Rome, GA - The USA South Athletic Conference released its 2025-26 Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches Poll, with Wesleyan selected second overall following a 2024-25 campaign that saw the Bishops reach the conference championship game.

Pfeiffer topped the poll with 47 total points and five first-place votes after capturing both the regular-season and tournament titles last year. The Bishops were close behind with 45 points and the remaining three first-place votes, while Brevard and Mary Baldwin rounded out the top four. Coaches were not permitted to vote for their own teams.

NCWU's second-place projection reflects the program's consistency and championship pedigree. The Bishops own the most regular-season conference titles (10) among current league members, along with five USA South Tournament crowns. Under head coach John Thompson, Wesleyan advanced to the 2025 USA South Tournament Finals, falling to Pfeiffer after a strong postseason run.

The 2025-26 USA South Tournament will once again be held on campus sites, beginning February 24 with first-round matchups. The semifinals are set for February 26, followed by the championship on February 28.

Upcoming Schedule
The Bishops will tip-off regular-season play at the William Peace Classic in Raleigh on November 8–9. Wesleyan's home opener is scheduled for Wednesday, November 12 against Guilford inside Everett Gymnasium.

The conference slate begins January 3 when the Bishops host defending champion Pfeiffer in the USA South opener. Senior Day is set for February 14 versus Southern Virginia, with postseason play beginning later that month.

Fans can get an early look at this year's team on Monday night at 6:30 p.m. during the annual Blue & Gold Game inside Everett Gymnasium.