OKLAHOMA CITY — Texas Wesleyan University was picked fifth in the 2026-27 Sooner Athletic Conference Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll, as voted on by the league's head coaches.

The Rams received 76 points to rank fifth among 12 conference programs entering the upcoming season.

Nelson University claimed the top spot with 115 points and six first-place votes after winning the 2025-26 regular-season championship with a 26-6 overall record and a 19-3 mark in conference play. The Lions advanced to the NAIA National Tournament after falling in the SAC tournament semifinals.

Langston followed closely in second place with 113 points and six first-place votes. The Lions finished 29-8 overall last season, including a 17-5 conference record, and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament championship game.

Wayland Baptist earned third place with 99 points after posting a 29-8 overall record and a 20-6 conference mark. The Pioneers reached the NAIA National Tournament following a semifinal appearance in the SAC tournament.

Mid-America Christian rounded out the top four with 92 points after finishing the 2025-26 season with a 19-10 overall record and a 13-9 mark in conference play.

Texas Wesleyan will look to build on its recent success under third-year head coach Brian Wanamaker as the Rams prepare for the 2026-27 campaign and pursue a run at the SAC championship and the NAIA National Tournament.

John Brown placed sixth with 74 points, followed by Science & Arts with 56 and Oklahoma City with 54. Southwestern Christian received 34 points, while Panhandle State earned 28. College of the Ozarks and Central Christian tied for 11th with 25 points apiece.

2026-27 SAC Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll

            1. Nelson — 115 points (6 first-place votes)
            2. Langston — 113 points (6)

            3. Wayland Baptist — 99 points

            4. Mid-America Christian — 92 points

            5. Texas Wesleyan — 76 points

            6. John Brown — 74 points

            7. Science & Arts — 56 points

            8. Oklahoma City — 54 points

            9. Southwestern Christian — 34 points

            10. Panhandle State — 28 points
            T11. College of the Ozarks — 25 points

            T11. Central Christian — 25 points