CASTINE, Maine — Adam Richardson of Old Town, Andre Paul of Calais and Alik Espling of Orono are among five standouts who will join the Maine Maritime Academy men’s basketball program next fall.
Alexander Neill of Augusta and Dennis “D.J.” Harris of Vallejo, California, also plan to attend the school and play for coach David Muchnick.
“We are absolutely thrilled with this first recruiting class at Maine Maritime,” Muchnick said in a press release.
“Anytime you rebuild a program, you’re looking to bring in newcomers who know what it takes to be successful. This recruiting class is a giant leap forward on the path to championship possibilities, and our staff couldn’t be happier,” he added.
The Mariners will feature eight returning players, six of whom were underclassmen last season.
Espling, a 6-foot-3 guard, plans to study international business and logistics. He suffered a shoulder injury during his senior year but was part of an Orono team that reached the Eastern Maine Class C title game.
Harris, a 6-1 guard, plans to study international business and logistics. He helped lead his team to the Section IV Divisional Semifinals and NorCal State Tournament.
Richardson, a 6-4 forward, plans to study power engineering technology. As a junior, he helped lead Old Town to the Class B state championship.
Paul, a 5-10 guard, plans to study marine engineering operations. He was a key player in Calais’ run to the Class C state title.
Neill, a 6-4 forward, will study vessel operations technology. He played one season at Unity College.
Richards to play in all-star game
Pitcher Andrew Richards and head coach Ed Flaherty will represent the University of Southern Maine at the 41st NEIBA Joe Walsh All-Star Game at 7 p.m. Sunday at LeLacheur Park in Lowell, Massachusetts.
Aaron Rosen and Henry Van Zant of Bowdoin College also will play for the College Division team (Divisions II, III) against the University Division all-stars from Division I program.