Preseason Honors Set the Stage for BIG EAST Competition
The BIG EAST Conference on Thursday revealed its 2026 preseason awards, naming Akron as the Midwest Division favorite and Georgetown as the East Division frontrunner. The announcements come as the league prepares for a season that will kick off on August 20, with conference play slated to begin on September 19.
Akron enters the new campaign riding a strong 2025 finish that saw the team post a 13‑5‑3 record, accumulate 66 points and earn 11 first‑place votes in the Midwest Division. The Zips advanced to the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the program’s upward trajectory and setting high expectations for the upcoming year.
Akron’s Midwest Dominance
The Zips’ preseason poll reflects more than just reputation; it is a testament to a season that combined solid defensive organization with an attacking surge that produced seven goals from forward Remi Agunbiade. His performances earned him a spot on the 2026 Preseason All‑BIG EAST Team, alongside senior midfielder Matt Dreas, who brings a second‑team United Soccer Coaches All‑East Region pedigree to the lineup.
Agunbiade’s accolades extend beyond the conference honor. The junior forward was selected 58th overall in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft by San Diego FC and was twice named to TopDrawerSoccer.com’s National Team of the Week earlier in the year. His 20‑match stint for Akron featured seven goals and two assists, numbers that helped the team secure a top spot in the division.
Georgetown’s East Leadership
In the East Division, Georgetown received the most preseason recognition, capturing 66 points and 11 first‑place votes. The Hoyas will field three preseason All‑BIG EAST selections, a tally matched only by Akron, Providence and Seton Hall, each of which contributed two honorees to the 12‑player All‑BIG EAST Team.
The conference’s preseason selections highlight a blend of experience and emerging talent. While Akron’s duo of Agunbiade and Dreas represent the Midwest’s core, Georgetown’s multiple honorees signal depth across the East, promising competitive matchups when conference play begins in September.
With the season opener looming on August 20, fans can anticipate a narrative built around Akron’s quest to translate preseason promise into postseason success, and Georgetown’s attempt to capitalize on its East Division dominance. The awards serve as both validation and a catalyst for the teams poised to lead their respective divisions.