As the 2024-25 season approaches, both the Fairmont State University men’s and women’s basketball teams are generating a significant buzz following their recent rankings in the Mountain East Conference (MEC) preseason polls. Announced during the MEC Basketball Media Day at WesBanco Arena, the Fairmont State men are ranked second, while the women have been voted the preseason favorite with the number one spot, setting the stage for a thrilling season.
The Fairmont State men’s basketball team has gained a lot of attention, coming in second in the MEC preseason poll with 87 points and one first-place vote. After a solid season last year with 21 wins and a trip to the MEC Championship quarterfinals, the Falcons are excited to keep that success going this year.
Head Coach Tim Koenig has fostered a competitive environment, and the Falcons will be aiming to challenge West Liberty, who topped the poll with 98 points and nine first-place votes. Charleston follows closely in third place with 81 points and one first-place vote, demonstrating the competitive landscape of the MEC this year.
The full preseason rankings for the men’s teams are as follows:
1. West Liberty (9 votes) – 99 points
2. Fairmont State (1 vote) – 87 points
3. Charleston (1 vote) – 81 points
4. West Virginia State – 72 points
5. Concord – 69 points
6. Glenville State – 56 points
7. Point Park – 44 points
8. Davis & Elkins – 37 points
9. Wheeling – 29 points
10. Frostburg State – 20 points
11. West Virginia Wesleyan – 11 points
The Falcons are looking to capitalize on their strong performance last season and aim for even greater success in the upcoming MEC Championship, which is scheduled to take place from March 5 to March 9.
On the women’s side, Fairmont State has been named the preseason favorite, reflecting their impressive track record. With a remarkable increase in their win totals over the past three seasons—going from 15 to 23 and then to 27—the Falcons captured the regular season MEC title and the tournament championship last year, along with an appearance in the NCAA tournament.
The preseason rankings for the women’s teams are as follows:
1. Fairmont State (10 votes) – 99 points
2. Frostburg State (1 vote) – 81 points
3. West Virginia State – 79 points
4. Charleston – 66 points
5. Concord – 56 points
6. Glenville State – 53 points
7. West Liberty – 47 points (tied)
8. Wheeling – 47 points (tied)
9. West Virginia Wesleyan – 40 points
10. Point Park – 25 points
11. Davis & Elkins – 11 points
Both Fairmont State basketball teams are set for exciting seasons ahead. With strong leadership, dedicated athletes, and a supportive fan base, the Falcons are ready to make their mark in the Mountain East Conference. Fans can look forward to thrilling games as the season progresses, leading up to the MEC Championships this March. As the teams prepare for their seasons, the excitement in the Fairmont State community is clear.
