The NAIA recognized three MCC schools in the Men's Basketball Coaches' Preseason Top 25, released today by the national office, and two more in the receiving votes section.

Coming off a final four appearance at the 2008-09 NAIA national tournament and a 33-4 record, Bethel tops the grouping at No. 3 with 364 points. The defending MCC champions open the 2009-10 season at Indiana University South Bend on Nov. 10.

Indiana Wesleyan marched all the way to the elight eight of the national tournament last year and were recognized at No. 9 with 298 points. The Wildcats tied Bethel for the regular season conference championship last season with a 29-7 overall record and open up against Purdue Calumet on Nov. 6.

With 98 points Saint Francis is tied with the University of Souix Falls (S.D) at No. 23. The Cougars finished last season 17-14 and open the 2009-10 season hosting their own tournament on Nov. 6-7.

Huntington is five spots outside the top 25 with 27 total points. The Foresters finished last season 20-12 and tip off against Indiana Tech on Nov. 4.

Spring Arbor also tallied a vote after a 21-11 record last season. The Cougars open in the Jamieson-Allen Agency Tip-Off Tournament this weekend.

Defending national champion Oklahoma Wesleyan received 13 of the 15 first place votes for 404 points and the No. 1 spot in the poll.