The Youngstown State men's basketball team was picked seventh in the Horizon League Preseason Poll, the conference announced on Tuesday.

The Penguins finished 15-12 overall in 2020-21 and went 8-10 in Horizon League play. YSU beat UIC in the first round of postseason play before dropping an overtime contest at Oakland.

The 2021-22 conference schedule returns to its normal formart this year. 

YSU returns three starters from last season's squad. Garrett Covington, Michael Akuchie and Shemar Rathan-Mayes combined to start 74 games in 2020-21. Myles Hunter came on strong starting 12 contests for YSU last year as well. Other returnees include Alex Vargo, Will Dunn and Daniel Ogoro. Senior forward Jamir Thomas returns after missing the 2020-21 campaign with a knee injury.

The Guins added five transfers to the program this offseason. Seniors Tevin Olison and Collen Gurley and juniors Dwayne Cohill, Chris Shelton and Owen Long have all joined the program.

Youngstown State opens the 2021-22 season on Nov. 10 at Penn State. The Penguins play their first home game on Friday, Nov. 19 against St. Thomas (Minn.).

For news and updates throughout the season, follow @YSUMensHoops on Twitter.

The full preseason poll and players recognition list is below.

2021-22 #HLMBB Preseason Poll Results
1. Cleveland State (30) – 502
2. Wright State (9) – 463
3. Northern Kentucky (1) – 406
4. Milwaukee (2) – 396
5. Detroit Mercy (2) – 350
6. Oakland – 340
7. Youngstown State – 214
8. UIC – 204
9. Purdue Fort Wayne – 169
10. RMU – 157
11. Green Bay – 146
12. IUPUI - 85