Unmissable Men's College Basketball Games: The AP's Top Picks
As the season approaches, get ready for an exciting lineup of games featuring top-ranked teams. Here's a sneak peek at some of the most anticipated matches, according to the AP's preseason rankings.
The Bluegrass Battle Returns
Mark your calendars for November 11th! Kentucky and Louisville will face off in a highly anticipated top-25 showdown, the first since the 2019-20 season. Led by SEC Player of the Year Otega Oweh, Kentucky aims to dominate early. Louisville, under Pat Kelsey's leadership, will be eager to prove themselves. Expect a thrilling display of talent at the KFC Yum! Center.
Creighton's New Look, Iowa State's Resilience
On November 25th, Creighton and Iowa State will battle it out in the Players Era Championship. Creighton faces a transformation with the departure of key players Ryan Kalkbrenner and Steven Ashworth. However, the team welcomes fresh talent like Jackson McAndrew, Owen Freeman, and Josh Dix. Iowa State, despite significant roster changes, welcomes back Tamin Lipsey and Milan Momcilovic, ready to take on the challenge.
National Title Contenders Clash
Get ready for a December 2nd showdown between Florida and Duke! Both teams are national title contenders, with Florida boasting Alex Condon, Boogie Fland, and Thomas Haugh, all earning preseason All-SEC honors. Duke, led by the Boozer brothers, is determined to bounce back from last season's near-miss. Despite losing their starting lineup, the Blue Devils are poised for a strong return.
St. John's vs. Kentucky: A Pitino Reunion
In the CBS Sports Classic on December 20th, St. John's and Kentucky will reunite with their shared history under Rick Pitino. Kentucky, under Mark Pope's guidance, showcases its potential. St. John's, with a stellar transfer class, including Zuby Ejiofor, Ian Jackson, and Bryce Hopkins, is set to make a statement.
Texas Tech vs. Duke: A New Battle
On the same day, Texas Tech and Duke will face off, with Duke's roster undergoing a makeover. Texas Tech, without Darrion Williams, relies on All-American JT Toppin, a strong contender for Big 12 Player of the Year.
Tennessee's Rise, Arkansas' Quest
January 3rd brings a clash between Tennessee and Arkansas. Tennessee welcomes new additions like Nate Ament and Ja'Kobi Gillespie, while Arkansas, under John Calipari's second year, aims for success with Karter Knox and D.J. Wagner leading the way.
Purdue's Championship Quest
Purdue, a national title contender, features star guard Braden Smith as the Preseason Wooden Award favorite. The team's depth is impressive, with forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, who performed exceptionally in the 2024-25 season. UCLA, with the addition of Donovan Dent, a potential Big Ten Player of the Year, is also a force to be reckoned with.
Houston vs. BYU: A National Title Rematch
Houston, just one possession away from a national title, welcomes back three starters, including Joseph Tugler, the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. BYU, with Richie Saunders and AJ Dybantsa, forms a dynamic duo. This match is a highlight of the Big 12 schedule.
Reviving the Michigan-Duke Rivalry
February 21st marks the return of the Michigan-Duke rivalry, last seen in 2013. Michigan, among national championship contenders, adds Yaxel Lendeborg and Elliot Cadeau, both with All-Big Ten potential. Duke, despite recent challenges, is determined to reclaim its glory.
Iron Bowl Extends to the Court
Auburn and Alabama, both among the top teams last season, will battle on February 7th and March 7th. The Iron Bowl's intensity extends to the basketball court, with both teams' lead guards, Tahaad Pettiford and Labaron Philon Jr., earning preseason All-SEC recognition.
Kansas vs. Arizona: Redemption and Reload
Kansas, led by top recruit Darryn Peterson, seeks redemption after a disappointing past season under Bill Self. Arizona, after losing Carter Bryant and Caleb Love, welcomes Jaden Bradley and Koa Peat, ready to make a comeback.
