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The "R" in Montrose must stand for reload.

That's what legendary Montrose Christian School boys basketball coach Stu Vetter does each and every winter, replacing scores of future college players with equally impressive prospects.

The Mustangs, ranked No. 5 in the country in the ESPN Fab50 poll, lost seven seniors from last year's 21-win team, including six who are now playing college basketball.

They have once again gained preseason national recognition, ranked 12th in the country by the USA Today with the return of University of Maryland signee Terrence Ross (6-foot-6), super sophomore Justin Anderson (6-6) and the addition of Duke (N.C.) commit Josh Hairston (6-9).

Ross, a high-flying swingman who can consistently knock down 3-pointers, averaged roughly 15 points and 5 rebounds per game last year. Anderson displayed similar attributes a year ago in fewer minutes.

"The team will be very versatile, very athletic," said Vetter. "It's one of the most athletic teams I've had and it's a young team. We've only got three seniors. ... We'll have some bumps in the road as far as the schedule, but if they continue to work hard, they could be one of my best teams at Montrose."

Besides Hairston, the Mustangs welcome in Canadian native Nazareth Long (6-3), Nigerian forward Paul Gombwer (6-6) and Venezuelan forward Michael Carrera (6-6), who is a friend of current Maryland guard Greivis Vasquez, a Montrose graduate.

Of course, they will play teams as deep as they are. Their schedule features appearances in Hawaii at the Iolani Tournament and the Montverde Academy Tournament that includes USA Today's No. 2 team, Findlay Prep (Las Vegas). Montrose will also play perennial national powerhouse St. Anthony's of New Jersey in the Primetime Shootout.

Montrose Christian Mustangs

Head coach: Stu Vetter, 11th year (240-32 record; 33rd year overall, 798-98)

League affiliation: Independent

Last year's record: 21-3

Players to watch: G Terrence Ross, F Josh Hairston, G Justin Anderson