GRINNELL, Iowa – The Illinois College men's basketball team has been picked to finish third in the annual Midwest Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll.
The Blueboys, who received one first-place vote, are coming off a 17-9 season in 2024-25, including a 10-6 slate in league play. IC advanced to the semifinals of the postseason conference tournament for the fourth consecutive season.
Monmouth topped this season's preseason poll with 60 points and seven first-place votes.
Grinnell secured second place with 56 points and received one first-place vote.
Along with IC, the top five is rounded out by Lake Forest (40 points) and Ripon (33 points).
The poll concludes with Lawrence (27 points), Cornell (24 points), Beloit (22 points), and Knox (10 points).
The Blueboys open the 2025-26 season on Friday when they host Principia in the opening round of the annual Bill Merris Tournament at Sherman Gymnasium. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.
2025-26 MWC Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll Results
1. Monmouth College (7) – 60 points
2. Grinnell College (1) – 56 points
3. Illinois College (1) – 52 points
4. Lake Forest College - 40 points
5. Ripon College – 33 points
6. Lawrence University – 27 points
7. Cornell College – 24 points
8. Beloit College – 22 points
9. Knox College – 10 points
() – indicates first-place votes
