2025-2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Season: AP Poll Insights

Historical Context

As of January 26, 2026, we find ourselves in an intriguing moment in NCAA men’s basketball history. This season marks the fifth occasion since the inception of the AP Poll in 1948-49 that three teams—Arizona, Nebraska, and Miami (OH)—have started their campaigns with a flawless 20-0 record. Notably, this trio remains in the rankings for two consecutive weeks, a testament to their robust performances on the court.

Maintaining Dominance: Arizona Wildcats

Sitting proudly at the top of the rankings, the Arizona Wildcats have successfully secured the unanimous No. 1 position for the second straight week. Their season record of 20-0 foreshadows a potential for greatness. It’s worth noting that they are now among an elite group; Arizona becomes only the second program in Big 12 history to achieve such a remarkable start, alongside Kansas. This streak also sees the Wildcats enjoying their third-longest winning spree in program history, trailing only behind their 22-game run from 1914-17 and a 21-game stint in 2013-14. Up next, Arizona faces BYU on Monday, January 30, 2026, at 9 PM ET.

Rising Stars: Nebraska Cornhuskers

In an unprecedented feat, the Nebraska Cornhuskers find themselves perched at No. 5 following their ascent into the top 10 for the first time in program history. With their current record mirroring the formidable 20-0 achievement, Nebraska is now the seventh team in Big Ten history to start its season this way, a notable highlight since the 2010-11 Ohio State squad that commenced with a stunning 24-0 record. Their remarkable journey continues this Tuesday against Michigan at 7 PM ET.

Consistency in the Rankings: UConn and Others

While the top of the rankings sees some movement, teams like UConn, Michigan, Duke, and BYU hold their positions firmly without changes. UConn, ranked No. 2, boasts a 19-1 record and a robust 15-game winning streak—their best since the iconic 1999 national championship run. Meanwhile, the Huskies will be facing Providence on January 31, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET.

Surprises and Shifts: The Case of Purdue

This week has been less forgiving for Purdue, which has plummeted out of the top 10 entirely following two back-to-back losses. The Boilermakers drop eight spots after struggling to maintain previous form, while Illinois makes a notable entry into the top 10 as well. This shake-up highlights the unpredictable nature of the season, where rankings can shift drastically in the face of unexpected defeats.

Notable Risers and Fallers

Beyond Nebraska, other teams are making headlines with their performances. North Carolina has surged up six spots in the rankings, while Kansas and Arkansas have both climbed five. Meanwhile, Alabama faces a slump, dropping six positions, alongside Houston and Clemson, both sinking four spots each. Virginia, Vanderbilt, and Florida also experienced three-position drops, showcasing the competitive landscape across the nation.

Spotlight Players and Records

Several individual performances have also caught the spotlight this season. Yaxel Lendeborg from Michigan leads the nation in the plus-minus statistic, demonstrating his significant impact on games. Nebraska’s record-tying wins showcase their powerful offensive and defensive capabilities. Moreover, standout players such as Keaton Wagler from Illinois set new records, scoring 46 points against Purdue—indicating the high-stakes nature of this season.

Upcoming Matches To Watch

As the season progresses, intriguing matchups lie ahead. Arizona faces a potential challenge against BYU on January 30, while Nebraska looks to solidify their high standing against Michigan. Each game adds another layer to the unfolding story of this remarkable season, where teams vie for supremacy as tournament season approaches.

Final Rankings Snapshot

Here’s a snapshot of today’s top 10 in the AP Poll:

1. Arizona (20-0)

   • Next Game: @ BYU, January 30, 2026, 9 PM ET

2. UConn (19-1)

   • Next Game: vs. Providence, January 31, 2026, 7:30 PM ET

3. Michigan (18-1)

   • Next Game: vs. Nebraska, January 31, 2026, 7 PM ET

4. Duke (18-1)

   • Next Game: vs. Louisville, January 30, 2026, 7 PM ET

5. Nebraska (20-0)

   • Next Game: @ Michigan, January 31, 2026, 7 PM ET

These matches provide a glimpse into the competitive spirit driving this NCAA season, as teams continue to strive for excellence on the court. Keep an eye on how the next set of games unfolds, as each contest influences the rankings and narratives of this thrilling basketball season.