DALLAS – Two-time defending conference champion Missouri State has been slotted as the favorite in Division II of the Lone Star Alliance (LSA), according to the preseason coaches poll that was released on Monday.

The Bears, who posted a 4-4 record during 2020 and were ranked No. 16 in the country, grabbed four first-place votes, helping them edge No. 2 Rice by four points. The Owls, who met Missouri State in the 2019 LSA title contest, were awarded two first-place votes.

Washington (Mo.) and UT-San Antonio each grabbed a first-place vote, allowing them to fill out the third and fourth slots in the 16-team poll, respectively.

Conference newcomer Ole Miss, which grabbed a first-place vote, and UT-Dallas tied for the No. 5 spot.

Dallas Baptist, which was ranked No. 12, also grabbed a first-place vote.

“We’re excited about the beginning of the season as LSA Division II should be extremely competitive this spring,” said conference director Jason Zantjer. “Missouri State is a worthy pick for No. 1, but they will get pushed all season long.”

2021 LSA Division II Preseason Coaches Poll