The NBA Draft withdrawal deadline has passed, giving us a clearer idea of what college basketball rosters will look like for the upcoming season. This transfer portal season has been particularly eventful, with many teams making significant changes to their lineups. While there may still be some late additions or overseas signings, it’s now possible to put together a super-early Top 25 ranking.
1. Alabama Crimson Tide
Nate Oats has assembled the best 3-point shooting team in the country. With key additions like Mark Sears and Latrell Wrightsell Jr., along with three transfer guards who excel from beyond the arc, Alabama’s offense looks unstoppable. The team also improved its defense with the addition of Clifford Omoruyi, who was part of the fifth-ranked defense in college hoops last season. This deep roster boasts enviable athleticism and positional size.
2. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga returns four of five starters from last season’s team and welcomes back Jaylen Suggs, who missed the previous season due to injury. The team also adds Fletcher Loyer, who sat out last season with an ACL tear. With this talented roster, Gonzaga is poised to continue its success. The team’s bench could even form a top-25 team by itself.
3. Houston Cougars
Houston had the best defense in college basketball last season, and with most of its rotation returning, it’s expected to be a defensive powerhouse once again. The team’s only real issue last year was depth, but the addition of Milos Uzan and Terrance Arceneaux should address that problem. Houston has consistently won 30-plus games in recent years and is led by coach Kelvin Sampson.
4. Kansas Jayhawks
Kansas had a solid season last year but struggled with shooting and a lack of perimeter scoring. However, with the addition of several transfers who specialize in playmaking and shooting, coach Bill Self has addressed those issues. The team’s lineup versatility has also improved, with big wings who can play the four and a more athletic backup center. This lineup construction should lead to a more efficient offense.
5. Iowa State Cyclones
Iowa State had the best defense in college basketball last season and is expected to maintain its defensive prowess this year. Coach T.J. Otzelberger has a proven track record of developing elite defenses. The team also excels at finding underrated transfers who thrive in their system. With a solid returning core and strong defensive additions, Iowa State is well-positioned for success.
6. Duke Blue Devils
Duke has brought in an impressive group of transfers and freshmen, making it one of the most talented teams in college basketball. Coach Jon Scheyer has built a team with great positional size and a focus on defense. However, the key to Duke’s success will be Cooper Flagg, who needs to live up to the hype and provide a consistent offensive presence.
7. Connecticut Huskies
Under coach Dan Hurley, Connecticut has excelled in roster construction and developed strong offensive and defensive schemes. The addition of shooting this offseason should significantly improve the team’s offense. With optimal floor spacing, UConn’s offense can thrive. The team’s success will largely depend on Aidan Mahaney, who needs to play to his potential and provide off-the-dribble playmaking.
8. Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee has been a consistent top-five seed in the NCAA Tournament for the past six years. The team’s strength lies in its elite defense, which is expected to continue this season. The question mark is on the offensive end, particularly in replacing Dalton Knecht. However, with added shooting and scoring options, Tennessee should have a more well-rounded offense this year.
9. Arizona Wildcats
Arizona had one of the best defenses in college basketball last season and looks to improve on that end with strong defensive additions. The return of Tyrese Love, who was more efficient at Arizona than at UNC, is a significant boost. Coach Tommy Lloyd has surrounded Love with floor spacers, giving him room to excel on offense. This fast-paced team is built for success.
10. Auburn Tigers
Auburn returns three of its top four leading scorers from last season, and coach Bruce Pearl has addressed potential weaknesses through the transfer portal. With a deep roster and improved point guard play, Auburn has the potential to be a top-five team this year.
11. Texas A&M Aggies
Texas A&M was one of the best teams in the country when Wade Taylor IV joined the starting lineup last season. With improved depth and shooting off the bench, the Aggies should continue to excel on offense. Their strength lies in offensive rebounding, which allows them to maintain a strong offense even during poor shooting performances.
12. North Carolina Tar Heels
North Carolina’s low-post threat Armando Bacot has left, but the team still boasts a solid roster. The loss of Harrison Ingram hurts, but there is enough talent and experience to make up for it. The team’s success will largely depend on RJ Davis, who needs to replicate or come close to his performance last season.
13. Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue has consistently performed well under coach Matt Painter. This season, they have a strong core returning and a talented freshman class. The team’s success will largely depend on Braden Smith, who was a key player before his foot injury two years ago. If he stays healthy, Purdue should be a force to be reckoned with.
14. Marquette Golden Eagles
Marquette has one of the best guard trios in the country with Kam Jones, Stevie Mitchell, and Chase Ross. This shooting-heavy team should have no trouble scoring. Coach Shaka Smart has a strong track record of development and has created a deep and talented roster.
15. Baylor Bears
Baylor’s projected starting lineup is small, but it boasts a strong offense. The team’s success will largely depend on Jeremy Roach and Norchad Omier. If Omier can provide a dominant low-post presence and Roach can continue to excel on both ends of the court, Baylor will be a formidable team.
16. Florida Gators
Florida has one of the best guard trios in the country, which should make its offense highly efficient. Coach Todd Golden has improved the team’s shooting and added depth. With a good mix of playmakers and shooters, Florida is poised for success.
17. Michigan Wolverines
Michigan had a total overhaul of its roster through the transfer portal. Coach Juwan Howard has assembled a talented group of transfers and freshmen. While it may take some time for the team to find its rhythm, the pieces seem to fit well together. This will be a test for Howard’s coaching abilities, but there is potential for success.
18. Texas Longhorns
Texas had an outstanding defense last season and returns most of its rotation. The addition of Tre Donaldson and Rubin Jones should bolster the team’s backcourt. The Longhorns’ success will largely depend on their point guard play and offensive consistency.
19. Indiana Hoosiers
Indiana had a strong offseason, landing several talented transfers who address the team’s shooting and playmaking needs. The team’s success will largely depend on the development of its players and how well they fit into coach Mike Woodson’s system.
20. Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois has added several talented transfers and international signings to its roster. Coach Brad Underwood has prioritized size and skill, creating a team with plenty of upside. The success of Illinois will largely depend on the performance of its young players.
21. Saint Louis Billikens
Saint Louis had a strong defense last season and has added some talented transfers to its roster. Coach Dusty May has a history of developing players and getting them to buy into his system. With a solid backcourt and strong defense, Saint Louis is a team to watch.
22. Cincinnati Bearcats
Cincinnati has landed two of the best point guards in the transfer portal, giving the team a strong backcourt. Coach Wes Miller has a good mix of playmakers and shooters, and the team’s depth at every position should serve them well.
23. Xavier Musketeers
Xavier’s roster is led by Zach Freemantle, who is returning from injury. The team has added several talented transfers to bolster its lineup. Coach Sean Miller has a deep and talented roster that should compete at a high level.
24. BYU Cougars
BYU had one of the best offenses in college basketball last season and returns several key players. Coach Mark Pope has emphasized shooting in his recruitment, and BYU’s offense should continue to thrive.
25. St. John’s Red Storm
St. John’s has landed two of the best point guards in the transfer portal, giving the team a strong backcourt. Coach Rick Pitino has a track record of success and will likely find a way to maximize the talents of his guards.