BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) tipped off the 2025–26 women's basketball season on Tuesday morning by unveiling its preseason poll, all-conference teams, and individual award winners during the league's annual media day. While Southern University earned the preseason favorite nod, all eyes in Tallahassee are on a determined Florida A&M squad hungry to outperform expectations and make waves across the conference.

FAMU Eyes Major Leap Under Strong Leadership
Florida A&M was picked eighth in the preseason poll, but that ranking hardly tells the full story. The Rattlers enter the new season with renewed energy, a maturing roster, and a culture built around accountability and toughness.

"We know where people think we'll finish — and we're using that as fuel," said FAMU head coach Bridgette Gordon. "This group has the talent, the work ethic, and the heart to change the narrative."

Respect Earned, Not Given
The preseason poll placed Florida A&M eighth with 111 points, just behind Bethune-Cookman (119) and Alcorn State (164). The top five featured Southern (265), Alabama A&M (224), Jackson State (213), Texas Southern (202), and Grambling State (186).

But for FAMU, the number next to its name isn't a reflection of its ceiling — it's motivation. The Rattlers are well aware of the parity in the SWAC and understand how quickly the standings can shift once the season tips off.

Conference Honors and Key Storylines
Alabama A&M's Kalia Walker was named Preseason Player of the Year, while Bethune-Cookman's Daimoni Dorsey earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. Both players headline an experienced group of all-conference honorees across the league.

Still, with FAMU's growing momentum and renewed confidence, the Rattlers are aiming to develop their own stars — players who will demand attention by midseason and put FAMU back in the SWAC spotlight where it belongs.

A Season of Opportunity
With a chip on their shoulder and a commitment to outworking opponents, the Rattlers are ready to rise. The 2025–26 campaign offers the perfect opportunity for Florida A&M to make a statement, turn heads across the conference, and remind everyone that the Orange and Green tradition of excellence extends beyond the classroom — it thrives on the hardwood.