SOU WINTER SPORTS PRESEASON POLLS 2025

As we near the beginning of winter sports season, the preseason polls for the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) and the NAIA have been released and SOU is predicted to make a big impact. All four teams (men's and women's basketball and men's and women's wrestling) were chosen to finish in the top five of the conference and top 20 nationally. Following many impressive performances last year, it looks as though these teams are in for another great season. Check out all things Raiders Athletics: https://souraiders.com/

SOU's Men's Basketball team was ranked 2nd in the Cascade Collegiate Conference preseason polls for 2025-2026, also receiving two first place votes. The Raiders were also ranked 14th in the NAIA's preseason poll. Coming second in the conference only to the reigning national champions, several key players will return for the coming season allowing for momentum to continue after the team's strong performance in last year's post season. After a tough slate of pre=conference games, the Raiders will be back at home in December to kick off the first weekend of conference play. 

SOU's Women's Basketball team was ranked 3rd in the CCC preseason poll, also receiving two first place votes. The team was ranked 15th in the NAIA preseason polls. Following an incredible 34-0 run last year before falling in the quarterfinals, the team lost 11 players from their roster. However, with key returning players and a strong coach leading recruitment, the Raiders can't be counted out to continue to make an impact this upcoming season. The team will play their first home games in early November at the Raider Classic.

The SOU Men's Wrestling team was ranked 1st in the CCC preseason polls as they look to defend their title for the 2025-2026 season. The team also received a 6th place ranking in the NAIA preseason poll, their highest ranking in nine years following a top-ten finish last season. With 33 returning wrestlers (including eight All-Americans) and the reigning CCC coach of the year leading the way, it is sure to be another impressive season for the Raiders' men's wrestling. 

SOU's Women's Wrestling team was ranked 2nd in the CCC preseason polls and received two first place votes after claiming the conference championship title last season. They also ranked 9th in the NAIA preseason poll after a 7th place finish at the tournament last year. Of the returning Raiders, five were individually ranked in the top ten, and three more were ranked among the top 20 for their weight classes. The team will kick off this season with their brand new coach in early November.

Photos courtesy of Al Case