Developing the foundation of the program is essential for the Mehlville boys basketball team this season.

Mehlville was 13-14 last season.

The Panthers return seniors Aron DeRoy and Corey Ward, along with juniors Marcus Jacobs and Brady Sights.

Head coach Daniel Braun said building the program is key to the future success, but he also noted that the current team is looking to compete for some hardware.

“Our goal is to continue to develop the program and the individuals in the program as students, citizens and as basketball players,” Braun said. “We have the on-the-court goal of competing for a district championship.”

Depth will be an asset for the team this year.

“This is the deepest team we’ve had in a few years, with many guys that can contribute in different ways,” Braun said. “Our communication and energy level in practice has been improving and we’re hoping to see that translate to our games as well.”

Success this season hinges on developing younger players, and Braun is looking to the older players to show their leadership.

“We are looking for our upperclassmen to continue to grow as leaders and set the tone each day for each other and the younger players,” he said. “We are a group of individuals each working to push together towards a common goal.”