Jax State Men’s Basketball Projected Seventh in 2025-26 Conference USA Rankings

Jacksonville State’s Basketball Team Gears Up for Conference USA

Potential and Challenges for Jacksonville State

The Jacksonville State men’s basketball team is set to embark on a new season, poised at seventh place in the Conference USA preseason rankings. These rankings were determined by votes from the league’s 12 head coaches, signaling fresh challenges and opportunities for the Gamecocks.

Liberty and Kennesaw State: Leading the Preseason Polls

The Liberty team, last season’s CUSA champion, has been unanimously picked to lead the league with 11 out of 12 first-place votes. Following closely, Kennesaw State takes the second spot with one first-place vote, showcasing strong predictions for the upcoming season.

Roster Changes and New Talent for Jacksonville State

Jacksonville State was last year’s CUSA tournament runner-up and made its debut in the National Invitation Tournament. However, significant roster changes are stirring anticipation for the upcoming season. The team will welcome 12 newcomers, alongside returning players Marcus Fitzgerald Jr., Jamar Franklin, and Aidan Driggers. Last season, injuries kept Fitzgerald out entirely, while Franklin had a promising start with 14 games until an injury halted his progress.

Among the new talents is Mostapha El Moutaouakkil, a 6-foot-6 guard from Louisiana, who has already made his mark by being named to the preseason All-CUSA team. El Moutaouakkil led the Ragin’ Cajuns in scoring and rebounding last season, with impressive field statistics, and is anticipated to bring much-needed energy to the Gamecocks.

Season Opener and Key Players to Watch

In addition to El Moutaouakkil, Kennesaw State’s guard Simeon Cottle has been identified as the Conference USA Preseason Player of the Year, highlighting significant competition for the Gamecocks. Jacksonville State will commence its season with a home game against NAIA Oakwood from Huntsville on Monday, November 3.

Conference USA Preseason Rankings

Here is a breakdown of the Conference USA men’s basketball preseason rankings:

As Jacksonville State prepares for the basketball season, all eyes will be on how the new roster consolidates and performs against formidable conference competitors.