The growing expenses associated with assembling a competitive college basketball team appear to be a rare trend upward, encouraging many of the top talent who still have eligibility to return to school. In this uncertain landscape following Florida’s recent national championship triumph over Houston, we provide an early preview of the top teams for the upcoming season.
You’ll notice on the projected ’25-26 rosters that some players also find themselves in NBA mock drafts, where many are expected to be second-round picks. Traditionally, these athletes would jump to the NBA, but many are now choosing to stay in college as playing for high-major programs offers financial advantages over second-round and two-way contracts.
Moreover, the ongoing transfers through the portal complicate this analysis, with the portal closing for new entries on April 22, although existing players can take longer to finalize their decisions. Some roster spots are based on assumptions of quality portal additions due to specific needs shaped by past program trends. With these factors considered, narrowing down 25 teams to rank is challenging, but here goes an adventurous attempt at the way-too-early Top 25.
1. Purdue
Projected starters: Braden Smith, C.J. Cox, Fletcher Loyer, Trey Kaufman-Renn, Oscar Cluff (transfer)
Notable returners: Daniel Jacobsen, Gicarri Harris, Raleigh Burgess
Other newcomers: Antoine West
Purdue combines talent and roster continuity better than any team at this moment, maintaining its standing following departures that affected perimeter depth. Essential players like Braden Smith, a first-team AP All-American, are returning, bolstered by quality transfers including Oscar Cluff from South Dakota State. Coach Matt Painter’s team is likely to remain a strong contender, especially if additional perimeter talent is secured.
2. Florida
Projected starters: Portal player TBD, Denzel Aberdeen, Thomas Haugh, Alex Condon, Rueben Chinyelu
Notable returners: Micah Handlogten, Sam Alexis, Urban Klavzar
Other newcomers: Alex Lloyd, CJ Ingram (freshman)
Building on their national championship win, Florida retains a formidable frontcourt, which may be further enhanced by a high-caliber guard from the portal. With talent such as Denzel Aberdeen and potential first-round draft prospects in Thomas Haugh and Alex Condon, the Gators have strong prospects for another successful season.
3. Houston
Projected starters: Milos Uzan, Emanuel Sharp, Terrance Arceneaux, Chris Cenac Jr. (freshman), Joseph Tugler
Notable returners: Mercy Miller, Ramon Walker
Other newcomers: Isiah Harwell, Kingston Flemings, Bryce Jackson, Kalifa Sakho (transfer)
With Milos Uzan weighing his draft options, Houston may pursue a veteran point guard if he departs. Despite a roster that could lean heavily on freshmen, Houston boasts a solid returning core, making them a potential force with experienced players like JoJo Tugler looking to capitalize on their opportunities.
4. Louisville
Projected starters: Mikel Brown Jr. (freshman), Ryan Conwell (transfer), Isaac McKneely (transfer), Kasean Pryor, Aly Khalifa
Notable returners: James Scott, Khani Rooths
Other newcomers: Adrian Wooley (transfer), Sananda Fru
After a fabulous first season, Louisville has thrived in the transfer portal. The team looks strong with a familiar backcourt, bolstered by transfers like Ryan Conwell and Aly Khalifa, who can greatly contribute to a much stronger team. The mix of local talent combined with the new arrivals lays a solid foundation for success this coming season.
5. Michigan
Projected starters: Elliot Cadeau (transfer), Nimari Burnett, Roddy Gayle, Yaxel Lendeborg (transfer), Morez Johnson (transfer)
Notable returners: LJ Cason
Other newcomers: Trey McKenney, Winters Grady
Coach Dusty May has made impressive strides in the transfer portal. Key frontcourt additions will help redefine their identity alongside returning talents. The success of Michigan largely hinges on the performance of its newcomers and the return of proven talents like Nimari Burnett, which could elevate them significantly in rankings.
