Villanova named No. 1 in Big East preseason coaches’ poll

For the fourth straight year, the Villanova Wildcats are ranked No. 1 in the Big East Conference’s preseason coaches’ poll.

The defending Big East regular season and tournament champions are atop the conference rankings once again.

Since conference realignment, the Wildcats have compiled a 63-9 regular season record against Big East foes. They will be going for an unprecedented fifth title this season. Villanova received eight first-place votes.

Right behind the ‘Cats are the Seton Hall Pirates, who have earned their highest preseason Big East ranking since the 2000-01 season. The Pirates received one first-place vote and are seated right behind Villanova.

Rounding up the top three, and coming off of an Elite Eight run, is Xavier. The Musketeers also received a single first-place vote. With two-time All-Big East First Team selection Trevon Bluiett back in action, the Musketeers will look to contend for the top spot.

The complete Big East preseason coaches’ poll results:

1. Villanova
2. Seton Hall
3. Xavier
4. Providence
5. Creighton
6. St. John’s
7. Marquette
8. Butler
9. Georgetown
10. DePaul