What's Happening?
James Madison University has been selected as the preseason favorite to win the 2025-26 Sun Belt Conference men's basketball title. This decision was made following a vote by the league's head coaches. James Madison, which shared last season's Sun Belt regular
season title and secured the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament, received one first-place vote and accumulated 175 points. The team, under the leadership of head coach Preston Spradlin, achieved a 20-12 overall record and a 13-5 league record in their first season. Arkansas State was ranked second with 154 points, followed by South Alabama and Troy. Old Dominion University (ODU) junior guard Robert Davis Jr. was named the Sun Belt's Preseason Player of the Year. Davis, the top returning scorer, averaged 15.6 points per game last season and led NCAA Division I players in 3-point attempts. The Sun Belt Conference also announced its Preseason All-Sun Belt Teams, featuring players from 11 different programs.
Why It's Important?
The preseason rankings and player honors set expectations for the upcoming Sun Belt Conference basketball season, influencing team strategies and fan engagement. James Madison's position as the favorite highlights their strong performance and potential for success, impacting recruitment and media attention. Robert Davis Jr.'s recognition as Preseason Player of the Year underscores his significant role in ODU's strategy and potential impact on the team's performance. These developments can affect the dynamics within the conference, as teams adjust their strategies to compete against the top-ranked teams and players. The preseason selections also contribute to the visibility and reputation of the Sun Belt Conference, attracting attention from sponsors and media outlets.
What's Next?
The Sun Belt Conference will hold its annual Men's Basketball Media Day on October 22, providing an opportunity for coaches and players to discuss their expectations and strategies for the upcoming season. The regular season is set to begin on November 3, with teams participating in the MAC-SBC Challenge. The conference schedule includes an 18-game league slate starting in December. The 2026 Sun Belt Men's Basketball Championship will take place at the Pensacola Bay Center in Florida from March 3-9, where teams will compete for the conference title. These events will further shape the competitive landscape of the Sun Belt Conference and influence postseason opportunities.
