ESPN Releases First Edition of “Way-Too-Early” Top 25 Rankings for the 2025-26 College Basketball Season
As college basketball fans eagerly await the upcoming season, ESPN has kicked off its “Way-Too-Early” rankings for the 2025-26 campaign. These rankings, designed to give a glimpse into the potential powerhouses for next year, come as teams are already gearing up for the offseason. Despite it being over a year before the season begins, these early projections spark conversation about which programs are poised to contend for national championships.
Leading the pack is the Houston Cougars, who have solidified their place at the top of ESPN’s rankings. The Cougars’ impressive season in 2024-25, which included a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, was powered by their elite defense and solid depth. Head coach Kelvin Sampson has continued to build a program that thrives on toughness and discipline, making them an early favorite for the 2025-26 season. Houston’s expected returners and incoming talent only enhance their status as one of the most formidable teams in the nation.
Following Houston at number two is the defending champion, Kansas Jayhawks. Under the leadership of coach Bill Self, Kansas has established itself as a perennial contender, with consistent success at both the Big 12 and national levels. The Jayhawks’ roster is expected to feature a mixture of returning talent and top-tier recruits, which should keep them in the hunt for another title in 2025-26.
Kentucky, which has seen some ups and downs over the past few seasons, comes in at number six in ESPN’s rankings. Head coach John Calipari’s program is looking to bounce back after a somewhat disappointing 2024-25 season. However, Kentucky’s early ranking is fueled by an influx of talent, including key players from the transfer portal and a highly touted recruiting class. Among the new faces is 5-star forward Jayden Quaintance, who will add significant depth to the Wildcats’ frontcourt, alongside fellow transfer Mouhamed Dioubate, a standout from the 2024 class. Calipari’s ability to bring in top recruits and transfers will be crucial as Kentucky looks to get back to the top of the SEC and the national spotlight.
Other SEC teams are also well represented in the rankings. Arkansas comes in at number seven, thanks to an influx of talent and returning players. The Razorbacks’ commitment to defense and high-paced offense has made them a team to watch in the coming years. Alabama, which has experienced a renaissance under head coach Nate Oats, ranks eleventh, while Auburn rounds out the top 12. The continued growth of these SEC programs is a testament to the conference’s increased competitiveness.
Nationally, Louisville secures the third spot, which reflects their resurgence after a few down seasons. The Cardinals have been steadily improving under their current coaching staff, and they’re set to return key contributors along with high-level recruits.
While the rankings are still far from definitive, they provide a snapshot of the teams and storylines to follow in the lead-up to the 2025-26 season. As rosters continue to evolve with transfers, recruiting, and development, the rankings will undoubtedly shift, but for now, Houston, Kansas, and a revitalized Kentucky program lead the way in what promises to be another exciting college basketball season.
With many teams still in the process of reloading, the “Way-Too-Early” Top 25 offers an intriguing early look into the future of college basketball. Fans and analysts alike can expect plenty of movement as the offseason unfolds, but for now, these rankings set the stage for what should be a thrilling 2025-26 season.
