PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Keene State College was once again named the favorite to win the Little East Conference (LEC) men’s basketball title after totaling six first-place votes and 61 points in the annual preseason coaches’ poll, it was announced by the LEC office Tuesday.
 
The Owls posted an overall record of 23-6 last season on their way to winning their fourth consecutive LEC tournament title and third straight regular season championship. The Owls will replace the bulk of their key players from lats season as they look to play for the league championship for the 12th time in 14 seasons.
 
Western Connecticut State University was picked to finish second in the poll with 53 points and one first -place vote. The Wolves have been the runner-up to Keene State in the LEC standings and tournament championship each of the last three seasons. The edged out University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, which is projected to finish third in the league this season after tallying 48 points and one first-place vote.
 
Eastern Connecticut State University placed fourth in the preseason poll with 41 points and the remaining first-place vote, while Rhode Island College (36 points) and UMass Boston (35 points) round out the projected six-team LEC tournament field. The complete 2025-26 LEC Men’s Basketball Preseason Coaches’ Poll is as follows.
 
Institution - Points (FPV)
1. Keene State - 61 (6)
2. Western Connecticut - 53 (1)
3. UMass Dartmouth - 48 (1)
4. Eastern Connecticut - 41 (1)
5. Rhode Island College - 36
6. UMass Boston - 35
7. Southern Maine - 26
8. Plymouth State - 15
9. VTSU Castleton - 9
 
NOTE: Head coaches are not permitted to vote for their own team.