Missouri State didn't have high expectations going into its first season under Dana Ford.
When the Bears competed for a Missouri Valley Conference championship up until the last day of the regular season, it was all a welcome surprise.
This year, on the other hand, the Bears had expectations.
Ford went and recruited what appeared to be the most talented roster in the conference. Even before he added a few pieces who play routinely today, the Bears were likely going to be picked to win the league.