Patriots baskeball predicted to finish fourth

Both men’s and women’s basketball teams were selected to finish fourth in the American Southwest East Division in the annual preseason poll conducted by conference head coaches, sports information directors and media members.

The Patriots’ men received 84 points in the poll. Defending conference champions, the University of Texas at Dallas, received 133 total points, 13 first place votes and the top spot. Mississippi College was selected to finish second, receiving 125 points and seven first place votes.

In the West Division, Mary Hardin-Baylor received the top position, followed by McMurry, Concordia and Hardin-Simmons. LeTourneau received the final first place vote, along with 99 points, and received the third position.

“It’s where I thought we would be,” coach Kenny Bizot said. “It’s going to be an interesting year.” Bizot said he feels very good about his team’s depth this season, as long as they stay healthy.

UT Dallas was selected to finish first in the East Division on the women’s side as well. The Comets received 132 points and 12 first place votes. Mississippi College finished one point and five first place votes behind the Comets to receive the second place position.

The Patriots received 89 points in the fourth spot. Louisiana College received two first place votes and 93 points for third place. “Nobody knows much about us,” coach Stasha Richards said. “We want to place better, but I have no problem with where we were placed.

Richards said her team is going to be young and that she’s counting on good defense this season. The men begin their season at Louisiana-Monroe on Nov. 5. The women play their first game on Nov. 20 against Howard Payne.