VCU SLOTTED 10TH IN CAA PRESEASON POLL
October 26, 2005

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – Virginia Commonwealth University was picked 10th in the Colonial Athletic Association’s Preseason Women’s Basketball Poll, released in conjunction with the league’s media day Wednesday at the Wachovia Center.

The poll consists of votes from the league’s head coaches, media and sports information directors.

Third-year coach Beth Cunningham’s team returns two starters and seven letterwinners from last season’s 11-18 squad, which finished eighth in the league at 6-12 mark.

Old Dominion was the overwhelming favorite to win its 15th consecutive CAA title. The Monarchs were followed by James Madison, Drexel, Delaware and Hofstra. Filling out spots 6-9 were Towson, George Mason, Georgia State and Northeastern. UNC Wilmington and William & Mary followed VCU in 11th and 12th places, respectively.

The Rams open the 2005-06 season with a pair of exhibitions, Nov. 10th against Virginia Union, and Nov. 14th against Team Concept. The Black and Gold begin the regular season Nov. 18 at Loyola (Md.).

2005-06 CAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH

1. Old Dominion
2. James Madison
3. Drexel
4. Delaware
5. Hofstra
6. Towson
7. George Mason
8. Georgia State
9. Northeastern
10. VCU
11. UNC Wilmington
12. William & Mary