In a significant shift in the college basketball landscape, the Houston Cougars have ascended to the summit of The Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll, claiming the coveted No. 1 spot for the first time this season. This move marks the end of the six-week reign of the reigning national champions, the UConn Huskies.
The Cougars (24-3) rose one spot to clinch the top ranking, becoming the fifth team to do so this season. Led by head coach Kelvin Sampson, Houston’s rise to the top signifies a resurgence reminiscent of their glory days during the “Phi Slama Jama” era in the 1982-83 season. Despite a change in conference affiliation to the Big 12, the Cougars continue to emphasize their defensive prowess, leading the nation in KenPom’s adjusted defensive efficiency, allowing a mere 87.1 points per 100 possessions.
Speaking after a hard-fought overtime victory against Baylor, Coach Sampson remarked, “Our guys are tough. We’re not always pretty. But last time I checked, this is not a beauty contest.”
The latest AP Top 25 Men’s Basketball Poll reflects the shifting dynamics within the college basketball landscape:
- Houston (53) 24-3
- Purdue (4) 25-3
- UConn (5) 25-3
- Tennessee 21-6
- Marquette 21-6
- Arizona 21-6
- Kansas 21-6
- Iowa State 21-6
- North Carolina 21-6
- Duke 21-6
The top 10 remained largely intact, with minor adjustments in rankings. Notable movements include Tennessee climbing to its highest ranking of the season at No. 4 and Baylor dropping four spots following losses to BYU and Houston.
In a season characterized by unpredictability, newcomers South Florida, Utah State, and Gonzaga have entered the rankings, adding further intrigue to the college basketball landscape.
As conference play intensifies, the Southeastern Conference leads the charge with six ranked teams, closely followed by the Big 12 with four teams in the top 15.
With the regular season nearing its conclusion, the battle for supremacy promises thrilling matchups and intense competition as teams jostle for postseason contention and national recognition.
