Right now, college basketball is living in a realm where the only certainty is uncertainty. Over half of the AP Top 25 teams suffered a loss this week, which, believe it or not, is pretty typical for this unpredictable 2024-25 season. Let’s dive into the shake-up in our power rankings as we head into the final weeks of the regular season.
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Duke (22-3)
Jon Scheyer’s squad enjoyed a smooth ride this week as they took on a couple of West Coast teams at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The rising stars around Cooper Flagg are finding their rhythm, and while a nail-biter or two might add some excitement, the Blue Devils seem perfectly content with their current dominance. -
Auburn (23-2)
In a game that will be remembered in SEC basketball lore, Auburn fended off their state rivals in a thrilling matchup to bolster their claim on the regular season conference title. Everything seems to be aligning for the Tigers to secure the No. 1 overall seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. -
Alabama (20-3)
The heart Alabama showed in clawing back into their game against Auburn was commendable, even if it wasn’t enough. No breaks await them, though, as all six remaining games pit them against ranked opponents, including three from the top five. -
Florida (22-3)
The Gators might be bruised and battered, but they just keep on winning. Their efforts earned them a spot among the top four seeds as per the NCAA Tournament committee on Saturday. Keeping up this form, however, poses a challenge with a tough schedule ahead. -
Houston (21-4)
Freshly placed in the Big 12, the Cougars are eyeing their second straight regular season championship. Their impressive win in Tucson against No. 13 Arizona on Saturday highlights why they deserve more respect—both on and off the court, particularly in tournament bracket discussions. -
Texas A&M (20-5)
Though somehow overlooked in talks about top SEC teams, the Aggies have been quietly thriving. Despite an injury scare with Wade Taylor IV, they’re sitting third in the league and are a strong contender for both the SEC title and a possible Final Four spot. -
Tennessee (21-5)
Overcoming a 13-point halftime deficit against Vanderbilt, especially after two losses to Kentucky, was the gut-check Rick Barnes and his team needed. A spirited second half led by Zakai Zeigler and Chaz Lanier propelled them forward, with a daunting trip to College Station next. -
Iowa State (20-5)
Bouncing back from a three-game skid, the Cyclones have regained their footing ahead of what will be their toughest regular season stretch yet. While a conference title might be out of reach, a strong finish could set the stage for greater ambitions in Ames. -
St. John’s (22-4)
Even after a midweek loss to Villanova, the Red Storm remains the Big East leader thanks to a victory over Creighton. Rick Pitino’s undefeated home streak this season speaks volumes as his squad closes in on a conference title in his second season. -
Texas Tech (20-4)
Grant McCasland’s leadership is shining in his second year in Lubbock. While not as star-studded as the 2019 team that reached the Final Four, this squad packs potential, with a top-notch offense and a robust defense to match. -
Wisconsin (20-5)
The Badgers made the most of their extra rest with a statement win at Purdue. After an explosive 58-point second half blitz, Wisconsin thrusts itself back into the Big Ten title conversation. -
Memphis (21-5)
Toying with fate finally caught up to Memphis as they faced an upset against Wichita State. Despite the hiccup, the team is well-positioned for the tournament and is set to be a formidable mid-seed contender in March. -
Michigan State (20-5)
Tom Izzo marked a historic moment by surpassing Bobby Knight for most Big Ten wins, achieving this milestone with a critical victory over Illinois. As they head into a series of challenging matchups, the Spartans have momentum on their side. -
Marquette (19-6)
Marquette snapped their three-game losing skid against DePaul, setting the stage for what could be a season-defining finish. With consistent play, they could find themselves climbing higher in the tournament seedings. -
Purdue (19-7)
Despite a demanding schedule, Purdue’s struggles have some observers questioning their ranking. After an 0-2 week and a slide to third in the Big Ten, they look more like a four-seed, without the depth for a significant March run. - Michigan (19-5)
Michigan’s knack for close victories is keeping them at the top of the standings, showcasing their survival skills against tough Big Ten foes. Such resilience positions them well in a conference still eager for its first national title since the turn of the century.
Next 5: Missouri, Kentucky, Arizona, Mississippi State, Clemson
Players of the Week:
JT Toppin, Texas Tech
JT Toppin is proving himself a standout in this year’s draft class at Texas Tech. His Herculean efforts—dropping 41 points against Arizona State and a double-double against Oklahoma State—underscore his rising star status.
Liam McNeeley, UConn
Though UConn faced a sour end, McNeeley dazzled with a road win against Creighton. The freshman delivered a stellar performance that solidifies his place as a future top-half lottery pick.
Tre Johnson, Texas
In a crucial win over Kentucky, Johnson’s scoring ability proved vital. Despite not being particularly efficient, his determination led the Longhorns to an upset that brings them back into tournament discussions.
Thomas Haugh, Florida
Far more than just statistics, Haugh’s presence is felt on the court, bolstered by nearly achieving a triple-double against Mississippi State. Riding this momentum, he seized his moment with a standout performance against South Carolina.
John Tonje, Wisconsin
Since a January setback, Tonje has surged. His 32-point outing against Purdue adds to his impressive scoring streak, making him a significant player in the Big Ten award race.
Play of the Week:
Hunter Sallis from Wake Forest continues to make waves this season after finding his groove post-Gonzaga. His standout plays keep him on the radar as a potential first-round pick, with moments like these showcasing his huge potential.
