For the first time in seven years, Bethune-Cookman will open the season as the team to beat.
The Wildcats were voted preseason favorites to win the conference title, collecting 12 of a possible 22 first-place votes in the league’s annual poll — their first top preseason selection since 2018, when they were members of the MEAC.
Southern University and Jackson State rounded out the top three preseason picks, earning the second and third spots, respectively.
SWAC Men’s Basketball Predicted Order of Finish 🏀#SWACMBB | #BuildingChampionsForLife pic.twitter.com/UeN4jE3HOo
— Southwestern Athletic Conference (@theswac) October 8, 2025
The Wildcats went 13-5 in the SWAC last season and were eliminated in the SWAC tournament semifinals by Jackson State.
“Being the preseason number one is great, and it shows what others around the league feel about what we’ve brought in, and the program you’re building here in Daytona Beach,” said head coach Reggie Theus. “However, with great expectations comes great responsibility to live up to the hype put upon you.”
We sleep in May 😼🏀🎨 https://t.co/O0G7ocnhrF pic.twitter.com/4RDBaCylZa
— Bryce Hoynoski (@Hoynoski_) October 8, 2025
Theus, entering another season at the helm, has emphasized both discipline and growth in elevating Bethune-Cookman’s football resurgence. With a strong recruiting class and returning leadership, the Wildcats aim to justify their preseason billing when the new campaign kicks off later this fall.
