Illinois Wesleyan opens the 2026-27 men’s basketball season ranked No. 6 nationally after reaching the NCAA Division III Elite Eight last year. The Titans return seven of their top 10 scorers and face a demanding schedule that includes several ranked opponents.

By the Numbers
  • IWU earned 430 points in the preseason poll.
  • The Titans went 26-5 last season and reached the Elite Eight.
  • Seven of the team’s top 10 scorers return.
  • The 2026-27 schedule features five nationally ranked teams and seven more receiving votes.
State of Play
  • Defending national champion Mary Washington tops the poll; CCIW rival Elmhurst is No. 13.
  • IWU opens against Yeshiva on Nov. 14 and could next face No. 12 Trinity (Texas).
  • CCIW play begins Dec. 2 at Elmhurst, followed by games against No. 24 Chicago, No. 10 WashU and No. 4 Emory.
Bottom Line

IWU’s high ranking reflects both last season’s postseason run and a strong returning core—but the Titans will be tested early and often against a challenging slate.