MEAC Women’s Basketball Preseason Poll: Norfolk State and Howard Tied for First Place

Norfolk State Women’s Basketball Team Faces Uncertainty Despite Strong Season

Norfolk State’s women’s basketball team had an impressive 2023-24 regular season, finishing with a 13-1 MEAC record and winning the conference tournament to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. With returning stars like All-MEAC guard Kierra Wheeler and conference player of the year Diamond Johnson, the Spartans seemed poised for another successful season.

However, when the MEAC preseason poll was released, Norfolk State found themselves tied with Howard for first-place points at 117 apiece. This surprising turn of events left many questioning why the defending champions were not considered the clear favorite to win the title again.

Coppin State was predicted to finish third, with Morgan State and Maryland Eastern Shore following closely behind. Despite Norfolk State’s recent dominance in the conference, the voters could not come to a consensus on who should be the frontrunner this season.

The decision to tie Norfolk State and Howard for first place points raised eyebrows, especially since Norfolk State has been the team to beat in the MEAC for the past two seasons. The lack of a definitive choice in the preseason poll has left fans and analysts scratching their heads.

While Howard did give Norfolk State a run for their money last season, splitting the series and coming close in the championship game, the decision to not name a clear favorite has left many feeling unsatisfied.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Norfolk State and Howard as they battle it out on the court to prove who truly deserves the top spot in the MEAC. The uncertainty surrounding the preseason poll only adds to the anticipation for what promises to be an exciting season of women’s college basketball.