Mars Hill looks to build momentum in 2025–26 after being picked 12th in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll. The Lions return core contributors and several new additions focused on taking the next step in conference play.

Emory & Henry enters its fourth year in the South Atlantic Conference looking to climb the standings after being picked 11th in the 2025–26 preseason coaches’ poll. The Wasps finished 6-23 last year but return a mix of veterans and newcomers ready to push the program forward.

A new era begins for Coker men’s basketball under head coach Nick Pasqua, as the Cobras aim to build momentum in 2025–26. Picked 10th in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll, Coker brings in multiple impact transfers ready to elevate the program.

Tusculum looks to reassert itself as one of the SAC’s toughest matchups after being selected ninth in the preseason coaches’ poll. The Pioneers return key talent and a proven scorer to guide their 2025–26 campaign.

Newberry enters the 2025–26 season aiming to convert competitive flashes into consistent results. The Wolves, picked eighth in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll, bring back multiple contributors who understand the grind of league play.

Wingate starts the 2025–26 campaign with renewed ambition after being picked seventh in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll. The Bulldogs went 12-15 overall and 11-13 in league play last season but return a backcourt with proven production.

UVA Wise enters 2025–26 poised to take another leap after its best SAC finish since joining the conference. Picked sixth in the preseason poll, the Cavaliers bring back both production and purpose under head coach Blake Mellinger.

Catawba continues to build momentum under head coach Rob Perron as the program enters its fifth NCAA postseason era in seven years. The Indians were picked fifth in the 2025–26 SAC preseason coaches’ poll after finishing 18-13 overall and reaching the conference semifinals.

Carson-Newman begins the 2025–26 season with its sights set firmly on another postseason run after being picked fourth in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll. The Eagles finished 21-12 overall a year ago, blending offensive firepower with consistency on the boards.

For Lincoln Memorial, change comes with the same familiar goal — winning. The Railsplitters enter the 2025–26 season tied for second in the SAC preseason poll, again among the league’s most respected programs.

Anderson heads into the 2025–26 season with momentum and expectation, landing second in the SAC preseason coaches’ poll. The Trojans, who finished 16-13 overall last season, return a strong core and carry legitimate hopes of challenging for the top spot.

Expectations are high again in Hickory as Lenoir-Rhyne opens the 2025–26 season as the South Atlantic Conference favorite. The Bears earned the top spot in the preseason coaches’ poll after a 29-6 campaign that included SAC Tournament and Southeast Region titles.

The College of Charleston enters the 2025-26 season with momentum after a strong showing in the Coastal Athletic Association and recognition across the league.

Charleston’s 2025-26 schedule is filled with challenges and opportunities that will test the Cougars early and often.

College of Charleston men's basketball enters the 2025-26 season looking to extend the success of last year’s 24-9 campaign, which included a 13-5 mark in the Coastal Athletic Association.