College Basketball Way-Too-Early Top 25 – The college basketball season may have just concluded, but it’s never too early to start looking ahead to next year. With the transfer portal and potential roster changes, teams can quickly see their fortunes change. However, based on the current rosters and projected returnees, here’s a way-too-early look at the top 25 rankings for the 2023 college basketball season.
College Basketball Way-Too-Early Top 25: 1. UConn
UConn’s dominant championship run and the potential return of key players make them the top team heading into next season. Adama Sanogo and a talented supporting cast give UConn a strong chance at defending their title.
2. Purdue
Purdue could become a formidable opponent once Zach Edey returns and they address their need for quickness, as their freshman class shows promise and they strengthen their presence within Big Ten competition.
3. Kentucky
Kentucky may experience some player departures, but their top-ranked recruiting class and potential return of key players make them worth watching. Coach John Calipari’s experience coaching freshmen should give Kentucky an advantage in finding success on the court.
4. Arizona
Arizona still boasts an impressive roster, featuring many returning players despite suffering a disappointing tournament loss. Jaden Bradley and improved ball-handling are key areas to address, yet they remain among the team’s top competitors.
5. Houston
Houston’s system under Coach Kelvin Sampson has proven effective, even amid some possible departures of key players. They will regain strength with talented transfers and recruits coming in, remaining an elite force in the Big 12.
6. UCLA
UCLA will depend on several seniors and newcomers returning next season, but coach Mick Cronin should ensure his players remain competitive regardless of who comes back.
7. Miami
With most key players expected to return, Miami can build on their strong finish to last season. Coach Jim Larranaga’s decision to return will play a crucial role in their success.
8. Tennessee
Tennessee’s depth and talented transfers should help them maintain their competitive edge. If Santiago Vescovi returns, they have a strong chance to make a deep run.
9. Kansas
Despite losing key scorers, Kansas has a history of reloading and maintaining success. The addition of Hunter Dickenson through the transfer portal bolsters their roster.
10. Marquette
Shaka Smart’s return along with the majority of their contributors bodes well for Marquette. While they may not experience a huge leap, their young team should show improvement.
11. Gonzaga
Mark Few’s coaching prowess and Gonzaga’s success in recent years make them a perennial contender. If Drew Timme returns and they find talent in the transfer portal, they will remain a top team.
12. Baylor
Baylor’s ability to reload through transfers and incoming freshmen should help them sustain their success. While they may face some challenges, they have the talent to compete.
13. Creighton
Creighton could emerge as a strong contender if key players return, particularly Ryan Kalkbrenner. Additionally, adding Steven Ashworth through the transfer portal provides extra depth.
14. Duke
Duke’s success will depend on the development of their freshmen and the return of key players like Jeremy Roach and Tyrese Proctor. With Kyle Filipowski deciding to return, Duke’s potential for the upcoming season improves.
15. Michigan State
Tom Izzo’s ability to develop talent and the addition of highly touted freshman Xavier Booker gives Michigan State upside. If Booker lives up to his potential and key players return, the Spartans could exceed expectations.
16. FAU
FAU’s surprising Final Four run and the potential return of their players make them an intriguing team. The continuity and NCAA experience should help them maintain their success, but they will face tougher challenges in the American Conference.
17. Texas A&M
Texas A&M’s deep rotation and experienced players provide them with a solid foundation. While they will need to replace some contributors, their returning core should keep them competitive.
18. Arkansas
Eric Musselman’s ability to recruit from the transfer portal and his track record of success give Arkansas a boost. If key players return and they continue to add talent through the portal, they can make another strong run.
19. Auburn
Auburn’s potential return of Johni Broome and Wendell Green, along with the addition of top recruit Baye Fall, keeps them in contention. Coach Bruce Pearl’s ability to recruit and develop players should help them compete.
20. Alabama
While Alabama faces some departures, Coach Nate Oats has shown an ability to adapt and succeed. Their success will depend on the development of younger players and potential additions through the transfer portal.
21. Saint Mary’s
Randy Bennett’s coaching expertise and Saint Mary’s consistent success make them a team to watch. If key players return and they continue their strong recruiting, they can maintain their competitive edge.
22. TCU
With the return of Mike Miles and JaKobe Coles, TCU has a solid foundation. They will also benefit from the addition of quality players through the transfer portal.
23. Rutgers
Clifford Omoruyi’s potential return and the possibility of key players using their fifth covid year keep Rutgers in contention. They will need to address depth concerns and continue to develop their roster.
24. West Virginia
West Virginia is blessed with talented returnees like Tre Mitchell and Kedrian Johnson who offer experience and talent, as well as their addition of transfers who further diversify their roster.
25. UCLA
UCLA remains competitive despite possible player departures thanks to an impressive recruiting class and returning key players, along with Coach Mick Cronin’s coaching ability, which will play an instrumental role in their success..
While the college basketball landscape can change rapidly with transfers and other roster moves, these way-too-early top 25 rankings provide a glimpse into the potential contenders for the 2023 season. With talented returning players, impactful transfers, and highly regarded recruits, these teams have the pieces in place to compete at a high level. As the season approaches, we can expect more surprises and changes, but for now, the top-25 college basketball teams are primed for success.
