The Kansas Jayhawks have reclaimed their spot at the pinnacle of college basketball, as the Associated Press unveiled its preseason Top 25 college basketball poll on Monday. With a commanding 30 out of 60 first-place votes, Kansas begins the season as the team to beat, ahead of Alabama and UConn, the reigning national champions. The latest poll reflects an expected rebound in the landscape of college basketball, setting the stage for an exhilarating season filled with high expectations.
Last season, the Jayhawks began with similar aspirations but faltered amid injuries and struggles in the Big 12, culminating in an early exit from the NCAA tournament. This time, however, head coach Bill Self has strategically retooled his roster, bringing in a powerhouse class of transfers that includes AJ Storr from Wisconsin, Zeke Mayo from South Dakota State, and Rylan Griffen from Alabama. These new additions join returning stars Hunter Dickinson, Dajuan Harris Jr., and KJ Adams Jr., forming a team that boasts both experience and youthful vigor.
Reflecting on the new rankings, Self expressed a mix of pride and pragmatism. “We welcome being No. 1, especially with our returning players like Hunter, Dajuan, and KJ, and then you add the players we brought in,” he noted. “The goal is to be No. 1 at the end of the season, and though we welcome this, it is not the end goal.”
The competition is fierce, with Alabama not far behind in the rankings, securing 14 first-place votes. The Crimson Tide’s hopes hinge on standout All-American guard Mark Sears and promising newcomer Jarin Stevenson. UConn, aiming for a historic third consecutive championship, sits in third with 11 first-place votes, signaling that the chase for the title will be as competitive as ever.
The Jayhawks’ rise to the top reflects not only their talent but also the strength of the Big 12 conference, which is making headlines this season. The league, which has welcomed new members Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado, now boasts three teams in the top five and five in the top ten of the preseason poll. “To have three Big 12 teams in the top five and five in the top 10 just shows how competitive this league will be,” Self commented, underscoring the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball.
As the season approaches, the eyes of fans and analysts alike will be glued to the Jayhawks’ performance. Their upcoming games will not only shape their journey but could also redefine the national narrative around the Big 12. While Kansas holds the No. 1 spot for now, the realities of college basketball — where injuries, chemistry, and momentum can pivot a season in an instant — mean that the Jayhawks will need to navigate a treacherous landscape of talented competitors.
The Challengers Who Will Also Compete For Supremacy
4. Houston (4) – 1,343 Points
Houston, the Cougars, continue to be a formidable force in college basketball. Under the leadership of head coach Kelvin Sampson, they have established a reputation for tenacious defense and efficient scoring. The Cougars’ roster features several returning players who were instrumental in last season’s success, and they are looking to build on their previous tournament run. With a strong recruiting class and experienced upperclassmen, Houston aims to maintain its status as a perennial contender, making a strong case for another deep postseason run.
5. Iowa State – 1,177 Points
Iowa State comes into the season with optimism, returning all four of its top scorers from a team that advanced to the NCAA tournament as a No. 2 seed last year. The Cyclones, led by head coach T.J. Otzelberger, will rely on the chemistry and experience of their veteran players to navigate the challenges of the Big 12. Their strong defensive style and ability to control the tempo of the game will be crucial as they aim to build on last year’s success and position themselves as a title contender.
6. Gonzaga (1) – 1,157 Points
Gonzaga remains a household name in college basketball, known for its high-powered offense and strong tournament performances. While they received only one first-place vote, the Bulldogs are still seen as a significant threat. Coach Mark Few’s squad is always loaded with talent, and this year is no exception. With standout players and a solid mix of veterans and promising newcomers, Gonzaga will look to assert itself in a competitive West Coast Conference and make another deep run in March.
7. Duke – 1,154 Points
Duke is back in the mix, led by consensus No. 1 recruit Cooper Flagg. Under first-year head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils are looking to return to their former glory after a couple of rebuilding years. Flagg, with his versatile skill set, will be a focal point for the team, alongside a talented roster that includes several returning contributors. Duke’s ability to blend experience with fresh talent will be crucial as they aim to compete for the ACC title and make a significant mark in the NCAA tournament.
8. Baylor – 1,109 Points
Baylor continues to be a powerhouse in college basketball, thanks to head coach Scott Drew’s ability to recruit and develop talent. The Bears will look to build on their recent successes, including a national championship in 2021. With a mix of returning players and new talent, Baylor’s defensive prowess and scoring ability will be tested in a highly competitive Big 12. Their experience in high-pressure situations makes them a team to watch as the season unfolds.
9. North Carolina – 1,037 Points
The Tar Heels, always a perennial contender, have high hopes for the upcoming season after a disappointing end last year. With key players returning, including perhaps the best point guard in the nation RJ Davis and some who played pivotal roles in their 2022 national championship run, North Carolina will look to reclaim its place among the elite. Head coach Hubert Davis will focus on building team chemistry and refining their style of play, aiming for a successful campaign in the ACC and a deep tournament run. Their bigs and wing players will be the positions to watch in hopes of stability.
10. Arizona – 905 Points
Arizona has emerged as a powerhouse under head coach Tommy Lloyd, known for his offensive prowess and the ability to recruit top-tier talent. The Wildcats have a dynamic roster filled with athleticism and skill, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the Pac-12. With several key players returning and a solid recruiting class, Arizona aims to build on last year’s success and make a statement on the national stage.
As the regular season looms, one thing is certain: the quest for the title will be filled with competitive drama, a show of skill, and relentless team effort. For Kansas, the top ranking is an honor and a challenge — one they are determined to embrace. Will this be the year the Jayhawks can turn preseason promise into postseason glory? Or will some upstart be the Cinderella story in the end? Only time will tell, but the journey has officially begun.