The 2025-26 men’s college basketball season is officially underway, and after the first week of play, the Power 37 rankings have been updated, showcasing the early frontrunners and notable performances.
Leading the pack is Purdue, retaining its top position thanks to the strong performance of Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer, who are establishing themselves as one of the premier backcourts in the nation. However, a challenging road game against Alabama lies ahead.
Following closely is Houston, demonstrating its defensive prowess by preventing both of its opening opponents from scoring even 60 points. Arizona has made a significant leap from previous rankings, rising to third after a standout victory over Florida, the reigning champions, thanks to freshman sensation Koa Peat.
Alabama has made headlines with an eye-catching road win against St. John’s, signaling its potential in SEC title discussions. UConn maintains a strong footing at fifth, bolstered by the return of a healthy Tarris Reed.
Duke’s Cameron Boozer has emerged as a powerhouse for the Blue Devils, while Michigan faces a tough upcoming road test against TCU, raising expectations for their Final Four ambitions.
Kentucky remains consistent, both offensively and defensively, managing to keep their opponents below 60 points. Texas Tech’s JT Toppin shone in his season debut with an impressive 31 points and 14 rebounds, drawing attention to the Red Raiders’ capabilities.
St. John’s, despite a setback against Alabama, displayed a high-scoring offense, with a focus needed on tightening their defensive strategies moving forward. BYU has showcased depth and offensive explosiveness, promising challenges for every opponent this season.
Florida, after their loss to Arizona, is searching for a defining late-game player, while Louisville prepares for a significant matchup against Kentucky that could elevate their standing.
North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson garnered attention with a substantial victory over Kansas, signaling his impact for the Tar Heels this season. UCLA looked more cohesive against Pepperdine, with a critical matchup against Arizona on the horizon.
Michigan State rebounded after a shaky exhibition against UConn, securing a win over Arkansas, while Indiana is gaining momentum with a formidable trio leading their campaign. Meanwhile, Arkansas retains excitement with promising freshman talent.
Tennessee’s Nate Ament has emerged as a central figure, positioning the Volunteers well in the competitive SEC landscape. Illinois quietly makes its case as a team to watch, while Wisconsin’s John Blackwell and Nick Boyd are poised to challenge opponents consistently.
Iowa State is establishing itself as a formidable adversary, while Gonzaga’s solid win over Oklahoma enhances their standing ahead of an upcoming match against Arizona State. Auburn’s forthcoming duel with Houston will test their mettle early in the season.
Georgetown celebrated a rivalry win against Maryland, giving them a solid start. Kansas faced a tough loss at North Carolina but remains competitive under Bill Self’s leadership.
Creighton is on the mend and showing potential with a strong offensive output anticipated, while Ohio State’s Bruce Thornton is establishing himself as an early candidate for all-Big Ten honors.
NC State’s high-scoring average positions them as a team to watch, while Missouri’s Mark Mitchell is poised for a breakout season. Kansas State’s PJ Haggerty consistently contributes, indicated by his recent performance against Bellarmine.
Iowa’s Bennett Stirtz is making a strong impression with his scoring abilities, while Oregon faces challenges as they seek to regain their form with Jackson Shelstad’s anticipated return. Baylor emerged as a sleeper in the Big 12 with an undefeated start, and Ole Miss’s AJ Storr has found his rhythm, averaging 18.5 points.
Finally, Utah State’s early-season victory over VCU adds to their mystique, while Nebraska has emerged as a sleeper in the Big Ten with Rienk Mast’s standout triple-double against FIU, suggesting that the Huskers may be contenders as the season progresses.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matchups and emerging talents that could define the landscape of college basketball this year.