Introduction to the 2025-26 College Basketball Season
The 2025-26 college basketball season is just around the corner, and the preseason Associated Press Top 25 poll has been released. Purdue has taken the top spot for the first time in program history, earning 35 of 61 first-place votes. The Boilermakers are followed closely by Houston, last year’s runner-up, and Florida, the reigning champion.
The Top Teams
Purdue’s ranking is a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. "We are obviously excited to get the season going and being ranked No. 1 in the preseason is a great indicator of what we feel this team can accomplish,” said Matt Painter, Purdue’s head coach. Houston, on the other hand, earned 16 first-place votes, matching the program’s best-ever preseason AP ranking. The Cougars are looking to build on last year’s success, which saw them make it to the national championship game.
Purdue’s Milestone
Purdue’s No. 1 ranking is a significant milestone for the program. The Boilermakers have never been ranked No. 1 in any AP poll before the 2021-22 season. This achievement is a credit to Painter, who has built a successful program in his 21st season as head coach. Purdue returns a first-team AP All-American in point guard Braden Smith, scoring leader Trey Kaufman-Renn, and veteran guard Fletcher Loyer.
The Top Tier
After Houston, Todd Golden’s Gators earned eight first-place votes to start the year with their highest preseason ranking since 2006-07. UConn is next at No. 4, earning the remaining two first-place votes. St. John’s is fifth, surpassing the program’s previous best ranking in a preseason AP poll. Duke, Michigan, BYU, Kentucky, and Texas Tech round out the top 10.
New Coaches and New Beginnings
It hasn’t taken long for Pat Kelsey to get Louisville back among the national elite, with the Cardinals checking in at No. 11. Louisville is one of five programs with a second-year coach in the preseason poll, joining Michigan, BYU, Kentucky, and No. 14 Arkansas. Auburn opens at No. 20 as it enters its first season since the unexpected retirement of coach Bruce Pearl.
Conference Watch
The Southeastern Conference, Big Ten, and Big 12 each have six ranked teams, making up 72% of the field. The Atlantic Coast Conference and Big East are next with three each, while the West Coast Conference has one with No. 21 Gonzaga. The Big 12 is the only league with three top-10 teams.
Teams to Watch
Will Wade’s arrival at N.C. State and subsequent roster shakeup has the Wolfpack as the first team outside the poll. Oregon is lurking close behind, entering its 16th year under Dana Altman. These teams are looking to make a statement in the upcoming season and could potentially break into the top 25.
Conclusion
The 2025-26 college basketball season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with Purdue, Houston, and Florida leading the pack. With new coaches, new beginnings, and teams looking to make a statement, this season is sure to be full of surprises. As the season gets underway, fans will be eagerly watching to see which teams will rise to the top and make a run for the championship.
