WHEELING, W.Va. — With 10 returners and seven new transfers joining the program, the Davis & Elkins College men's basketball team is set for an exciting 2025-26 campaign. The Mountain East Conference (MEC) announced its preseason poll Tuesday at WesBanco Arena, where the Senators were picked to finish tied for eighth in the league's annual coaches' vote.
Fairmont State was tabbed as the preseason favorite, earning 10 of 11 first-place votes after winning the MEC Tournament last season and finishing 27-5 overall. West Liberty received the remaining first-place vote and is predicted to finish second following its 30-5 season and trip to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.
The Senators return a strong core from last year's roster, including Dontrell Jenkins and Nnadozie Okoroji. Jenkins averaged 7.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game in 25 appearances, while Okoroji contributed 6.1 points and 3.0 rebounds in 29 games.
Head Coach Daniel Harris enters his second season at the helm and said he's eager to see this group take the next step.
"I'm fired up about the group we have this season," Harris said. "This team is going to be exciting to watch. We've got a strong core of returners and a dynamic class of transfers who are ready to help take this program to the next level. We can't wait to get things rolling, compete for an MEC Championship, and make a statement in the NCAA Tournament."
With a mix of experience and new energy, the Senators are focused on establishing themselves among the conference's top contenders.
Davis & Elkins opens the 2025-26 season on Friday, Nov. 14, against Lock Haven University in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania.
MEC Men's Basketball Preseason Poll
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Fairmont State (10) – 100
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West Liberty (1) – 88
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Charleston – 81
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Glenville State – 74
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Concord – 64
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West Virginia State – 58
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Frostburg State – 39
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Wheeling – 34
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Davis & Elkins – 34
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Point Park – 21
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West Virginia Wesleyan – 12
