Looking at all the returning pieces and newcomers, it looks like the Mountain West Conference might be ready to snatch back the title of best “mid-major” conference in the country.
But who will lead the charge, with so many players and programs to choose from? See below, in our MWC Preseason Preview
MWC Champion: San Diego State Aztecs
When you have the conference’s best defense, you give yourself a shot to win on every single night, regardless of venue. That’s why the Aztecs are the favorites in 2015-2016, as they’ve also added just enough offense to make themselves truly dangerous again.
MWC Runner-up: Boise State Broncos
Perhaps the best offensive team in the conference, the Broncos will absolutely challenge the Aztecs for MWC supremacy. Keep an eye out for Anthony Drmic, who missed the vast majority of last season due to injury. His absence allowed others to emerge, but he’s back and ready.
MWC Dark Horse: Fresno State Bulldogs
As you’ll see in the next category, Rodney Terry has the conference’s best weapon to play around with. The Bulldogs finally have depth, and it should equal a run into the NCAA Tournament if everything goes according to plan.
MWC Player of the Year: Marvelle Harris, Fresno State
He can score. He can dish. He can defend. Harris is the most dangerous player with the ball in his hands that this conference has to offer. He has a chance to put up video game numbers this season.
MWC Defensive Player of the Year: Winston Shepard, SDSU
When a player can defend all five positions, and he anchors the conference’s best defense, it shouldn’t be much of a discussion for this kind of award.
MWC Rookie of the Year: Stephen Zimmerman, UNLV
He’s the most celebrated recruit that the conference adds this season, and one has to think that Dave Rice will run his offense through the post and utilize Zimmerman’s immense skill set. One has to think, that is.
MWC Coach of the Year: Steve Fisher, SDSU
We really should be past having to justify heaping praise on Fisher, but he’s the head coach of my preseason favorite. So, sue me.
