The 2025-26 basketball season is almost here, and the predictions are in—but they’re already sparking debates. Ottawa University’s men’s basketball team has been ranked 10th by coaches and 7th by media in the KCAC Preseason Polls, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are these rankings a fair reflection of the Braves’ potential, or are they being underestimated? Let’s dive into the details.
In the Coaches’ Poll, Oklahoma Wesleyan University snagged the top spot with 162 points and seven first-place votes, positioning them as the preseason favorite. Friends University trailed closely behind with 156 points and six first-place votes, while Bethel College and the University of Saint Mary tied for third with 139 points each—Bethel securing the final first-place vote. The rest of the rankings saw Southwestern College (128) in fifth, Evangel University (105) in sixth, McPherson College (81) in seventh, Avila University (78) in eighth, Kansas Wesleyan University (73) in ninth, and Ottawa University (69) rounding out the top ten. Sterling College (57), York University (34), Bethany College (33), and Tabor College (20) completed the list.
The Media Poll told a slightly different story, though Oklahoma Wesleyan still claimed the top spot with 159 points and six first-place votes. Friends University followed with 158 points and five first-place votes, while the University of Saint Mary (137 points) secured the final first-place vote for third place. Southwestern College (126) and Bethel College (122) rounded out the top five. Evangel University (100) landed in sixth, Ottawa University (88) in seventh, Kansas Wesleyan University (86) in eighth, McPherson College (73) in ninth, and Avila University (63) in tenth. The remaining teams included Sterling College (56), Bethany College (43), York University (26), and Tabor College (23).
And this is the part most people miss: While Ottawa University’s rankings might seem lower than expected, it’s worth noting that preseason polls are just predictions—they don’t define a team’s destiny. The Braves have a chance to prove the naysayers wrong when they tip off their season on Thursday, October 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Hesston, Kan., against Hesston College. Will they rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
But here’s the real question: Do you think Ottawa University’s rankings are justified, or are they being overlooked? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to heat up as the season unfolds.
