Negaunee's Trent Bell dunks the ball during the first period of a game against Ishpeming at Lakeview Memorial Gymnasium Wednesday evening Jan. 13, 2016. (Journal photo by Elizabeth Bailey)

NEGAUNEE — After a disappointing end to their 2015-16 season, the Negaunee High School varsity boys basketball team is hungry for a chance to regain their dominance in the Mid-Peninsula Conference.

Negaunee had high hopes last year after a 19-0 start, but ended their regular season with a road loss in overtime at Iron Mountain that apparently carried over into a first-round loss in the Class C district tournament to Ishpeming.

The Miners have lost three seniors, but retain most of a roster that put together the success for the bulk of last season.

Returning for his senior season is fourth-year starter Dre Tuominen, who earned All-M-PC and All-Upper Peninsula honors last season at point guard.

Negaunee head coach Dan Waterman said Tuominen is the leader of the Miners’ offense.

“He controls everything on the floor,” the coach said. “It’s like having another coach on the court. He’s outstanding with hunting for his own offense, but at the same time gets everyone involved.

“He’s a phenomenal passer and shooter, and his talents are no secret. He’s at the top of everyone’s scouting report.”

Also returning for his fourth varsity season is Trent Bell, who at 6-foot-7 is actually listed as Negaunee’s “small” forward.

“Trent’s our our biggest guy with a great shot from the perimeter,” Waterman said. “He can slash to the basket and his improved with a lot of strength.”

The third Miner senior will be Brock Aho at the 5-spot, who Waterman said brings leadership to the team as well from his guard position.

Negaunee also carries three other seniors who will share playing time with a young underclassman group as well.

“Because we replace guys a lot, it’s going to be a development as we go along,” Waterman said. “We want Bell to steady us until we figure out everyone’s role. Our calling card has always been good defense and execute our offense, and those things will never change.”

The Miners tip off their season a week from tonight at Escanaba.

Waterman said to be successful early on, his players need to rely on the defense that’s carried them during his three years at Negaunee.

“Our guys are great with scouting teams, breaking them down and taking away what they do best,” Waterman said. “We have a solid man-to-man fundamental defense, and we pride ourselves on being tough and forcing teams to take physical shots.

“That’s what has made us successful in the past, and we’re going to be successful with it again this year.”

Ray Bressette can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 243. His email address is rbressette@miningjournal.net.