Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of 2025-26 Season
The new Big 12 basketball season has officially begun, marking the second year of the conference's 16-team structure. Expectations are high as the Big 12 aims to regain its status as the premier basketball conference in the nation.
Season Outlook
Last season, the Big 12 was overshadowed by the SEC but still showcased strength with seven teams qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. Houston notably advanced to the National Championship Game and remains the favorite, pursuing a third straight regular-season title under coach Kelvin Sampson.
Key Freshmen to Watch
- AJ Dybantsa of BYU
- Darryn Peterson at Kansas, the nation’s No. 2 recruit
- Tounde Yessoufou from Baylor
- Chris Cenac at Houston
- Koa Peat of Arizona
These freshmen are expected to make significant impacts for their teams and the conference overall.
Powerhouse Teams
Four Big 12 teams reached the Sweet 16 last year: Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona. These squads look poised to perform at the same high level, if not better, this season.
Weekly Rankings Coverage
KSL Sports will provide weekly Big 12 power rankings every Monday throughout the college basketball season.
“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.”
Fans have much to look forward to as this younger and talented group steps up to compete.
Author's summary: The Big 12 begins a promising 2025-26 season with Houston leading once more and a surge of star freshmen set to reshape the conference landscape.
Would you like the tone to be more analytical or more casual?