Eight of nine first-place votes. The Sun Conference coaches have made Keiser the clear preseason favorite.
The Seahawks lead the 2026–27 men’s basketball coaches poll with 64 points. Ave Maria is second at 53, with St. Thomas close behind at 51. The Bobcats received the only first-place vote that did not go to Keiser.
Southeastern is fourth with 44 points, followed by Coastal Georgia with 35 and Florida Memorial with 32.
2026–27 preseason coaches poll
- Keiser
- Ave Maria
- St. Thomas
- Southeastern
- Coastal Georgia
- Florida Memorial
- Warner
- New College of Florida
- Webber International
Warner received 17 points, New College of Florida 15 and Webber International 13.
Keiser brings a strong recent track record into the season. The Seahawks finished 25–6 last year, won their second consecutive conference regular-season title and reached the second round of the NAIA national tournament. It was their third straight national tournament appearance.
The coaches see Keiser at the front, but the battle immediately behind the Seahawks is worth watching. Just two points separate Ave Maria and St. Thomas. Turning that preseason order into a championship race will be the next challenge.
