UPDATE: The highly anticipated preseason Top 25 for the 2025-26 college basketball season has just been released, with the Purdue Boilermakers securing the No. 1 spot. With only weeks left until the season tips off on November 3, 2025, fans are eager to see how the rankings shake up ahead of the action.
The Purdue Boilermakers, led by Wooden Award favorite Braden Smith, have retained their top position from last season. They return a formidable lineup, including All-American Trey Kaufman-Renn and other key starters from their Sweet 16 team, bringing both depth and experience. However, their path to a national championship hinges on improving their previously weak defense, which ranked lowest in two-point defense within the Big Ten last season.
Following closely are the Florida Gators at No. 2. Coach Todd Golden has revamped their backcourt with impactful transfers Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee, joining an already strong frontcourt featuring potential first-rounders Alex Condon and Thomas Haugh. The Gators aim for back-to-back championships, a feat that seems attainable with their new talent.
The Houston Cougars remain a powerhouse at No. 3, despite their devastating loss in last season’s title game. Under the guidance of coach Kelvin Sampson, they bring back three starters, including projected first-round picks Milos Uzan and Joseph Tugler, supplemented by a top-notch recruiting class featuring three top-25 recruits.
At No. 4, the UConn Huskies have reloaded, reestablishing themselves as title contenders. Coach Dan Hurley has secured strong transfers and All-American candidates, making their projected lineup one to watch closely.
Rounding out the top five are the St. John’s Red Storm, who are under the leadership of coach Rick Pitino. With a successful transfer strategy, the team aims to defend its Big East title after a massive turnaround last season, showcasing a mix of returning talent and fresh recruits.
As the season approaches, the excitement around college basketball is palpable. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for any updates as teams prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating season.
The rankings reflect the current state of college basketball, where rosters are constantly evolving due to transfers and player developments. With only weeks until the season opener, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these teams perform on the court.
What’s Next: Keep an eye on how these rankings influence gameplay as the season unfolds. Will Purdue maintain its dominance, or will another team rise to the occasion? The countdown to November 3 has officially begun, and the urgency to witness these developments is undeniable.
