Owls Ranked Second in CUSA Poll as Cottle Earns Preseason Player of the Year Honors
Kennesaw State Men’s Basketball Rises in CUSA Preseason Poll with Historic Milestones
Strong Show of Faith in KSU Basketball Team
The Kennesaw State Owls are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming 2025-26 basketball season as they have been picked second in the Conference USA (CUSA) Preseason Poll. This marks a notable shift from the previous year when they were expected to tie for last place. The announcement, made by the league office on Thursday, highlights growing confidence in the team’s capabilities.
Simeon Cottle Makes History for Kennesaw State
Senior guard Simeon Cottle has made a historic mark by being the first Owl to be named the conference preseason Player of the Year. Cottle’s performance last season, where he averaged a career-high 18.0 points per game, impressed many. His remarkable skills on the court have established him as the highest returning scorer in the conference, solidifying his standout position.
Emerging Talent: Braedan Lue
Joining Cottle in the spotlight is freshman standout Braedan Lue. Hailing from Douglasville, Ga., Lue received CUSA All-Freshman Team honors last season with an impressive 10.0 points per game. His defensive prowess, marked by 36 blocks, ranks him third in KSU history, showcasing his potential to significantly impact the team’s success.
A Promising Season Ahead
Kennesaw State’s basketball team is set to make waves with three returning starters and a mix of six promising freshmen and three NCAA D1 transfers. Fans can look forward to the official season opener against Paine College on November 3. Tickets for single-game and season matches are now available through Emegypt.
Comprehensive Preseason Poll Predictions
| Rank | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Liberty | 143 |
| 2. | Kennesaw State | 126 |
| 3. | New Mexico State | 113 |
| 4. | Middle Tennessee | 103 |
| 5. | Louisiana Tech | 82 |
| 6. | Western Kentucky | 79 |
| 7. | Jacksonville State | 67 |
| 8. | UTEP | 66 |
| 9. | Sam Houston | 56 |
| 10. | FIU | 36 |
| 11. | Delaware | 35 |
| 12. | Missouri State | 30 |
Join The Owls Fund to Support KSU Athletics
The Owls Fund remains a pivotal force for Kennesaw State Athletics, driving initiatives to support student-athletes and programs. By participating in events such as the Legacy Lockers, fans can enjoy exclusive benefits including premium seating and events at home games. Discover more opportunities to support KSU through The Owls Fund on Emegypt.
