UPDATE: The final preseason top 25 rankings for college basketball have just been announced, with the Purdue Boilermakers securing the coveted No. 1 spot as the 2025-26 season rapidly approaches. With only three weeks until the season tips off on November 3, 2025, excitement is building among fans and players alike.
The rankings, released earlier today, reflect significant changes since last season. The Florida Gators and Houston Cougars also remain near the top, but the Boilermakers’ blend of returning talent and depth sets them apart. Matt Painter’s squad features returning star Braden Smith, a leading contender for the Wooden Award, alongside All-American Trey Kaufman-Renn.
Purdue, which finished last season with a remarkable offensive efficiency, must improve its defensive game. They ranked last in the Big Ten for 2-point defense last season, a critical focus as they aim for their first national championship.
Here’s how the top five looks as of now:
- Purdue Boilermakers
- Florida Gators
- Houston Cougars
- UConn Huskies
- St. John’s Red Storm
The Gators, holding the No. 2 position, are not far behind. Coach Todd Golden has revamped the backcourt with high-impact transfers Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee, complementing a strong returning frontcourt featuring potential first-round draft picks.
Meanwhile, the Cougars, who were last season’s national runners-up, look poised for another deep run, returning three starters and welcoming a stellar recruiting class, including two top-25 recruits. This combination keeps them firmly in the title conversation.
In the fourth spot, UConn aims to bounce back after a less dominant season, bolstered by standout transfers and a strong returning core. The St. John’s Red Storm, finishing fifth, boasts an elite transfer class under the guidance of Rick Pitino, aiming to defend their Big East championship.
As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see whether the Boilermakers can capitalize on their pre-season hype and whether the Gators can achieve back-to-back titles. With the season just around the corner, teams are under pressure to finalize their rosters and strategies.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season kicks off and teams solidify their standings in what promises to be another thrilling year of college basketball. The countdown to tipoff is officially on!