In both polls sophomore guard Kelly Mazzante, who led the conference last season in scoring with 18.2 points per game, was voted the preseason player of the year and named to the Preseason All-Big Ten team.
She had to share the coaches' player of the year honors with Wisconsin forward Jessie Stomski.
"If that's what happens it happens," Mazzante said. "I'm going to work hard everyday, I'm going to try to get better everyday and I'm just going to take it one day at a time."
Michigan coac Sue Guevara said, "I think it's a respect our program has been yearning for. But just because you get it you still have to keep it and you still have to earn it."
Guevara also addressed the key position change of Alayne Ingram, who is moving from shooting guard to the point.
Ingram is only six three-pointers away from setting a school record, but said she would rather set the single season assist record if that is what it takes for her team to win.
Not to be overlooked is Purdue, who lost last season's NCAA title game after capturing the Big Ten title. The Boilermakers lost six letter winners but are confident because of the play of guard Kelly Komara and forward Shereka Wright. The strong backcourt is important for Purdue because of its lack of strength at center, with only one on the roster in oft-injured Mary Jo Noon.
"We'll work to our strengths," Purdue coach Kristy Curry said. "A small lineup at times can be very hard to defend. We're going to have mismatches night in and night out and its going to be taking advantage of yours more than they can."
While Purdue topped the rankings, there was a buzz about other teams in the league, particularly Wisconsin and Iowa.
Wisconsin is lead by seniors Stomski, guard Kyle Black and swingman Tamara Moore. Last season, Stomski averaged 16.2 points while pulling down 8.1 rebounds per game as Moore crept ever closer to the school record for steals and Black became a dangerous three-point threat.
Iowa is another team that will rely on established seniors to lead its chase for the Big Ten crown. Guards Leah Manger and Lindsey Merder, who was named to both All-Big Ten teams, will anchor a back court that is looking to build on its 25 points per game average.
What coaches stressed most was how wide open the conference is this season.
"There are key players that have been lost by every team," Guevara said. "There is no clear cut favorite. It'll come down to who can stay injury free...Whoever can maintain the level of intensity through the Big Ten will succeed."
