College Basketball Rankings: Who Will Make the AP Top 25 as We Head into 2025?
As we approach the end of 2024 and gear up for the new year, college basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the first official AP Poll rankings of 2025. With the season already underway, the field of contenders for a spot in the prestigious Top 25 is taking shape, and there are plenty of exciting teams poised to make a jump in the rankings. Let’s take a look at the key storylines and teams that could dominate the AP Poll as we flip the calendar to 2025.
Rising Powers and Expected Standouts
Several teams are expected to remain near the top of the AP Poll as 2024 turns to 2025. Defending national champion UConn has maintained its high level of play, with Coach Dan Hurley leading a talented squad filled with both returning stars and impressive newcomers. The Huskies will certainly be a top contender for the #1 spot in the rankings.
Another team to watch is Kansas, which has been a perennial powerhouse under Bill Self. The Jayhawks have a strong roster that includes some of the best players in the country, and they’ll look to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament after a solid start to the season.
Duke and Michigan State are also expected to maintain their positions among the top teams in the country. Both programs are known for developing NBA-level talent, and their early performances suggest they could be near the top when the AP Poll is released.
New Blood Breaking Through
While the usual suspects like Kansas, Duke, and UConn are expected to be contenders, there are always a few surprise teams that rise to the top. One such program could be Arizona. Under Tommy Lloyd, the Wildcats have become a formidable force in college basketball, with a roster loaded with potential.
Purdue, led by the dominant big man Zach Edey, has been playing excellent basketball, and they could continue to climb in the rankings, especially if they perform well in early conference play. Similarly, teams like Creighton and Tennessee have shown they have the talent and depth to make a strong push toward the top of the polls.
Key Matchups and the Road Ahead
As we move into 2025, several high-profile matchups will play a significant role in shaping the rankings. Early-season conference games, holiday tournaments, and non-conference showdowns will all serve as tests for these teams, offering opportunities to prove their worth on a national stage. A couple of early upsets are also likely, which could shake up the standings and lead to unexpected teams sneaking into the AP Top 25.
Conclusion
With the new year just around the corner, college basketball fans are in for an exciting stretch of games that will determine which teams will emerge as the top contenders for the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Whether it’s the familiar names like Kansas and Duke or a rising star like Arizona, the AP Poll is sure to see plenty of movement as the season unfolds. Keep an eye on the teams poised to make their mark as we head into 2025!
