In the preseason, Northern Iowa was the conference favorite – returning all five starters and 9 of the top 10 players from their MVC championship team.
UNI received all but one first-place vote in the preseason poll of MVC coaches, media, and sports information directors.
The preseason player of the year was 2009 MVC conference tournament MVP Osiris Eldridge of Illinois State – who tested the NBA draft waters over the offseason.
Senior guard Dodie Dodson broke two bones in his forearm in Bradley's home opener against Idaho State.
[3] In another memorable opening games, Creighton hung tough at number 21 Dayton, but ultimately lost down the stretch 70–60.