Big Sky coaches, media expect big things from EWU men

The expectations just got higher for the Eastern Washington men’s basketball team.

With four returning starters, the Eagles were picked second by the coaches and third by the media in preseason polls released Thursday by the Big Sky Conference.

“First of all, you say thank you,” said Eastern head coach Jim Hayford, who begins his fourth season. “It’s nice that they are thinking that highly of our team. That recognizes a lot of hard work that has been put in by our players.”

Eastern received one first-place vote from the coaches and 100 total points. In the media poll, Eastern had 318 points and a first-place vote.

Defending champ Weber State was picked to repeat in both polls.

Big Sky newcomer Idaho was picked seventh by the coaches and eighth by the media.

Eastern opens the season at home on Nov. 14 against Texas Southern.

Jim Allen