Head coach: Ron Bollinger, 15th season

Last year: 10-13, fourth in 4A Kingco Crown Division

2009 turnout: 36 players

TOP RETURNERS

Sr. Oliver Hurtin, guard: Smooth, athletic guard leads all returners with 8.0 points per game last season.

Sr. Mike Hartvigson, center: Bothell’s big man has a quick turnaround from the gridiron to the hardwood. At 6-foot-6 will be a much-needed inside presence against tall teams like Inglemoor.

Sr. Kyle McAllister, guard: Saw a lot of playing time last year as a junior; he’s back and ready to lead.

KEY NEWCOMER

Sr. Dominic Ballard, guard: Transfer from O’Dea and a huge pickup for the Cougars. 6-foot-3, solid frame, very quick and versatile. Was ranked as high as the sixth-best sophomore point guard in the state during the 2007-08 season.

KEY GAME

Dec. 11, 3:30 p.m., vs. Inglemoor at Bothell

Cougars get started with a tough Northshore rivalry matchup against the Vikings. Will be a true test for Bothell’s senior leaders to guide the action on the floor and communicate.

DID YOU KNOW?

Coach Bollinger graduated from Bothell in 1979 and coached Sammamish High to a surprising second-place finish in the 1995 3A state tournament before returning to his alma mater for 1995-96 season.