There will be rankings galore coming out prior to the start of the season, and it starts with the all important top 25. For stats, you’ll see them in the form of points/rebounds/assists per game, FYI. Enjoy!
#1. Houston Cougars
Team MVP: Joseph Tugler (5.5/5.9/0.9 with 0.9 steals and 2.0 blocks)
Tugler was one of the best defenders in the country last year, and with his unbelievable frame and athleticism, he’ll likely win the national defensive player of the year award this season.
Underrated Key To Success: Kingston Flemings (5 star freshman)
There aren’t any truly “underrated” pieces to this team, but if Fleming can be a strong second ball handler and scorer for the Cougars behind Uzan, they should feel very comfortable about the number of guys who can get buckets.
My Season Prediction: 1 seed, National Champions
They are the best team in the country. Kelvin Sampson should finally get the championship he deserves.
#2. Purdue Boilermakers
Team MVP: Braden Smith (16.0/4.5/8.5 with 2.2 steals)
Braden Smith is the second best player in all of college basketball in my opinion, as the most dynamic playmaker on the floor at all times. I expect him to be even better this year as a passer, now that he has better weapons around him.
Underrated Key To Success: CJ Cox (6.0/2.8/0.7)
Cox was what seemed to be a small pickup, who as a recruit was mainly recruited by Ivies other than Matt Painter. However, in his freshman season last year, he rose his way all the way up to the starting lineup, Despite there being more options this season, I still expect him to make a step up, possibly even into double digits.
My Season Prediction: 1 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
I think this team will do well in the regular season, but I just have a feeling that they’ll fall short in March.
#3. Florida Gators
Team MVP: Alex Condon (10.6/7.5/2.2 with 0.9 steals and 1.3 blocks)
Condon is one of the most versatile players in college basketball, and he needs to take an offensive step for this Florida team to reach its potential.
Underrated Key To Success: AJ Brown (13.2/3.2/1.1 @ Ohio)
An effective offensive player at Ohio, AJ Brown playing well off the bench at the SEC level will be important for the Gators, who have uncertain guard and wing depth.
My Season Prediction: 4 seed, Loss in Round of 32
I know I’m low on their outcome, but I just can’t get my head around Xavien Lee and Boogie Fland coexisting as guards, and they don’t have great backups there.
#4. Duke Blue Devils
Team MVP: Cameron Boozer (5 star freshman)
In Duke’s preseason scrimmage against UCF, Boozer had 33 points and 12 rebounds. As a true freshman.. in his first ever collegiate game… So, yes, he is the real deal. He should be on Cooper Flagg levels of productivity, so don’t be surprised when you keep hearing his name.
Underrated Key To Success: Cayden Boozer (5 star freshman)
The other Boozer should also be vital to the success of this team. They need a point guard, and it has become clear that Caleb Foster doesn’t exactly have what it takes to be the starter. This means Boozer will have to step up, and how he responds to the challenge will likely determine the Blue Devils season.
My Season Prediction: 2 seed, Loss in Elite 8
This team doesn’t scream “FINAL FOUR” to me, as I have some strong questions about the effectiveness of the guards, but they have the talent and depth to be a great team.
#5. St John’s Red Storm
Team MVP: Zuby Ejiofor (14.4/8.0/1.7 with 0.9 steals and 1.4 blocks)
Zuby is a dominant interior presence, who began to try and expand his offensive game last year, and if he can continue to develop it, he could be one of the best players in the country this year. Especially on a team with many newcomers, his impact will be crucial for Rick Pitino.
Underrated Key To Success: Bryce Hopkins (15.5/8.6/1.4 in 23-24 @ Providence)
If Hopkins has healed well from the injury that took him down early last year, he will be the difference maker for this team, and in my opinion, the best player. Hopkins is an All-American at his best, and his emergence would confirm a strong season.
My Season Prediction: 1 seed, Loss in Final Four
If anyone can make the newcomers work, it’s Rick Pitino. As long as these guys mesh, they have the talent and shooting that was lacking last year to have a strong season. I just don’t think they will have quite enough when they need it in March.
#6. BYU Cougars
Team MVP: AJ Dybansta (5 star freshman)
AJ is a player with tons of preseason hype, who BYU paid big $$ for. Will he live up to the hype? Most likely, however for this team to reach their peak, he needs to show his talent not only on offense but on defense as well as a committed defender. You will see highlights nonetheless, however.
Underrated Key To Success: Dawson Baker (7.6/1.9/1.3)
A returner from last season, Baker is an important depth piece to this team as a guard, and his ability to run the offense effectively, playing off of their scorers, will help this team when Rob Wright (their starting point guard) is off the court.
My Season Prediction: 3 seed, Loss in Final Four
This team has all the talent, and I believe in Kevin Young in his second year as a collegiate head coach, that despite some possible growing pains, this team can win in the tournament, but not quite the championship.
#7. Louisville Cardinals
Team MVP: Ryan Conwell (16.5/2.7/2.5 with 1.3 steals @ Xavier)
There are a few guys who could be in this role at the end of the season, but I think that Conwell, with his level of experience and multi-level playmaking, will be the leader. He is a dynamite shooter and a constant threat on the court who will put the country on notice this season.
Underrated Key To Success: J’Vonne Hadley (12.2/7.3/1.8)
Despite the fact that I think his counting stats may decrease this season, I think that Louisville’s returning leader is a crucial part of this years team, with a bunch of new pieces that need to mesh on and off the court.
My Season Prediction: 1 seed, National Runner-Up
As you read in my most recent post, I am a big fan of this team. While there is definitely some uncertainty in how the pieces will fit, I just see too much talent to fail here, with guys who play a role and are very good at it, rather than other teams who took lots of talent, but the guys don’t fit together in a clear way (at least to me!).
#8. UConn Huskies
Team MVP: Silas Demary Jr. (13.4/4.0/3.1 with 1.7 steals @ Georgia)
I’m going to say this first: I don’t really have much faith in this team being able to compete with a lot of these other top teams, but Hurley seems to always find a way. Demary is my favorite player on the squad. He is a creative player who gets to his spots and is a solid passer. Hurley should be able to maximize his impact in a way it wasn’t on a funky Georgia team last year.
Underrated Key To Success: Eric Reibe (4 star freshman)
I think that Tarris Reed is very effective when he’s on the court, but he fouls a lot, so they need to have a solid backup. The 7’1 Reibe is hoping to be just that, as a big who can stretch the floor and make good passes. His emergence would give me a lot more faith in the Huskies.
My Season Prediction: 2 seed, Loss in Round of 32
UConn is good… I’m just not sure that they’re great. I think they’ll lose to some really good teams they play, but beat all the teams worse than them, which is most of the Big East, leading to a 2 seed for a team that I think won’t go far.
#9. Michigan Wolverines
Team MVP: Yaxel Lendeborg (17.8/11.2/4.3 with 1.8 steals and 1.8 blocks @ UAB)
Lendeborg was the top transfer in the country for a reason. He is a do it all type of player, who should thrive like Danny Wolf in the Dusty May system, and alongside other talented bigs and good shooters. He scored 31 in their scrimmage, by the way.
Underrated Key To Success: Trey McKenney (4 star freshman)
Despite the returners at the wing, I just like McKenney more. I was never a fan of either of their wings, Roddy Gayle or Nimari Burnett, last year and that hasn’t changed. McKenney making an impact in his freshman year would be huge for the Wolverines.
My Season Prediction: 3 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
I like Dusty May as a coach, but I’m not 100% sold on the talent he brought in. I’ve never been a Cadeau fan, and I’m not going to start believing now, but he can be a good passers if the bigs are what they are, but both Morez Johnson and Aday Mara still haven’t blossomed in my eyes. If they do, maybe I’ll eat this one.
#10. Kentucky Wildcats
Team MVP: Otega Oweh (16.3/4.7/1.7 with 1.6 steals)
Oweh broke out as the leader of the Wildcats last season, and returned to lead Mark Pope’s team once again. Oweh is a physical scorer who can beat his defender off the dribble and finish through contact. He will likely lead this team in scoring again.
Underrated Key To Success: Jasper Johnson (4 star freshman)
After an impressive scrimmage performance against Purdue, Jasper put the college basketball world on notice as the next great freshman guard at Kentucky. With the other talent they have, we will see how much he plays, but expect him to make an impact when he’s out there.
My Season Prediction: 2 seed, Loss in Elite 8
This team is good, but I don’t think they have the cohesive pieces to beat the premier teams consistently, which one has to do to win in March. If Jayden Quantaince is who people keep saying he will be, maybe their defense will be good enough, but that is yet to be seen.
#11. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Team MVP: JT Toppin (18.2/9.3/1.2 with 0.8 steals and 1.5 blocks)
Toppin is the best player in the country. He was dominant last year, and don’t be surprised when he’s even more dominant this year as his shot continues to develop. This guy gets buckets.
Underrated Key To Success: Luke Bamgboye (3.8/3.3/0.5 with 2.2 blocks @ VCU)
This team will be at its best when Toppin is at the 4, so that makes Bambgoye all the more important to their success. He was great as a freshman at VCU, and he does all the things Texas Tech wants out of their 5, protect the rim and finish in the paint.
My Season Prediction: 4 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
While I really like this team, I can see them having trouble playing certain types of teams, and I think they’ll likely run into one at some point in the tournament. The potential for a team with JT Toppin is winning it all though!
#12. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Team MVP: Graham Ike (17.3/7.3/1.4)
After two straight strong seasons at Gonzaga while falling short in the tournament, Ike is returning for his final season, giving it one last shot. He has established himself as a dominant interior scorer, and he will continue to prove that this year.
Underrated Key To Success: Mario Saint-Supery (International recruit from Spain)
After a very successful summer in the international u21 tournaments, he has risen up in the preseason chatter. He is a great shooter who is smart and does a great job finding his spots. Expect him to grow throughout the season and have some pretty impressive shooting nights.
My Season Prediction: 4 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
This team will be solid. Likely will lose to the great teams they play in non conference, but will win consistently in conference, and make the sweet 16 as they always do.
#13. UCLA Bruins
Team MVP: Donovan Dent (20.4/2.3/6.4 with 1.4 steals and 0.9 blocks @ New Mexico)
Donovan Dent has been known to be a rising star in college basketball, and last year he really proved it with a great season, despite New Mexico having a little less team success than before. Now at the power level, I have no doubts he can put together another strong season, just possibly with more assists rather than points.
Underrated Key To Success: Trent Perry (3.6/1.7/0.7)
Perry didn’t have a particularly large role as a freshman, but his talent was seen in flashes. He should step into more usage this season, in which I expect him to succeed as a crafty scorer off the bench.
My Season Prediction: 6 seed, Loss in Round of 32
While this team is solid, I think they’re one of the more likely teams to underperform in the top 25, as I don’t have much faith in their bigs, particularly Xavier Booker, the former 5 start from Michigan State. This is especially important for them as they’re in the Big 10, which always has some physical interior presences, and this year is no different.
#14. Arizona Wildcats
Team MVP: Jaden Bradley (12.0/3.4/3.7 with 1.8 steals)
Bradley was an elite role player for the Wildcats last year, providing an offensive spark and pretty consistently hitting double figures by the end of the year. Now, as a leader of a younger team, he should step up into a 15+ ppg scorer, especially at the beginning of the year when the freshman are still developing.
Underrated Key To Success: Koa Peat (5 star freshman)
I never expected to be saying the Koa Peat is underrated. The former #1 recruit has somewhat fallen under the radar in the past year despite still being very talented. His physicality and athleticism will make him very valuable for Arizona, and if his shot can fall consistently, this team could be pretty darn good.
My Season Prediction: 4 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
My opinion on this team has changed a lot throughout the offseason, but the freshman have grown on me. Both of their top recruits strike me as guys who can handle the college game well and are consistent performers, which is what they need. Despite that, I don’t think this team has quite enough to compete with the top of the top, plus they don’t have a confirmed top-dog, which could be problematic come March.
#15. Illinois Fightin’ Illini
Team MVP: Tomislav Ivisic (12.8/7.7/2.2 with 1.1 blocks)
After an impressive freshman season, Ivisic will be looking to lead a talented Illinois team, now joined by his twin brother, Zvonomir. He is a playmaker and good shooter who can get down and dirty in the post, so he’ll always find a way to keep impacting the game.
Underrated Key To Success: Keaton Wagler (4 star freshman)
Wagler wasn’t a super sought after recruit, but there has been tons of positive word about him coming out of Illinois, and his exhibition performances have confirmed that. Expect him to make a larger impact than expected off the bench.
My Season Prediction: 3 seed, Loss in Elite 8
This team has a lot of European talent. It may take some time to operate smoothly, but the talent will come through, making them a threat throughout the tournament, but I think they just aren’t quite going to be a top 4 team.
#16. Iowa State Cyclones
Team MVP: Joshua Jefferson (12.9/7.4/3.2 with 2.1 steals and 0.8 blocks).
Joshua Jefferson is built for collegiate success with his large frame and nice touch and feel for the game. He was great in his first season with the Cyclones, and after they had a lot of production leave, he will likely play an even larger role this season.
Underrated Key To Success: Dominick Nelson (14.4/5.2/1.7 @ Utah Valley)
Iowa State lost almost all of their guard production after last season, and Nelson’s dynamic scoring attack will be invaluable off the bench, where they might struggle to find others who can consistently be positive contributors.
My Season Prediction: 6 seed, Loss in Round of 32
I am a fan of TJ Otzelberger, but I am not at all convinced by this roster. While they have the returning leaders they need, the newcomers I am overall kind of low about, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this team really disappoints. A lot of that is due to their UVA transfer Blake Buchanan at center, who will be starting for them despite VERY poor play last year in my opinion. Maybe TJ has a plan though..
#17. Alabama Crimson Tide
Team MVP: Labaron Philon (10.4/3.3/3.8 with 1.3 steals)
After deciding to return to Alabama at the last second, Philon raised the ceiling for the Tide back to national title contender. Expect him to be one of the best players in the SEC this year, and lead the Tide to what they hope is a successful season.
Underrated Key To Success: Houston Mallette (14.7/3.2/2.4 @ Pepperdine in 23-24)
After sitting last season outside of a few small moments because they already had so much guard depth, Mallette is ready to make an impact for the Tide, and he will do just that. He is a great shooter who should fit very well in this system, especially after a year practicing with them.
My Season Prediction: 3 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
I’m not convinced enough in this teams ability to score for a Nate Oats team, since I know that defense won’t be a priority for them. In the end, I think that’s what’ll get them, playing a team like Houston who has a super strong defense.
#18. Kansas Jayhawks
Team MVP: Darryn Peterson (5 star freshman)
I am fairly confident that Peterson will be the #1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, and he will prove that throughout the college basketball season by leading the Jayhawks with his elite shooting and playmaking. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s an All-American.
Underrated Key To Success: Tre White (10.5/5.5/0.8)
After a solid season at Illinois last year, I expect White’s usage to uptick a little bit, especially if he can improve his outside shot. He had a nice frame and good basketball IQ, which should make him valuable to Bill Self.
My Season Prediction: 5 seed, Loss in Round of 32
This team is.. fine. They’ll have some big wins but also some tough losses, and they’ll make the tournament, but won’t go too far. Peterson and big man Flory Bidunga raise the floor to a pretty solid team, but the ceiling is still limited with their depth.
#19. San Diego State Aztecs
Team MVP: Magoon Gwath (8.5/5.2/0.7 with 2.6 blocks)
Magoon had a hectic offseason, entering the transfer portal and being almost confirmed to go to Kentucky, he changed his mind at the last second and returned for the Aztecs, a huge win for them. While his game is still developing, the potential was seen very clearly last season, where he was an elite shotmaker and shot blocker; two very important skills.
Underrated Key To Success: BJ Davis (9.0/3.0/1.2 with 1.5 steals)
BJ Davis was a productive contributor last season, and his consistency is key for the defensive-focused Aztecs this season. He is a spectacular defender who, when on, is a great two way point guard to lead them.
My Season Prediction: 6 seed, Loss in Round of 32
While I like this team a lot, not everyone can win in the tournament, and I think with a slightly worse strength of schedule, SDSU will get unlucky and hit a pretty tough matchup in the second round. However, the ceiling for this team could be an Elite 8 appearance…
#20 Tennessee Volunteers
Team MVP: Jakobi Gillespie (14.6/2.8/5.0 with 1.9 steals @ Maryland)
The prized transfer for Rick Barnes, Gillespie was a dynamite scorer at Maryland last season, and should play an even larger role on this Tennessee team. His shooting ability should create space for their interior players, and his defensive ability will be well utilized by Rick Barnes.
Underrated Key To Success: Jaylen Carey (8.2/5.8/0.8 @ Vanderbilt)
I may be a bigger Carey fan then most, but despite the fact that he doesn’t have a great jumper, he is an effective interior scorer, and I’m hoping the shot will start to come through this season. Expect the Vols to utilize his physicality on both ends, banging on the interior with their other shot blocking bigs.
My Season Prediction: 5 seed, Loss in Round of 64
Sorry Tennessee… I had to choose one team to be upset. I think the reason they’ll be upset in the tournament is the same reason they’ll have other struggles this season, Nate Ament. While the potential is very high for the 5 star freshman, his game just doesn’t feel all the way there yet. His shot selection is very poor, and he doesn’t quite know how to use his frame yet. His volume could hurt the Vols a lot when he’s off, which could even be in the first round.
#21 Arkansas Razorbacks
Team MVP: Darius Acuff (5 star freshman)
Acuff will be the next great freshman guard under Coach Cal. He is a crafty playmaker who can distribute the rock while also being a good shooter and crafty finisher. I expect him to be the best freshman in the SEC and one of the best freshman in the country, averaging around 15 points and hopefully over 5 assists a game.
Underrated Key To Success: Meleek Thomas (5 star freshman)
Another top recruit I have as underrated, I know. However, this one makes sense (I think). Thomas is projected to come off the bench for the Razorbacks as they have lots of returning production, however, I am pretty confident he might be starting by the end of the year. He is an athletic finisher and strong shooter, who has played very well in each of Arkansas’s preseason exhibition games.
My Season Prediction: 5 seed, Loss in Round of 32
While I think the freshman are good, I’m not 100% convinced about the other guards and wings, despite some solid interior play. Also, I’m not exactly the biggest fan of Coach Cal. There are a lot of teams ahead of them that I just can’t see them beating, especially in the tourney.
#22 Vanderbilt Commodores
Team MVP: Devin McGlockton (10.3/7.9/1.0 with 0.8 steals and 1.1 blocks)
McGlockton is an impactful player. That’s genuinely the best way to describe his play. He is always involved, whether it’s grabbing boards or scoring, he was there last season when the Commodores needed him. Expect him to score even more this season as a returner rather than a transfer.
Underrated Key To Success: Tyler Harris (11.8/5.0/0.4 with .9 steals & 1.1 blocks @UW)
Harris definitely is still developing as a player, but his length and shooting are absolutely elite, and will make him an extremely valuable piece off the bench for Byington. Harris shot 49.5% from three last year on 3 attempts per game. Yes, you read that right. Sniper.
My Season Prediction: 6 seed, Loss in Round of 32
I like this team a lot actually, but I’m not sure they have an alpha offensive player, and not every team can win, so despite a fairly successful season with a 6 seed, they may fall earlier in the tournament. This team, if all clicks well, has the grittiness necessary to make a run though, especially if their shooters are hot!
#23. Virginia Cavaliers
Team MVP: Thjis De Ridder (International Recruit)
Despite possibly not being the most impressive player on the stat sheet for the Cavaliers, De Ridder’s ability to impact every aspect of the game with his physical frame and basketball IQ will be invaluable for Ryan Odom’s squad this year. He’s been playing grown men in the 3rd best league in the world, so he should have no problem in the ACC.
Underrated Key To Success: Jacari White (17.1/4.3/2.3 @ North Dakota State)
Jacari was an electric playmaker at NDSU who shot 40% from three despite taking 7 a game. Expect his shooting ability to be used well by the Hoos this year, and whether he is a starter or a 6th man, he will be an offensive spark plug for this team.
My Season Prediction: 5 seed, Loss in Sweet 16
The possible outcomes for UVA are wide and far between. It is a new coach in a new place with a lot of new players, but I am cautiously optimistic about the way they’ll all fit. I expect this team to continue improving throughout the season and hopefully hit their stride in March.
#24. NC State Wolfpack
Team MVP: Darrion Williams (14.8/5.5/3.7 with 1.2 steals @ Texas Tech)
Williams really came into his own last season with big time performances down the stretch. He is an impressive scorer who uses his body effectively and will likely take an even larger role offensively this year at NC State.
Underrated Key To Success: Paul McNeil Jr. (4.2/1.3/0.8)
Despite the coaching change, Paul McNeil stayed, and both sides are better off for it. Will Wade will use him well as a sniper for the Wolfpack this year, and he will play a key role in the function of their offense, stretching defenses to create space inside.
My Season Prediction: 7 seed, Loss in Round of 32
This team should be pretty good, and I believe in Will Wade as a coach after some impressive seasons at McNeese. However, I’m not quite sure they have the total scoring talent to make it very far in the tournament.
#25. Iowa Hawkeyes
Team MVP: Bennett Stirtz (19.2/4.3/5.6 with 2.1 steals @ Drake)
Stirtz is one of the best players in the country in McCollum’s system, so he made the smart decision to follow his coach from Drake to Iowa, where he will show the country even further how good of a playmaker he is.
Underrated Key To Success: Cooper Koch (4.6/2.1/0/8)
Koch didn’t do much as a freshman, but I’m bought in on his sophomore jump under new coaching. He is a great shooter who will be given ample opportunities to shoot this season, expect him at 40% from three scoring around 10 points a game.
My Season Prediction: 7 seed, Loss in Round of 32
I had a lot of teams on my mind at #25, but decided to give it to Iowa as a nod to Ben McCollum and my belief in him as a coach. He was elite last season at Drake, and I find his system fascinating. This teams talent ceiling isn’t super high, but they will be good.
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