College basketball officially kicks the 2005-06 campaign into high gear on Friday (Oct. 14) with the first practice of the season, but Big 12 Conference coaches put away their practice plans to take a shot at predicting how the league's race will shape up by season's end.

The verdict placed the conference bulls-eye squarely on the shoulders of the University of Texas. The Longhorns received 10-of-12 first-place votes and were the overwhelming favorite to win the Big 12 title. Oklahoma received the final two first-place votes and were chosen second overall.

The Missouri Tigers, led by returning starters Jason Horton, Jimmy McKinney and Kevin Young, along with super-sub Thomas Gardner, were picked eighth overall. The Tigers welcome back seven letterwinners from last season's postseason squad, including Gardner who is the top returning scorer at 10.4 ppg.

Following a week of practice, Head Coach Quin Snyder and the Tigers will host the annual Black & Gold Game on Friday, Oct. 21, at Mizzou Arena. Admission to the Black & Gold Game is free.

Big 12 Coaches Poll
# Team (1st place votes) Points

1. Texas (10) 120

2. Oklahoma (2) 112

3. Kansas 89

4. Oklahoma State 84

5. Texas Tech 80

6. Iowa State 70

7. Texas A&M 68

8. Missouri 48

9. Colorado 43

10. Nebraska 40

11. Kansas State 25

12. Baylor 13