UPDATE: The latest AP Top 25 poll reveals shocking shifts as teams gear up for intense competition in January 2026. Nebraska surges from No. 13 to No. 10, while Michigan State plummets from No. 9 to No. 12 following their recent losses. The poll reflects major developments in the college basketball landscape as teams strive for supremacy.
As of January 3, 2026, the top 10 teams remain largely unchanged, with Houston and Gonzaga swapping spots. Notable entries include SMU and UCF, who made their way into the rankings after impressive victories over North Carolina and Kansas, respectively. This shake-up is critical as teams prepare for the upcoming matchups.
The Nebraska Cornhuskers, now boasting a perfect 14-0 record, achieved a historic win against Michigan State, marking their first home victory in an AP-ranked matchup since 1991. Their current 18-game win streak is the longest in Division I and the longest in program history. The Cornhuskers will face Ohio State next on Monday at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Meanwhile, Michigan State’s fall is significant. After a disappointing defeat against Nebraska, they are now 12-2 for the season. The Spartans’ next chance to rebound comes on Monday against USC at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The Kansas Jayhawks also faced setbacks, dropping out of the top 10. With a record of 10-4, they suffered a recent loss to UCF and will look to regain momentum against TCU on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET.
In other notable rankings, Arizona remains at No. 1 with a flawless 14-0 record, while the Michigan Wolverines hold steady at No. 2, also undefeated at 13-0. Iowa State follows closely, tied for the best start in program history with their 14-0 record.
UConn holds the No. 4 position, boasting a 14-1 record and a current win streak of 10 games, showcasing their strength as they prepare to face Providence on Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET.
Fans can expect thrilling action as teams like Duke and Purdue continue to vie for the top spots. Duke, currently at No. 6 with a 13-1 record, will take on Louisville on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET, while Purdue, sitting at No. 5, faces Washington on the same day at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The stakes are high as teams prepare for their upcoming games, and fans are encouraged to tune in to witness the unfolding drama of college basketball. With each game carrying significant weight, every matchup is crucial for the teams involved.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses, with additional polls and rankings expected in the coming weeks. The excitement is palpable as teams fight for position in this tightly contested season.
