Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of 2025-26 Season
The new season of Big 12 basketball has begun, promising another competitive year in college hoops.
Season Outlook
The Big 12 launches the second season since expanding to 16 teams, aiming to regain its status as the premier conference in the nation for 2025-26. Despite trailing the SEC last year, the Big 12 still had a strong showing with seven teams making the NCAA Tournament. Houston notably reached the National Championship Game.
Top Contenders
Houston looks poised to lead again under coach Kelvin Sampson, chasing a third straight regular-season title. The team is younger than usual with a notable freshman class, highlighted by Chris Cenac.
Freshman Stars to Watch
- BYU’s AJ Dybantsa
- Kansas’ Darryn Peterson, the nation’s No. 2 recruit
- Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou
- Houston’s Chris Cenac
- Arizona’s Koa Peat
Strong Teams Returning
Four Big 12 teams reached the Sweet 16 last season, and these squads look strong again this year:
- Houston
- BYU
- Texas Tech
- Arizona
Weekly Coverage
Each Monday during the college basketball season, KSL Sports will release weekly power rankings for the Big 12.
"It’s a younger team than we’re used to seeing in Houston, with a heralded freshman class in the program led by Chris Cenac."
Author’s summary: The Big 12 begins the 2025-26 basketball season with high hopes as standout freshmen and strong returning teams aim to reclaim the top spot in college basketball.