This has been a season of historical proportions for the Chattanooga Mocs. There’s the first 10-game win streak since 1996-97. Then you have the first 8-0 Southern Conference start since 1984-85. While the Mocs connect with their rich tradition on the hardwood, the 2013-14 squad has found a first.
Chattanooga is No. 25 in this week’s CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major Top 25. It’s the first time in school history it has been listed in this poll.
“I am pleased for our players,” Head Coach Will Wade said. “They’ve bought in, worked hard and played for each other which has positioned us to be in this poll.
“While I am proud they are getting the recognition they deserve, we still have a lot of work to do,” he continued. “This is not the end goal, but it is a sign that Chattanooga basketball is moving in a positive direction.”
The CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major Top 25 is voted on by 31 mid-major coaches from across the country. Wichita State is the consensus No. 1 pick followed by Gonzaga, Toledo, Green Bay and Harvard rounding out the top five.
Being ranked is not new for the Mocs, but is not a common occurrence. The program ended the 1982-83 season ranked No. 15 in the AP Top 20 after defeating North Carolina State and narrowly missing a trip to the Sweet 16 in a second round loss to Minnesota.
Chattanooga hits the road this week for one game before returning to McKenzie Arena next Saturday night. It’s at Davidson on Thursday, and then hosts Furman two nights later with both games featuring 7 p.m., start times.
The games can be listened to live on ESPN 105.1 FM the Zone in the Scenic City, or go to the men’s basketball schedule page on GoMocs.com for links to video (PPV), audio (free) and live stats. You can follow @GoMocsMBB on twitter for live updates as well.