Markwood, 40, was a basketball star at South Portland High and a former player and assistant coach at UMaine.

The Black Bears, winners of 14 straight games, will host Albany in the America East championship game on Friday in Orono.

The senior forward has been UMaine’s leader on the floor during its five-game win streak.

Coach Jordan Stevens, a native of Maine, signs high school seniors from Leavitt, Thornton Academy and two from Bonny Eagle.

The new coaches come on board as the Black Bears ready for Wednesday’s national signing day.

The Black Bears had to cancel last weekend’s series at Penn State, but the team is preparing to host Alaska-Fairbanks on Friday and Saturday.

Wednesday marked the first day of NCAA football’s early signing period for recruits.

Jordan Stevens, a former UMaine defensive star, made a favorable impression in his first meeting with the team.