WINONA LAKE, Ind. - Grace's men's basketball team received high praise to kick off the season from the NAIA.

The Lancers earned a No. 7 ranking in the preseason NAIA Top 25 Coaches' Poll.

The young squad has no seniors and graduated seven players from last year. But Grace boasts a wealth of returning talent and a reputation for postseason success.

The Lancers have made four consecutive NAIA national tournaments, reaching the Sweet Sixteen or deeper each time.

The Crossroads League had four teams in the poll, including No. 6 Indiana Wesleyan, No. 7 Grace, No. 16 Bethel as well as Spring Arbor, who is receiving votes in the poll.

Grace enjoyed an unofficial opener to the season, playing an exhibition at NCAA Div. I Colorado on Sunday.

The Lancers will start the year at home on Friday night. Grace will host Governors State at 7:30 p.m. at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center.

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