Sat Nov 08 00:20:00 UTC 2025: College Basketball Season Tips Off with High Hopes, Early Upsets

The 2025-26 college basketball season is officially underway following a whirlwind offseason of coaching changes and player transfers. ESPN’s Jay Bilas wasted no time releasing his preseason top-68 rankings, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season.

Topping Bilas’ list is Purdue, led by veteran coach Matt Painter and star point guard Braden Smith. The Boilermakers are eager to return to the National Championship game after a dominant opening win against Evansville.

Houston, still seeking its first national title after last year’s heartbreaking loss to Florida, started strong with a victory over Lehigh. Kelvin Sampson’s squad, featuring key returners and promising freshman Chris Cenac Jr., looks poised for another deep tournament run.

Reigning champion Florida, however, stumbled out of the gate with a loss to Arizona. Despite a strong performance from Thomas Haugh, the Gators’ revamped roster struggled to find its rhythm.

Other notable season openers include UConn’s convincing win over New Haven, Duke’s dominant victory over Texas and St. John’s blowout victory over Quinnipiac and Michigan’s explosive 121 point game against Oakland. Kentucky and Tennessee also started with convincing wins.

With powerhouse programs reloading and rising contenders emerging, the 2025-26 college basketball season is shaping up to be a must-watch.

(List of Bilas’ Top 68 Teams Follows Here)

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