As the Big Ten Conference gears up for the 2025–26 men’s basketball season, teams are being evaluated and ranked based on returning talent, incoming transfers, coaching changes, and overall program momentum. Here’s a tiered breakdown reflecting the current landscape:
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🏆 Tier 1: National Title Contenders
1. Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue enters the season as a consensus top contender, returning nearly 70% of its minutes from a team that reached the Sweet 16. Key players include Braden Smith, Trey Kaufman-Renn, and Fletcher Loyer. The addition of South Dakota State transfer Oscar Cluff, who averaged 17.6 PPG and 12.3 RPG last season, bolsters their frontcourt.
2. Michigan Wolverines
Under second-year head coach Dusty May, Michigan has reloaded impressively. The return of Yaxel Lendeborg, who opted out of the NBA Draft, along with transfers Elliot Cadeau (North Carolina) and Morez Johnson Jr. (Illinois), positions the Wolverines as formidable contenders.
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🏅 Tier 2: Strong NCAA Tournament Teams
3. Michigan State Spartans
Coming off a 30–7 season and an Elite Eight appearance, the Spartans, led by veteran coach Tom Izzo, return key contributors like Jase Richardson and Jaden Akins. Their experience and depth make them a strong tournament team.
4. UCLA Bruins
Despite a challenging previous season, UCLA looks to rebound with a mix of returning talent and new additions. Players like Dylan Andrews and Aday Mara, along with transfers Dominick Harris and Skyy Clark, aim to elevate the Bruins’ performance in their second Big Ten season.
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🧭 Tier 3: NCAA Bubble Teams
5. Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois faces some roster turnover but retains a competitive edge. The development of returning players and integration of new talent will be crucial for their tournament aspirations.
6. Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin’s consistent program culture and potential for offensive improvements position them as a bubble team with upside.
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🔄 Tier 4: Rebuilding Programs
7. Indiana Hoosiers
With the hiring of Darian DeVries as head coach, Indiana embarks on a new era. The transition period may come with growing pains as the team adapts to new systems and personnel.
8. Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa also enters a rebuilding phase under new head coach Ben McCollum. Establishing a new identity and integrating fresh talent will be the focus this season.
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🛠️ Tier 5: Developmental Stage
9. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State faces a significant overhaul with the departure of key players like Ace Baldwin and Zach Hicks. The team’s performance will largely depend on the development of returning players and the impact of new recruits.
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This tiered outlook provides a snapshot of the Big Ten’s competitive landscape heading into the summer. As offseason developments continue, including player transfers
