The early preseason Top 25 rankings for college basketball in 2026 reveal a significant transformation, primarily driven by the addition of fifth-year players and a strong returning core from several teams.

1. Florida leads the pack, returning six of their top seven scorers from a 27-8 season, bolstered by Kentucky transfer Denzel Aberdeen and 7-foot center Jones Lay.

2. Duke follows closely, with four of their top six scorers back from a 35-3 season, enriched by a stellar recruiting class featuring John Blackwell and five-star prospects like Cameron Williams.

3. Illinois showcases five of their top eight scorers returning from a 28-9 season, joined by Providence transfer Stefan Vaaks and several promising recruits.

4. UConn retains three of their top seven scorers from a 34-6 season, adding notable transfers such as Nikolas Khamenia and Najai Hines to their roster.

5. Texas looks strong with one of their top scorers, Matas Vokietaitis, returning from a 21-15 season, complemented by a robust recruiting class led by five-star prospect Marcus Spears Jr.

6. Arizona returns two of their top five scorers from a 36-3 season and enhances their lineup with key transfers from North Carolina and Washington.

7. Michigan State and Michigan also make the top ten, both bringing back vital scoring contributors from successful seasons.

The rankings reflect the strategic advantages teams gain by retaining experienced players and enhancing their rosters with impactful transfers, setting the stage for an exciting college basketball season ahead.