorman. He's a light's out shooter. You're going to hear a lot about him in the future."