San Diego State University (SDSU) women’s basketball team has made an impressive debut in the preseason Associated Press (AP) poll, securing the 17th position. This ranking reflects a two-spot improvement from last year and marks the second-highest opening poll ranking in the team’s history.
The poll, based on the votes of sports journalists, saw SDSU appear on 55 of the 63 ballots. Notably, Dave Reardon, a well-respected sports writer, ranked SDSU at an impressive No. 9, signifying the team’s potential. One voter also placed them at No. 10, cementing their position among the top college basketball teams.
Coach Brian Dutcher, expressing his confidence in the team, highlighted SDSU as a power conference team, irrespective of the conference they belong to. This statement reflects the team’s determination to make their mark, regardless of the challenges they may face.
While the University of Kansas secured the top spot in the AP poll, followed by Duke, Purdue, Michigan State, and Marquette, SDSU displayed their strength by convincingly defeating Florida Atlantic in the Final Four. Their remarkable performance in that game, along with the majority of last year’s roster returning, contributed to their high preseason ranking.
Despite their impressive ranking, SDSU faces tough competition from two other teams from the West: Gonzaga and Arizona, who are currently ranked ahead of them. This just adds to SDSU’s motivation as they aim to prove themselves against formidable opponents.
SDSU’s nonconference schedule also looks challenging, featuring highly anticipated games against Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s. These matchups will provide a true test of the team’s skills and serve as an opportunity to solidify their position among the nation’s elite.
Preseason projections from Kenpom.com place SDSU at No. 29 overall, with an anticipated record of 21-8. The website also ranks SDSU’s offense as the 50th best and their defense as the 12th best in the nation. Similarly, Bart Torvik’s T-rank metric rates SDSU at No. 23 in his preseason computer ratings.
With an impressive preseason ranking and a promising lineup, SDSU’s women’s basketball team is poised for a successful season. The team’s determination and talent will undoubtedly make them a force to be reckoned with in the coming months.
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