The AP Top 25 men's college basketball rankings are out, and it's time to dive into the details!
The Battle for the Top Spot:
The Associated Press' preseason poll has Purdue claiming the top position, and rightfully so. With over 50% of the first-place votes, the Boilermakers are poised for a remarkable season. Led by the consensus returning First Team All-American, Braden Smith, and the 20 points per game scorer Trey Kaufman-Renn, Purdue aims to dominate. But here's where it gets interesting: their frontcourt, a previous weakness, is now fortified with a healthy Daniel Jacobsen and the addition of transfer center Oscar Cluff.
A Potential Braggin' Rights Blockbuster:
Fast forward to December 22, and we might witness a historic moment in the Illinois-Missouri rivalry. If both teams remain ranked, their annual clash in St. Louis will be a rare treat. Ranked matchups in this rivalry are scarce, with only nine occurrences, the last being in 2012. But with experienced squads and strategic reinforcements, could this season's game reignite the tradition?
Conference Supremacy: A Shifting Landscape:
Last season, the SEC reigned supreme with 14 out of 16 teams making the NCAA tournament. But the 2025-26 season promises a more balanced battle. The Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC each boast six teams in the top 25, while the Big East and ACC follow with three each. The WCC's Gonzaga is a notable mention, but preseason rankings don't always translate to postseason success. Remember, Florida, the reigning champs, started at No. 21 last year, while preseason No. 1 Kansas didn't make the final rankings.
The News-Gazette's very own Scott Richey, an AP Top 25 voter, has shared his insights. But the real question is, do you agree with his rankings? Which teams do you think will rise or fall as the season unfolds? The court is open for discussion!
