With last year's rebuilding project behind him, Meadow Heights coach Tom Brown is downright excited about the 2007-08 season.

"I think we're going to be strong," he said. "When you have height, experience and guards, that's a good start with those three things."

The Panthers return three starters from last year's 9-15, including leading scorer Terry Wagner, who averaged around 20 points per game. The 6-foot-5 senior is recovering from a broken foot, while 6-6, 280-pound post player Luke Nitsch is battling a knee strain.

Those injuries are high on Brown's list of concerns.

But he also has two other returning starters -- junior guard Derrick Wilfong and senior forward Sam Russell -- along with others who saw plenty of playing time. Sophomore Dustin Hubler, who played some varsity last year, is penciled to move into the starting lineup.

Meadow Heights' Tyler Wagner grabbed a rebound away from Bell City's Clay Dover at last year's Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament. (AARON EISENHAUER ~ photos@semissourian.com)

"He's a very talented athlete," Brown said.

The Panthers have had some talent in Brown's time, including the 18-7 team of two years ago that set the national record for 3-pointers in a game with 36.

"This year, we will probably shoot more than last year," Brown said. "It's not quite like two years ago. Those kids don't come along very often.

"We're going to play with a fast pace and be competitive. I think we're going to be in some high-scoring affairs. I'm really looking forward to it."

Meadow Heights, the third seed behind Saxony Lutheran and Perryville for the Woodland Invitational, hopes to battle Saxony for the Mississippi Valley Conference and the Crusaders and Advance in Class 2 District 3.

"Saxony is going to be pretty tough," Brown said. "Advance is still the team to beat [in district play], but I think Chaffee will be much improved."

As will his own team.

Meadow Heights boys

Coach: Tom Brown, seventh season

Last season: 9-15

Returning starters: Tyler Wagner, center, 6-5, sr.; Derrick Wilfong, guard, 5-11, jr.; Sam Russell, forward, 6-1, sr.

Other top players: Ethan Mayfield, guard, 5-7, jr.; Derek Bass, forward, 6-3, sr.; Luke Nitsch, center, 6-6, jr.; Tyler Welker, forward, 6-2, jr.; Adam Welker, guard, 5-11, jr.; Joseph Brown, guard, 5-8, jr.; Dustin Hubler, forward/center, 6-2, so.; Tyler Erune, guard, 6-2, jr.; Chad Kiefer, guard, 5-10, jr.; Matt Groves, guard, 5-9, jr.; Josh Long, guard, 6-0, sr.