The anticipation for the upcoming college basketball season is reaching a fever pitch as the preseason rankings for the 2025 campaign have officially been released. As expected, several traditional powerhouses find themselves at the top of the list, while a few rising programs have cracked the elite tier, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable seasons in recent memory.
Leading the pack is perennial juggernaut Kansas, which claims the No. 1 spot heading into the season. The Jayhawks return a strong core led by veteran leadership and have added one of the nation’s top recruiting classes, giving head coach Bill Self a deep and talented roster. After an early exit in last year’s NCAA Tournament, Kansas looks poised for redemption with championship aspirations firmly in view.
Right behind them at No. 2 is Duke, another blue-blood program that’s brimming with potential. Second-year head coach Jon Scheyer has found his rhythm on the recruiting trail, landing a pair of five-star prospects and retaining key contributors from last season’s Sweet 16 run. The Blue Devils’ mix of youth and experience makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the country.
At No. 3 is UConn, the defending national champion, who enters the season looking to become the first program to repeat since Florida in 2006–07. Despite losing a few stars to the NBA Draft, the Huskies return several vital pieces and add elite freshmen capable of making an immediate impact. Head coach Dan Hurley has built a tough, battle-tested culture that continues to thrive under pressure.
Rounding out the top five are Kentucky and Arizona. Kentucky, under John Calipari, is embracing a hybrid approach this year, blending top-tier freshmen with veteran transfers. It’s a shift in strategy for a coach long known for “one-and-done” talent, and early indications suggest the mix could pay off in a big way. Arizona, meanwhile, continues its ascent under Tommy Lloyd, boasting an up-tempo offense and a roster filled with international talent and experienced playmakers.
Other notable teams in the top ten include Michigan State, North Carolina, Baylor, Purdue, and Houston. Each brings its own strengths — whether it’s Purdue’s dominant frontcourt led by All-American Zach Edey, or Houston’s suffocating defense under Kelvin Sampson — and all are expected to contend in March.
Beyond the top tier, several programs are generating buzz as potential dark horses. Alabama, led by Nate Oats, remains a threat with their high-octane offense, while Creighton, Miami, and Texas have all reloaded with impactful transfers and experienced rosters. Saint Mary’s, Memphis, and Illinois also cracked the top 25, reflecting the growing depth and parity in college basketball.
The rankings also highlight some key storylines to watch:
- Freshmen Phenoms: Players like Cooper Flagg (Duke), Ace Bailey (Rutgers), and Dylan Harper (also Rutgers) are expected to dominate headlines. Their development will be crucial to their teams’ success and NBA draft stock.
- Transfer Portal Power: The influence of the transfer portal continues to reshape rosters overnight. Programs that adapted quickly — including Kansas, Texas A&M, and Arkansas — could see immediate results.
- Coaching Transitions: Several high-profile coaching changes are taking place this season. How programs like Louisville, Syracuse, and Washington State adjust will be telling.
- Conference Realignment Impact: With new conference dynamics set to affect travel, rivalries, and tournament seeding, this year’s regular season will be especially critical in determining momentum heading into March.
As preseason practices ramp up and exhibition games begin, fans across the country are eager to see how these rankings hold up once the ball is tipped. While rankings offer a snapshot of expectations, college basketball’s trademark chaos ensures that anything can happen once the season begins.
One thing is certain: with loaded rosters, elite coaching, and a slew of compelling narratives, the 2025 college basketball season is shaping up to be unforgettable. From buzzer-beaters to bracket-busters, the journey to the Final Four starts now — and these preseason rankings are only the beginning.
