Arizona Wildcats Secure the Top Spot in AP Poll
On January 12, 2026, the Arizona Wildcats solidified their position at the top of The Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll, showcasing their dominance in the ongoing season. With an impressive record of 16-0, Arizona earned 60 out of 61 first-place votes, making them the clear leader. Their ascendance to this pinnacle follows a tense week where they barely clung to the No. 1 position, despite fierce competition from the Michigan Wolverines.
Michigan Wolverines Fall from Grace
Just last week, Arizona narrowly led Michigan, then ranked No. 2, by just a single point. Fans were on the edge of their seats, aware that they were moments away from witnessing only the second tie at No. 1 in the poll’s 78-year history. However, a surprising upset by Wisconsin, who handed Michigan their first loss of the season, opened the door for Arizona’s firm grip on the top spot.
Rising Stars: Iowa State and UConn
Following Arizona in the rankings, Iowa State has risen one spot to No. 2 and UConn holds steady at No. 3. Michigan, after suffering the upset, has dropped to the No. 4 position. This leaves Purdue, Duke, and Houston in the same slots as last week, shaping a fierce competitive landscape among these elite programs.
Nebraska’s Historic Climb
Farther down the ranks, Nebraska is making headlines for its remarkable ascent. Climbing two spots to No. 8, they matched their all-time highest ranking, a feat last achieved in February 1966. Their steady rise showcases a promising season, reflecting the team’s resilience and skill.
Vanderbilt’s Impressive Unbeaten Streak
Vanderbilt, with their unbeaten record, found themselves surging into the top 10 for the first time since the 2011-12 preseason poll. Now ranked at No. 10, their success has been a great story for fans, reinforcing their place in college basketball after years of fluctuating performance.
New Faces in the Rankings
The latest poll also sees four new additions, marking a change in the landscape as teams shift in and out. The reigning national champions, the Florida Gators, have returned at No. 19, signaling their ambition to reclaim dominance. Clemson, Utah State, and Seton Hall also make their appearances, with Seton Hall celebrating their return to the rankings for the first time since January 2022.
Teams That Dropped Out
Conversely, the poll saw notable programs fall from grace, including Iowa, Kansas, SMU, and UCF. Each faced challenges that proved too great, leading to their exit from this week’s rankings. Their journeys will now focus on rebuilding and aiming for future success.
The Competitive Landscape Ahead
As the season progresses, the competition heats up. Teams like Arizona and Iowa State are not just battling for the top spots; they’re also building a narrative that could impact NCAA tournament considerations. Every game counts, and with teams like Vanderbilt creating buzz around their unbeaten streak, fans should prepare for an exciting finish to the season.
This year’s college basketball landscape is shaping up to be one for the ages, with surprises around every corner and established powerhouses fighting to reclaim their glory. The ongoing tussle for rankings keeps the excitement alive, reminding fans why they love this unpredictable sport.