OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Mid-America Christian University Evangels came in a tied for fifth in the Sooner Athletic Conference Men's Basketball preseason coaches' poll, the organization released today (Oct. 20). 

St. Gregory's University, coming off an NAIA Final Four appearance, earned the top spot in the poll with five first-place votes.  Wayland Baptist University received two first-place votes and came in second, followed by Oklahoma Baptist University at third with one first-place vote.  

Oklahoma City University was fourth and also got a first-place tally, followed by MACU and SAGU in a tie for fifth.  SAGU received the other first-place nod. 

Texas Wesleyan University finished seventh, with John Brown University, USAO and Southwestern Christian University rounding out the poll. 

The Evangels return four starters, including second-team NAIA All-America performer Semar Farris, who also was named SAC Newcomer of the Year last season. 

This season will have a nostalgic feel to it, as legendary head coach Willie Holley has announced that his 42nd year at the helm will be his last.  Holley ranks second all-time in the NAIA in victories and is only 12 away from the 800 win plateau.  

The Evangels will host their annual Red/White scrimmage tomorrow night (Oct. 21) inside the Gaulke Activity Center following the completion of the MBB JV game, which is scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

MACU will then open the 2014-15 campaign at home next Thursday night (Oct. 30) against Oklahoma Christian University at 7 p.m.