NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — For the second time this year, Bethel Basketball has been ranked in the national coaches' poll.
The Bethel Threshers earned a No. 25 national ranking while climbing to No. 9 in the latest RPI polls, cementing the program as one of the top teams in the country. Bethel is currently riding a seven-game winning streak and is undefeated in 2026.
The Ratings Percentage Index (RPI), one of college basketball's most respected metrics, evaluates teams based on winning percentage, strength of schedule, and opponent success. Sitting ninth nationally is a powerful indicator of the Threshers' complete body of work and highlights the level at which Bethel has competed all season long.
Head Coach Jayson Artaz emphasized that the rankings are a reflection of the process and the people behind it.
"This is a good measure of what our season has been to this point," said Coach Artaz. "I am really proud of our players and coaches and all the effort they put in. This isn't the end goal, but we are happy to continue to improve ourselves."
Along with the national recognition, Bethel has positioned itself firmly in control of second place in the conference standings, holding sole possession as the season enters a critical stretch. Much of that success has been fueled by the play of Carmelo Yakubu, who continues to put together an elite season. Yakubu is averaging 16.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game and has emerged as one of the most impactful players in the NAIA.
Yakubu's play has earned him a spot on the Bevo Francis Award Watch List, an honor reserved for the top small-college players across the country outside of NCAA Division I. The award recognizes athletes who excel at the highest level of competition in their respective divisions, and Yakubu's consistent production, physical presence, and leadership have firmly placed him in the national conversation as he builds a strong case for All-American recognition.
Bethel looks to extend its winning streak this Saturday at Ottawa at 4 p.m. before returning home the following Wednesday to face Friends at 8 p.m.
