Catasauqua’s boys’ basketball team certainly will have a different look this winter.

For starters, the Rough Riders’ program was shut down earlier in the week due to a COVID-19 outbreak, and their opening game against Northampton Friday has been postponed.

Head coach Eric Snyder was optimistic his team could get back into action at Northern Lehigh Dec. 14, hoping all the protocols are fulfilled.

They also will truly be in a transition/rebuilding year.

Gone are guard/forward Derek Troxell, who became a 1,000-point scorer; Cole Schiffer, who also was a proficient and consistent scorer; and center Ty Reitz, who was a constant force in the middle.

The Roughis also lost forward and starter Mason Hess along with reserve center Carlos Martinez, whose production increased as the season progressed. Catty finished with an overall 7-12 mark.

Veteran head coach Eric Snyder begins his 29th year at the helm of the program, and possibly for the first time in his Catty career he has been faced with a unique dilemma.

“I really can’t tell you who will be in our starting lineup,” deadpanned Snyder. “We are getting a better feel for things by watching our scrimmages. We really have a group of guys who don’t have a lot of varsity experience, and we’ll see how we lineup.

“We’ll wait and see who can blend well on the court.”

Snyder will look to senior Donoven Keys, whose mobility has been slowed due to knee surgery during the football season. At 6-3, Keys provides size and bulk in the middle for the Rough Riders.

“He isn’t 100 percent out there,” said Snyder of Keys. “But he has a good court sense and gives us some size. As the year progresses, we expect him to get better and be a solid contributor for us.”

Junior Joe Fischl has a good summer, and Snyder also anticipates him to spend some time down low. Freshman Jeremiah Cofie also has looked good in the post.

“Joe came along last year,” said Snyder. “He has had some injuries, and he just needs court time.”

Juniors Bryann Rivera and Cedric Bright both are strong candidates to log some meaningful minutes at guard with Rivera likely manning the point. Senior Jared Schneck expects to be in the mix along with junior Irving Torres and freshman Matt Fotta.

Senior Jose and Emmanuel Jiminez should also see some time, as the twins have impressed with hustle and work ethic.

Junior Brendan Nye, who wrestled last year, has been impressive with his passing and court sense. Sophomore Ian Juica can make an impact.

With the latest COVID complications and a new cast in place, Snyder understands patience truly will be a virtue this season.

“We’ll see how we get through this,” added Snyder. “It will be an interesting year.”