The Atlantic 10 Conference has proclaimed Dayton as the top pick in the annual preseason poll for men’s basketball, marking their second consecutive year as the favorite. This announcement was made during the conference’s Media Day at the Barclays Center, where head coaches and select media members cast their votes.
Dayton secured its position at the top with a total of 370 poll points and 20 first-place votes. The team’s roster includes Preseason All-Conference selections DaRon Holmes II and Malachi Smith, positioning the Flyers for success. Holmes, renowned for his exceptional shot-blocking skills, was also named to the All-Defensive Preseason Team.
Following closely behind in the poll is defending champion VCU, who earned 321 points and three first-place votes. Under the leadership of first-year coach Ryan Odom, the Rams aim to leverage the talent of Max Shulga and Sean Bairstow, both transfers from Odom’s previous Utah State team.
St. Bonaventure claimed the third spot in the Preseason Poll with 319 points and one first-place vote, while Duquesne was chosen as the fourth top team with 302 points. Saint Joseph’s and Saint Louis secured the fifth and sixth positions in the poll, respectively.
Looking ahead, the 2023-24 men’s basketball season will commence on Monday, Nov. 6, and Conference play will begin on Wednesday, January 3. The season will culminate with the Atlantic 10 Men’s Basketball Championship, scheduled to return to Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. The championship event, set to kick off on Tuesday, March 12, will culminate in the crowning of the 2023-24 champion on March 17, Selection Sunday on CBS.
The Preseason All-Conference First Team includes standout players such as Erik Reynolds II, Dae Dae Grant, and others who demonstrate exceptional talent and skill. Additionally, the Preseason All-Defensive Team recognizes players known for their defensive prowess, a crucial aspect of the game.
As the anticipation for the upcoming season builds, fans eagerly await the thrilling matchups and exciting moments that are sure to unfold on the basketball court. With seasoned veterans and promising newcomers set to take the stage, the Atlantic 10 Conference is poised to deliver an action-packed season full of unforgettable performances.