AP Top 25 Poll Overview: Stability at the Top
As of December 15, 2025, the latest men’s Associated Press (AP) Top 25 poll reveals a striking degree of stability among the nation’s elite college basketball teams. Arizona retains its honor as the top squad, a position that has become solidified thanks to an impressive season that showcases both resilience and exceptional talent.
The Unshakable Arizona Wildcats
Arizona stands tall at No. 1, boasting an undefeated record of 9-0. This remarkable start includes a historical feat: the Wildcats were the first Division I team in AP poll history to win five games against ranked opponents in their first nine outings of a season. Their latest victory, a commanding 96-75 win against Alabama, cemented their dominance and showcased their ability to compete at the highest level. Looking ahead, they will face Abilene Christian, a game that fans are eagerly anticipating.
The Michigan Wolverines: Strong Contenders
Following closely behind are the Michigan Wolverines, who hold the No. 2 position with a perfect 10-0 record. Their recent performance has been nothing short of spectacular, as they recently scored 100 points in a game for the fifth time in ten contests, equaling a record set by the legendary 1988-89 team, which eventually captured a national title. Fans are eagerly awaiting their matchup against La Salle this Sunday.
Duke and Iowa State Keep Pace
Duke, currently at No. 3 with an unblemished 10-0 record, continues to impress, although they have not played since their decisive win over Michigan State earlier this month. Iowa State (No. 4, 11-0) mirrors Duke’s success and maintains its unbeaten streak for the third time in program history. Both teams are proving to be formidable obstacles on their quests for the championship.
UConn and Purdue: Consistency Defined
The University of Connecticut, ranked fifth and sitting at 10-1, has had a strong season that echoes their previous two championship runs. Purdue, at No. 6 with a record of 10-1, is riding an impressive wave of victories against unranked teams, marking their longest stretch of success since the 2022-23 season. Each of these teams is showing signs of resilience as they prepare for their upcoming games.
Gonzaga and Houston: Minor Shifts in Rankings
In a slight shuffle, Gonzaga (now ranked 7) and Houston (ranked 8) have traded spots in the rankings. Gonzaga remains a critical player in the conversation, achieving double-digit margins in all their victories, while Houston is proving its mettle by winning games by significant margins, including a 99-57 rout of New Orleans.
Notable Entrants: Georgia Rises to the Occasion
Among the notable newcomers to this week’s poll, Georgia has made waves by displacing UCLA. They currently sit in 25th place with a noteworthy 9-1 record and lead the nation in scoring. Their recent 84-65 victory against Cincinnati showcases their offensive firepower, although they struggled to maintain their scoring average after an extended break.
Upcoming Highlights
Every team in the Top 25 has crucial matchups on the horizon, and fans are marking their calendars in anticipation. Arizona’s game against Abilene Christian, Michigan’s encounter with La Salle, and UConn’s clash against Butler are just a few of the highlights coming up this week.
Statistical highlights abound as the season progresses, drawing the attention of analysts and fans alike. As the rankings solidify, the competition will only intensify, making each game ever more critical in the pursuit of national glory.
With strong performances, historic milestones, and much-anticipated matchups, the landscape of college basketball remains vibrant and compelling, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.