There isn’t a definitive favorite this season. The landscape is open, with quite a few players standing out in different ways.
After an unforgettable Final Four where Houston stunningly took down the heavily favored Duke, college basketball has returned, brimming with championship hopefuls.
Florida, boasting a strong frontcourt, could potentially repeat last year’s success. Connecticut is aiming for its third title in four years. And then there are teams like Houston, Purdue, Kentucky, and Duke that pose significant threats.
Rick Pitino has infused new life into St. John’s, bringing in a top transfer class, and fans are excitedly dreaming of a Final Four appearance in Indianapolis.
This season’s roster shines with talent, featuring seasoned players like JT Toppin from Texas Tech and Braden Smith of Purdue, as well as exciting freshmen such as AJ Divanza from BYU, Kansas’ Darrin Peterson, and Duke’s Cameron Boozer.
Now, Zach Braziler takes a closer look with his preseason Top 25 rankings.
1. Houston
Could anyone really doubt Kelvin Sampson? He’s turned Houston into a yearly title contender, guiding the Cougars to six consecutive Sweet 16 finishes. With key players like Milos Uzan, Emmanuel Sharpe, and Josef Tugler, plus a standout recruiting class, they’re positioned for another deep run.
2. Purdue
Remember when Zach Eady, one of the tallest players in college hoops, led Purdue to the national championship game two seasons ago? This time around, it’s Braden Smith, a smaller yet incredibly skilled player, returning for his senior year after a great season as one of the top assist leaders. He’ll team up with high-scoring forward Trey Kaufman-Len and standout transfer Oscar Clough from South Dakota State.
3. Kentucky
Kentucky might have enough talent to field two competitive teams, which is quite telling about their depth. Keeping all those players satisfied will be a challenge for Mark Pope. With newcomers like strong defenders Cam Williams from Tulane and Muhamed Diubaté from Alabama, they’re looking to enhance their defense—especially after last year’s struggles. Plus, SEC Preseason Player of the Year Otega Oweh will be a dynamic presence on the court.
4. Connecticut
Storrs had a solid year last season with 24 wins but faced elimination early in the NCAA Tournament, prompting high expectations for this season. With a talented core of returning players, a promising freshman class, and some key transfers, they have the potential to score efficiently. The offensive capabilities with players like Solo Ball and Alex Karaban could truly shine, especially if their defense improves.
5. Michigan
Dusty May’s first year in Ann Arbor was remarkably successful, with 27 wins and a Sweet 16 appearance. This year, he has an even more talented roster, thanks in part to top transfers like Jaksel Lendeborg from UAB and playmaker Elliott Caddo from North Carolina State. Senior guard Roddy Gale Jr. could be primed for a standout year.
6. Duke
This has already been a magical year for Duke, especially after their close encounter with Houston in the national semifinals. With five players leaving for the draft and top prospect Cooper Flagg catching headlines, the Blue Devils are still a strong contender for the Final Four, bolstered by the likes of dynamic freshman Boozer and returning players like Malik Brown and Isiah Evans.
7. St. John’s
The Red Storm’s frontcourt, led by Zuby Ejiofor, could be among the best in college basketball. Recently added players like Ian Jackson from North Carolina and Ojiya Sellers from Stanford could strengthen their shooting. If they secure solid point guard play, including the potential of Dillon Mitchell, they could be a formidable team come April.
8. Florida
Florida is bringing back a talented trio from last year’s championship-winning squad, but they’ll need to tackle the challenge of replacing important backcourt contributions. Bronx transfers Boogie Frand and Xavien Lee will be crucial, especially given the departure of guard Denzel Aberdeen, who transferred to Kentucky.
9. Louisville
Pat Kelce has had a stellar spring, bringing in top-quality shooters like Ryan Conwell from Xavier and Isaac McNeely from Virginia, alongside promising freshman Mikel Brown Jr. The team will also see some fresh faces in the frontcourt with newcomers Sananda Fur and 7-footer Ali Khalifa.
10. Texas Tech University
JT Toppin and sophomore shooter Christian Anderson form a solid duo for the Red Raiders, who are looking to assert themselves as Final Four contenders this season with the recruits of playmaker Rujuan Watts and shot-blocker Luke Bumboy. Head coach Grant McCasland’s earlier success offers a promising forecast for this coming winter.
11. Arkansas
While Arkansas had a rocky start last season, they almost advanced to the Elite Eight. Much of that squad is back, plus five-star recruits Maryke Thomas and Darius Acuff Jr. and transfers Nick Pringle and Malik Ewin, which could really benefit the team this year.
12. BYU
BYU is turning heads, especially with the potential of their star AJ Divanza, who’s vying for a top NBA draft pick, alongside top transfer Robert Wright III and established shooter Richie Sanders. Keba Keita’s experience should also be a critical component up front.
13. Illinois
Illinois has embraced a rotating roster ethos, much like in professional leagues, with coach Brad Underwood bringing in Croatian twins Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivicic among other international talents. The highlight could be wing Andrei Stojakovic, who had an impressive last season at Cal.
14. UCLA
Arguably, the most significant addition for the Bruins is getting Donovan Dent, perceived as one of the best point guards in the league. Surrounded by a talented group, Dent hopes to reduce his turnovers and make a strong impact.
15. Kansas
Despite starting strong in previous seasons, Kansas has struggled in the NCAA Tournament. This year, the lessened spotlight might work in their favor. They have promising players like freshman Darrin Peterson and sophomore Florrie Vidunga, along with experienced transfers.
16. Arizona
No team seems to rely as heavily on freshmen as Arizona does. With key recruits like Core Peat and Brayden Burries, they need to fill the gaps left by last season’s leading scorers. Also, senior point guard Jayden Bradley could become a pivotal player.
17. Iowa
Coach TJ Otzelberger’s team possesses consistent strengths—a commendable defense and a standout guard. The Cyclones are among the best defensively, with Tamin Lipsey as a notable talent.
18. Alabama
Alabama’s guard duo of Aiden Holloway and LaBaron Fillon Jr. stands out, but the frontcourt is less certain. They optimistically rely on transfers like Noah Williamson and Taylor Bol-Bowen to solidify their lineup.
19. Tennessee
Point guard Jacobi Gillespie, a Maryland transfer, and top-five freshman Nate Ament are vital to Tennessee’s aspirations. Returning players like Felix Okpara and Jalen Carey will support their offensive efforts.
20. Auburn
With Bruce Pearl retiring and passing the reins to his son Stephen, some uncertainty looms. However, he has an elite lead guard in Tahad Pettiford and impactful transfers to support the transition. Keep an eye on Elijah Freeman; he’s attracting early NBA attention.
21. Michigan State
In a world of constant turnover, Michigan State has some stability. With key players returning from an Elite 8 team, they might have the opportunity for growth, especially for sophomore Jeremy Fears.
22. Creighton
Creighton has maintained a solid record under coach Greg McDermott, with 20 wins over the past decade. The new recruits, including Owen Freeman and Josh Dix, alongside experienced returners, position them to challenge rivals like St. John’s and Connecticut.
23. Gonzaga
Gonzaga received promising news with the return of reliable scorers Graham Icke and Braden Huff, plus explosive player Tyon Grant-Foster gaining additional eligibility. This experienced lineup should not be underestimated.
24. North Carolina
After a stretch at McNeese State, Will Wade is back in the ACC with NC State, quickly assembling a competitive roster through strong transfers and considerable talent.
25. North Carolina
Hubert Davis faces pressure after mixed results in recent years. His nearly completely new starting lineup features top-tier talents, including Arizona’s Henri Viesar and promising freshmen.
Predictions
Last 4: Kentucky, UCLA, Arkansas, Kansas State
Champion: Kentucky
