Maine West's first season as an independent school began last Monday with the opening of practice for the first Warrior basketball squad.

Coach Gaston Freeman is holding the practice and try‑out sessions in preparation for the Warrior's first game of the season November 21 at Willowbrook. Maine West, though not officially a member of Interim conference until 1961, will be playing many of the schools they will have to face when they do become members of the newest conference in the Chicago area. Until 1961, the Warriors will be playing an independent schedule and will not be in any conference race.

Letterman George Verber is the only carryover from last year's Demon cage squad. Verber was a high‑scoring forward on one of the most successful Maine cage squads in their history. The team piled up a 11‑3 record, good for second place in the West Suburban conference.

Doug Schmidt, another strong jumping forward, also has game experience from last year's varsity. Bill Wegner, Pete Paulson, and Bruce Ullock, having played junior varsity ball last year, are other experienced players trying out. Schmidt and three other former JV's, Chuck Reid. Bob Kunkel, and Ron Martin cannot try out until they have finished their duties on the varsity football team.

Home games will be played in the Maine fieldhouse though all practice sessions take place in A wing gymnasium.