Our first poll of the season is out by the Reaching the Summit voters, and South Dakota State finds themselves in a familiar spot, on top. Outside of Oral Roberts historic run last season this is a common spot for the Jackrabbits, let’s take a look at our 1-9 along with some voter comments
- South Dakota State: 124 pts (12) first place vote
Voters cited, the best player in the league along with being too well coached. Others cited that South Dakota State and North Dakota State are locks for 1 and 2 but either could finish first. The lack of roster turnover at South Dakota State also makes them a favorite. Charlie Easley and Matt Mims being great perimeter defenders makes them dangerous. Appel coming back can dominate in the post and William Kyle provides rim protection.
2. North Dakota State: 113pts (2)
One voter predicted that the Bison may not be as strong in the regular season but will make noise in the postseason. Others remarked that they finished strong last year and are so well coached. Another said it’s just hard to pick against them given their success in the league. Also noted was a voter believing Andrew Morgan would breakout this season and the sophomore guards would be much better in their second year.
3. Oral Roberts: 94pts
Again it was argued that their success in the league makes them a contender. Also noted was the thought that Issac McBride would have a breakout season. Kareem Thompson was another breakout contender. Some weren’t sure where to put them because it was a new age with no Max and the coaching change.
4. St. Thomas: 86pts
One voter put St. Thomas very high because in their opinion Coach Tauer is the best coach in the league. Also the low amount of roster turnover. Transfer guard Raheem Anthony was predicted to have a major impact. Two other voters mentioned the low amount of roster turnover. The veteran presence of Brooks Allen and Parker Bjorklund was also credited with a potential high finish.
5. North Dakota: 75pts
Voters are excited with the strong finish from last year along with the additions of Eli King and Tyree Ihenacho through the transfer portal although it should be noted Ihenacho is not yet deemed eligible. Some voters still noted they may not have the talent to catch the 4 ahead of them. Where another voter called them a team to watch, this season.
6. Omaha: 53pts
One voter called the Mavericks a team that could surprise because they are bringing back most of their core. Another called them one of the more talented bottom-half teams. Another stated Frankie Fidler is one of the more talented players in the league but teams are willing to live with him going one on one. another voter called the Mavericks a team that could surprise.
7. South Dakota: 42pts
One voter remarked that they liked some of the talent brought in but were just not sure where to put them with so much change. Another said it’s almost like the real year one for Coach Eric Peterson. Several questioned the chemistry of last year’s team but also wondered with so many new players the chemistry of this year’s team.
8. Kansas City: 27pts
Voters were concerned with the loss of talented guards Allen and Mitchell. Voters did not that they would defend and have good size and some talent but would be tough to replace the lost scoring. One voter noted that Anderson Kopp returning may help that.
9. Denver: 22pts
Another team that voters were concerned about the amount of roster turnover from last year. Notably talented young guards Justin Mullins and Tevin Smith. One voter mentioned that it was important that Tommy Bruner was returning. One voter mentioned there was talent returning but “not enough to make some noise”. The altitude and home-court advantage may help them squeeze out some extra wins at home.