ROYAL CITY - If Royal High ever has a chance to become a winning basketball program again, this is the year.

All but one of last year's team members return. While not exceedingly tall, the starting five will average six feet or taller.

"This coming season is one that we have been looking forward to for the past nine months," coach Pete Christensen said. "With the challenges we had finishing things last year, we are excited for this season to begin."

Coach Christensen has announced 6-1 Teddy Mead, 6-1 Riley Lefler, 6-1 Chase Christensen and 6-1 Aaron Johnson as four of the starters for Saturday's home opener against Kittitas.

Jonathan Partida, 5-11, and 6-1 Kaden Jenks are still battling for the fifth starting role. It hardly matters though. Both will likely start at times or alternate. And the regular rotation will include at least eight players.

The rest of the varsity will include Jesus Partida, Payten Stakkeland, Austin Walz and Carson Gilbert. Gilbert will see action with the junior varsity to give him added experience.

"I believe we have what it takes to have a fantastic season," coach Christensen said. "The players have worked hard throughout the summer, committing their time and energy to improving. I can see it in the way they play, shoot and understand the game."

"As a team, we definitely have those that have a higher skill set than others, but the game of basketball needs the entire team to be one if we want to have the success we are capable of having," coach Christensen added. "And this group has shown the dedication, determination and desire to move from where we were to the place that we, as a team, want to be. We are all healthy and excited for the games to begin."