As the 2025-26 college basketball season approaches, Dick Vitale has released his preseason rankings for the top 25 men's teams, providing insights into the upcoming competition.

Leading the pack is the Purdue Boilermakers, ranked first, who return five of their top six scorers, including Trey Kaufman-Renn and Braden Smith, while also adding two significant transfers.

Following closely is the Houston Cougars, who are ranked second after finishing as national runners-up with a 36-4 record, bolstered by key returning players and a strong recruiting class.

The reigning national champions, Florida Gators, come in at third, featuring key players Alex Condon and Thomas Haugh, alongside top transfers Xaivian Lee and Boogie Fland.

Texas Tech Red Raiders, ranked fourth, benefit from the return of All-American JT Toppin and a strong transfer class, looking to improve on their Elite Eight finish.

St. John's Red Storm, under Rick Pitino, is positioned fifth, compensating for lost key players with a top transfer class and aiming for success in the Big East.

UConn Huskies, ranked sixth, expect to rebound from a down year with key returning players and a promising backcourt, enhancing their Final Four aspirations.

The BYU Cougars, coming in at seventh, feature a roster that includes a projected top NBA draft pick and key contributors from last season's Sweet 16 team.

Arkansas Razorbacks, ranked eighth, bring back stars D.J. Wagner and Trevon Brazile, complemented by promising freshmen Darius Acuff and Meleek Thomas.

The Louisville Cardinals, ranked ninth, have replaced departing scorers with top transfer talents and a five-star freshman, aiming for a strong season.

UCLA Bruins, positioned tenth, are led by Tyler Bilodeau and Eric Dailey Jr., featuring a talented lineup that includes several impactful transfers.

Overall, the rankings reflect a competitive landscape for the upcoming season, with teams like North Carolina and Duke also looking to make significant impacts.