HICKORY, N.C. - Lenoir-Rhyne is ranked at seventh-place in the first NPI Southeast Region rankings. Out of the top-seven, the Bears are the third-highest squad out of the SAC––with Carson-Newman ranked fifth, and Anderson at third. Emmanuel of the Conference Carolinas sits just above the Bears––less than one-point above Lenoir-Rhyne.

The Bears are off to a 13-6 (11-4 in conference play) start, with a pair of wins in the Southeast Region top-ten, both against Wingate. 

Lenoir-Rhyne is no stranger to NCAA Tournament play. Last season's success produced a trip to the NCAA Second Round after defeating Lander in the tournament opener. The Bears have appeared in the last three NCAA Tournaments, and have made punched a ticket to the dance six times since 2014.

Lenoir-Rhyne will be on the road this week, with SAC matches against Catawba on Tuesday, Lincoln Memorial on Friday, and Carson-Newman Saturday at noon.

The Bears' final three home games will hold major regional implications, as Lenoir-Rhyne hosts Tusculum (ranked tenth in the Southeast) on the 27th, Carson-Newman (ranked fifth) on November 3rd, and Lincoln Memorial (ranked 17th) on the 6th. 

SOUTHEAST REGION NPI RANKINGS (thru October 18th):
1. Flagler
2. Anderson (SC)
3. USC Aiken
4. Francis Marion
5. Carson-Newman
6. Emmanuel (GA)
7. Lenoir-Rhyne
8. UNC Pembroke
9. Wingate
10. Tusculum