SoCon Preseason Coaches Poll: Did the Coaches Get It Wrong?

The 2026-27 Southern Conference basketball preseason coaches poll is here, and the predictions raise one burning question: did the league's head coaches get it right? Furman claims the preseason top spot, but looming eligibility questions could flip the script. Meanwhile, VMI boasts the preseason Player of the Year and the league's top returning scorer, yet finds itself slotted all the way down at ninth. Add in Tennessee Tech making its Southern Conference debut in the middle of the pack, and the stage is set for serious drama. Richmond Weaver and Darren Angell return to break down the biggest surprises, snubs, and what these preseason rankings truly signal heading into the season. In This Episode: Furman at No. 1 & The Eligibility Factor — Why the Paladins were picked to repeat at the top and how eligibility uncertainties could shift the standings. Complete Poll Breakdown — Sizing up the 2026-27 rankings from top to bottom, including UNCG's transfer portal overhaul. The VMI Conundrum — Breaking down Rickey Bradley Jr.'s Preseason Player of the Year nod and why the Keydets were projected ninth despite elite firepower. Tennessee Tech's SoCon Arrival — How the Golden Eagles fit into the middle tier of the conference in their inaugural campaign. Preseason All-SoCon & Parity — Examining the All-SoCon selections, potential snubs, and how wide open the race to Asheville will be. Presented by Ingles Markets