ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)- The Mountain West released its preseason poll for women’s basketball Wednesday. The University of New Mexico Lobos got one first place vote and is picked to finish 6th.

It’s the first year for head coach Mike Bradbury who came to New Mexico from Wright State.

“First of all I don’t know much about the league,” said Bradbury. “And second I am not real interested in what other people think of us. So, I don’t think we need any extra motivation.”

Reigning champion Colorado State was picked to defend their regular season title for a third straight year.

Bradbury has brought a run and gun style to the Lobos. It is a favorite of the Lobos top returning scorer. Cherise Beynon averaged over 12 points per game last season and is a preseason all-conference selection. Joining Beynon with a preseason honor is Mykeil Burleson who was named Freshman of the Year. The Lobos will open the season with an exhibition game against Ft. Lewis Tuesday.

2016-17 Mountain West Women’s Basketball Preseason Poll

     Rank            Team (1^st-place votes)                   Points

         1.            Colorado State (17)                          283

         2.            Boise State (11)                              271

         3.            Fresno State                                    225

         4.            UNLV                                              201

         5.            San José State                                 197

         6.            New Mexico (1)                               176

         7.            San Diego State                               126

         8.            Wyoming                                         123

         9.            Utah State                                         97

       10.            Nevada                                             66

       11.            Air Force                                           28