Way-too-early men's college basketball power rankings for 2026-27 season

The 2025-26 college basketball season just concluded with Michigan winning the national championship. So, how do the NCAA teams stack up for next season?

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 2025-26 college basketball season saw a wild ride with transfer portal moves and NIL deals more prevalent than ever before. Freshmen were also more dominant, with AJ Dybantsa leading the nation in scoring, Cameron Boozer named national player of the year, and Darryn Peterson looking like one of the best draft prospects. As the scent of March Madness is still fresh, here are the way-too-early power rankings for the 2026-27 season.

Why it matters

The entire college basketball landscape will look much different next season, with roster changes, coaching moves, and top recruits joining programs. These power rankings provide an early glimpse into which teams are poised to be the top contenders for the 2026-27 NCAA championship.

The details

The rankings cover the top 25 teams, with analysis on key returnees, departures, and incoming talent for each squad. Programs like Duke, Michigan, Illinois, and Michigan State are expected to be among the nation's elite, while others like Nebraska, Miami, and Purdue will look to take the next step. The transfer portal and NIL deals continue to significantly impact rosters, making the offseason as crucial as the on-court action.

  • The 2025-26 college basketball season just concluded.
  • Recruiting information found at 247sports.com.

The players

Robbie Avila

A fan-favorite player who is departing Saint Louis.

Trey Green

An All-Atlantic 10 Third-Team member who will lead Saint Louis' scoring next season.

Ja'Kobi Gillespie

A graduating player who Tennessee will miss as they look to make their fourth straight Elite Eight.

Nate Ament

Departed Tennessee player who was also key to their recent success.

Tyler Lundblade

The Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year who is transferring to Tennessee.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The 2026-27 college basketball season is shaping up to be another exciting year, with traditional powerhouses like Duke, Michigan, and Illinois expected to be among the nation's elite, while other programs like Nebraska, Miami, and Purdue look to take the next step. The impact of the transfer portal and NIL deals will continue to significantly shape rosters, making the offseason as crucial as the on-court action.