Valley Girls Basketball 2012-2013 Capsule

Head coach: Roger Hansen, third season

2011-12 record: 15-13 (9-5 Northeast)

Returning letter winners (starters): Six (three)

Top players: G Tyricia Payne (Sr.), G Kennedy Wharton (Jr.), G Gabby Cabanero (Jr.)

Outlook: If you're looking for a darkhorse pick to win the Northeast League, the Vikings just might be it.

Payne averaged 17.7 points, 9.6 rebounds and 5.0 steals per game last season en route to sharing league most valuable player honors.

Wharton averaged 11.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, and Cabanero scored at a 9.0-ppg clip.

Valley's guards can rebound, which certainly helps out more inexperienced post players.

"We have a good top three returning starters with support from part-time starter Zhani Thomas," Hansen said. "We should also get help from senior posts Beth Seyoum and Taylor Payne, and speedy sophomore guard Lanesha Acker.

"The team should contend for a division title with hopes of deep playoff contention."