Purdue's Rise to the Top: A College Basketball Story
The Purdue Boilermakers have made a remarkable ascent in the world of college basketball, reaching the pinnacle of the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 poll for the first time in their history. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the program, as they earned 35 of 61 first-place votes, securing the top spot in the preseason rankings for the 2025-26 season. The Boilermakers' success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of their players and coaching staff, led by the visionary Matt Painter.
The Boilermakers' journey to the top began with a strong foundation. They have never been ranked No. 1 in any AP poll before the 2021-22 season, but since then, they have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the court. The 2023-24 season was a standout year, as they reached the national title game, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. This year, they return a talented core of players, including first-team AP All-American point guard Braden Smith and scoring leader Trey Kaufman-Renn, who averaged 20.1 points per game.
The AP Top 25 poll also showcases the strength of other college basketball programs. Houston, the runner-up from last year's NCAA title game, secured the No. 2 spot, while the reigning champion, Florida, claimed the No. 3 position. These rankings reflect the competitive landscape of college basketball, where teams strive for excellence and the pursuit of the ultimate prize.
Among the top-ranked teams, Kelvin Sampson's Houston Cougars earned 16 first-place votes, matching their best-ever preseason AP ranking after their impressive run last year. Similarly, Todd Golden's Florida Gators received eight first-place votes, securing their highest preseason ranking since their championship year in 2006-07. These teams are poised to make a strong impact in the upcoming season.
The poll also highlights the emergence of new programs and the transition of coaching leadership. Pat Kelsey has led Louisville back into the national elite, with the Cardinals ranked No. 11 after a successful 27-win season. This marks a significant improvement from their previous struggles, showcasing the impact of a new coaching vision. Additionally, the presence of second-year coaches in the poll, such as John Calipari at Arkansas, adds an intriguing layer of development and potential.
However, not all teams are soaring to the top. Kansas, under the leadership of Bill Self, has experienced a slight dip in rankings, settling for the No. 19 position. This marks the lowest preseason rank for the Jayhawks since their reign as national champions in the 2008-09 season. The team's performance will be a topic of discussion as they strive to reclaim their top spot.
The AP Top 25 poll also introduces a new coaching dynasty with the arrival of Bruce Pearl at Auburn. After a successful run in the Final Four last year, Pearl stepped down, making way for his son, Steven, to take the reins. This transition adds an element of intrigue, as the younger Pearl embarks on his first head coaching role, creating a unique family dynamic in the world of college basketball.
In terms of conference representation, the Southeastern Conference, Big Ten, and Big 12 dominate the rankings, each featuring six ranked teams. The Atlantic Coast Conference and Big East follow with three teams each, while the West Coast Conference is represented by Gonzaga at No. 21. The Big 12's strength is particularly notable, with three top-10 teams, showcasing the depth of talent within the conference.
As the season unfolds, the AP Top 25 poll will continue to provide insights into the evolving landscape of college basketball. The rankings will shift, and new teams will rise to the challenge, but for now, Purdue stands tall at the top, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
