Northwest men top MIAA Preseason Poll

2016-17 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll

1. Northwest Missouri (13) 169

2. Washburn (1) 147

3. Fort Hays State 129

4. Lincoln 123

5. Missouri Southern 111

6. Nebraska-Kearney 104

7. Central Oklahoma 94

8. Pittsburg State 93

9. Central Missouri 92

10. Lindenwood 72

11. Emporia State 55

12. Missouri Western 45

13. Northeastern State 22

14. Southwest Baptist 18

- The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team was picked first in the 2016-17 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll which was released by the conference office on Wednesday. The Bearcats received all 13 of the possible 13 first place votes to top the poll. Coaches cannot vote for their own institution.Northwest returns four starters off last year's team that went 27-6 overall and 19-3 in MIAA play. The Bearcats captured both the regular season and conference tournament titles, advancing to the NCAA Sweet 16 round for the third consecutive year.is the reigning MIAA Player of the Year and coachwas named MIAA Coach of the Year. Seniorearned All-MIAA third team honors whilewas an honorable mention performer.The Bearcats begin the 2016-17 season on Friday, Nov. 11, against Upper Iowa in St. Joseph, Mo., at 3 p.m. The first home action for Northwest will be on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m., against defending national champion Augustana University. Ticket information for Bearcat basketball can be found HERE