The Ohio Northern men's basketball team has been picked to finish fifth in the 2016-17 Ohio Athletic Conference coaches poll, voted on by league coaches. 

Northern received 50 points in the poll and is seeking its second consecutive upper division finish under first-year head coach Rich Bensman.

John Carroll and Marietta were selected to finish tied for first in the conference with 77 points and five first place votes each, while the Baldwin Wallace was picked to finish third with 60 points.

Bensman returns six players with starting experience and looks to build on a 9-9 record in the OAC a year ago.

The Polar Bears will open the 2016-17 season Nov. 15 as they travel to Alma (Mich.) to take on the Scots at 8 p.m.