SENECA — With a varsity team coming off an 18-12 season and a 9-2 conference showing that lost one graduate, there is optimism around the Seneca boys basketball program.

Yet coach Russell Witte says the Fighting Irish probably should not be considered the favorite in even their own Turkey Tournament, which starts Monday, let alone beyond it.

"It's going to be a real good tournament. It's the strongest field we've had in a while," Witte said. "Hinckley (Big Rock) has a regional championship-type of team, and they're bringing everybody back as well. ... In talking with the St. Anne coach (Richard Schoon), it sounds like they should be much improved. On the other side (Pool B), Illiana Christian won it last year. Braidwood (Reed-Custer) should be much improved. Hall should be much improved. ... There are about four or five teams capable of getting to that last game."