Tue Dec 30 01:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the college basketball landscape as we approach conference play in 2026:

Headline: Six College Basketball Teams Remain Unbeaten as Conference Play Looms

As the calendar nears 2026, the college basketball season is poised to heat up with conference play about to begin. With weaker non-conference schedules now behind them, questions will be answered as tough games intensify, and teams will be tested twice a week. Six undefeated teams remain and will determine which is next to lose, which will be the last standing, and which will have lasting power.

Currently, the unblemished records belong to Arizona Wildcats, Michigan Wolverines, Iowa State Cyclones, Vanderbilt Commodores, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and Miami (Ohio) RedHawks. Each has carved its own path to this point, but sterner challenges lie ahead.

Arizona (12-0, AP #1) opened the season strong with freshman Koa Peat leading the charge. They are led by coach Tommy Lloyd with key wins against reigning champion Florida and wins over UConn, Alabama, UCLA, Auburn, and San Diego State, their victory over UConn on the road standing out as a major statement. Their well-balanced roster, featuring standout performances from Peat and Brayden Burries, combined with Jaden Bradley at point guard and dominant center play makes them a formidable force. Their biggest upcoming test is a January 26th road game against BYU.

Michigan (11-0, AP #2) after closer than expected wins over Wake Forest and TCU, Michigan went to Las Vegas for the Players Era Festival and dominated. They have an experienced, deep, fast, and big team led by coach Dusty May. Yaxel Lendeborg has emerged as a player of the year candidate, with Elliot Cadeau running the offense. Their biggest test will come January 30th at Michigan State.

Iowa State (12-0, AP #3) under coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Cyclones boast an elite defense and a sharp-shooting offense. Key wins include victories over St. John’s, Creighton, Syracuse, and a stunning road win against Purdue. Joshua Jefferson has become an All-American caliber player and Milan Momcilovic has been the best shooter in the country. Their biggest test will come on January 13th at Kansas.

Vanderbilt (12-0, AP #11) lacks a marquee win, but has dominated strong opponents. They have an experienced, explosive unit led by coach Mark Byington, and the backcourt of Tyler Tanner and Duke Miles. Their biggest upcoming test will be January 7th vs Alabama.

Nebraska (12-0, AP #13) is riding the nation’s longest active winning streak. They are an experienced team that makes 3s led by coach Fred Hoiberg. All-conference forward Rienk Mast has returned and Pryce Sandfort is enjoying a breakout season. Their biggest test comes Friday vs. Michigan State.

Miami (Ohio) (13-0, Unranked) has benefited from a weak schedule. They have been performing on the offensive end at an extremely high level, averaging better than 95 points. Nine different players have already scored at least 15 points in a game. Their biggest test is on Tuesday at Bowling Green.

As conference play commences, these six teams will face heightened competition, and the college basketball world eagerly anticipates which will remain undefeated and demonstrate true championship potential.

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