College Women: Montana is unanimous pick in Big Sky

For the fifth consecutive year, Montana has been predicted to win the Big Sky title. Montana tallied the maximum 36 points to finish six points ahead of Idaho State in the 2001 Big Sky preseason coaches poll. The Grizzlies earned six first place votes, while Idaho State earned one first place vote to finish with 30 points. Sacramento State secured third place in the voting with 22 points, edging out last yearÆs runner-up Northern Arizona, which recorded 21 points to finish fourth in the balloting. Weber State finished with 19 points, followed by Eastern Washington (11), and Portland State (8). Montana returns seven starters from last season squad, which captured the Big Sky Championship and advanced to the NCAA tournament before falling to Washington in the second round. Preseason Poll: 1. Montana 36 points; 2. Idaho State 30; 3. Sacramento 22; 4. Northern Arizona 21; 5. Weber State 19; 6. Eastern Washington 11; 7. Portland State 8.