Men's Basketball Slated 9th in RSC Preseason Poll

MIDDLETOWN, Oh. – The River States Conference released the 2025-26 Men's Basketball Preseason Poll. The Bearcats are slated to finish 9^th in the poll with a total of 41 points.

The Bearcats start where they left off at the conclusion of last season despite making it to the RSC Semifinals last season. BU ended the season 9-17 overall and 6-10 in conference following the semifinal loss to St. Mary-of-the-Woods.

Although losing six players, including five seniors from last season, the Bearcats retain nine players from last year's squad while adding seven newcomers.

Notable Returners:

• Linkin Lockhart (6'3 Guard): Appeared in every game for the Bearcats and started in 17. Mobile sharpshooter who averaged 11.6 PPG and 3.5 RPG.
• Xavi Tirado (6'6 Forward/Center): Appeared in 14 minutes for the Bearcats. Caught fire late in the season as a center.

Notable Newcomers:

• Israel Momodu (6'9 Senior): Transfer from Blue Mountain College where he played in 14 games. Retained a 36% FG% while averaging 4.9 RPG and 4.3 PPG.
• Braxton Highbaugh (6'4 Junior): Transfer from Kishwaukee College where he averaged 10.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists as a combo guard. Named to the All-Arrowhead Conference Team.
• Braden Waller (6'5 Forward): Freshman from Graves County High School. Crossed the 1,000 points and 500 rebounds mark. Ranked #57 power forward in the state of Kentucky as a senior.

The Bearcats start their season Sunday, Oct. 26 at Lindsey Wilson at 3pm.