The preseason AP Top 25 poll was released, showcasing the top teams heading into the 2026-27 college basketball season. The rankings featured Florida, Duke, Illinois, and UConn in the top four positions, marking them as the strongest contenders for the national title.

Key Highlights:

• Florida boasts the best frontcourt in the nation, with key players like Thomas Haugh and Rueben Chinyelu returning after winning the national title in 2025.
• Duke has impressive depth, potentially fielding two starting lineups, and features John Blackwell, a preseason All-American.
• Illinois returns 65.4% of its scoring production, highlighted by David Mirković and the addition of five-star guard Quentin Coleman.
• UConn, fresh off three Final Four appearances in four seasons, returns a strong backcourt with Silas Demary Jr. and Braylon Mullins, enhancing their championship aspirations.

The A Tier includes teams like Arizona, Michigan State, and Texas Tech, each possessing significant talent but facing eligibility questions for key players. The B Tier features Virginia and Houston, with both teams having potential but needing to prove themselves against stronger competition.

The C Tier is headlined by reigning national champion Michigan, which is navigating challenges such as the loss of coach Dusty May and injuries to key players like Brandon McCoy Jr.. Other notable teams include UCLA and USC, both boasting promising rosters.

As the season unfolds, expect shifts in these rankings, particularly with players seeking extended eligibility, which could reshape the landscape of college basketball.