Shepherd University has been selected to finish third in the 2026 PSAC East Preseason Poll, following the Kutztown Golden Bears who topped the poll for the third consecutive year. Kutztown, the reigning PSAC champions, secured six first-place votes, boasting a potent offense that led the PSAC in scoring and rushing. East Stroudsburg ranks second, returning a solid offense and defense, while Shepherd looks to build on a seven-game winning streak and key returning All-PSAC East players.

By the Numbers
  • Kutztown averaged 42.9 points per game, leading the PSAC in scoring.
  • Shepherd ended the previous season with a seven-game winning streak.
State of Play
  • Kutztown has eight returning offensive starters from a championship team.
  • East Stroudsburg scored 32.8 points per game, returning seven offensive starters.
What's Next

As the season approaches, Shepherd will leverage its returning talent to challenge for higher standings in a competitive conference, with early games likely critical for establishing momentum.

Bottom Line

Shepherd's third-place ranking reflects a promising outlook for the season, but to contend for the championship, they must capitalize on their returning talent and build on last season's success.