Horizon League Basketball: Youngstown State rises in latest power rankings

2. Oakland Golden Grizzlies – 7-4 (2-0)

Losses at Bowling Green and against Michigan State in the past week have dented the record for the Grizzlies but they still remain as a top-tier title threat in the Horizon League. Marquette transfer Jamal Cain is putting up All-American numbers at 21.0 ppg and 10.1 rpg for the season, while point guard Jalen Moore (14.7 ppg and 7.3 rpg) and freshman forward Trey Townsend (13.4 ppg and 6.1 rpg) have been great complementary pieces.

The biggest concern for Oakland entering league play is its lack of three-point shooting, ranking in the bottom-15 in the country at 27%. But with an elite frontcourt in Cain and Townsend, the shooting woes won’t be a fatal flaw. However, teams that can defend the Grizzlies inside will have a shot to beat them.

1. Cleveland State Vikings – 6-3 (2-0)

The Vikings are the one team in the conference that has yet to lose to an “inferior” opponent this season, with defeats to BYU, Ohio, and Oklahoma State in overtime. But they’ve beaten four other D-I opponents, including Wright State and Northern Kentucky at home, two preseason top-4 teams in the conference.

While Cleveland State has been known for its defense, the offense has been impressive. They have eight players averaging at least 5.0 ppg, led by D’Moi Hodge at 14.9 ppg. Torrey Patton is second with 11.9 ppg but is first in both rebounds (6.3 rpg) and assists (3.6 apg).

Although Oakland may have the best player, Wright State the best trio, and other teams such as Northern Kentucky and Youngstown State showing a threat, Cleveland State has done nothing to not remain the favorite to win the Horizon League this season.