The Big East coaches have projected Marquette men’s basketball to finish fourth in the conference this season, signaling belief in a rebound after a 7-13 league record last year. Released on October 1, the annual preseason poll gave the Golden Eagles one first-place vote, the only team besides Connecticut and St. John’s to receive any.
Connecticut was the overwhelming favorite to top the 11-team Big East, earning eight first-place votes. St. John’s came in second with two first-place votes, while Villanova was slotted third, just ahead of Marquette. The Golden Eagles had tied for seventh place last season and were unable to vote for themselves in the coaches’ poll.
Sophomore point guard Nigel James Jr. earned unanimous selection to the all-Big East first team. The 6-foot guard made an immediate impact last season as Big East freshman of the year, averaging 16.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. His presence figures to be central to Marquette’s hopes this season.
Alongside James, sophomore forward Royce Parham was named to the all-Big East second team. Parham’s strong finish last season included averaging 16.4 points in the final seven games, a stretch that could provide momentum heading into the new campaign. Marquette also welcomed a new face in Sananda Fru, a transfer from Louisville, who was voted to the third team. Fru averaged 9.0 points and 6.1 rebounds per game for the Cardinals last season.
Connecticut players swept the preseason individual awards. Silas Demary Jr. was chosen as the player of the year, while Colben Landrew was voted freshman of the year, further solidifying the Huskies’ status as the preseason favorites.
The full coaches’ preseason Big East poll reads: Connecticut first, followed by St. John’s, Villanova, Marquette, Providence, Xavier, Creighton, DePaul, Seton Hall, Georgetown, and Butler.
Marquette’s placement and individual honors reflect a mix of respect for last season’s struggles and optimism about the team’s core talent and incoming additions. Coaches clearly expect Nigel James Jr. to carry forward his freshman success as the Golden Eagles aim to climb the standings this season.
According to Yahoo Sports.