Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of 2025-26 Season
Another exciting season of Big 12 basketball has begun, kicking off the second year of the 16-team format. The conference aims to regain its status as the top basketball league in America for 2025-26.
Big 12's Recent Success and Outlook
Last year, the Big 12 ceded some ground to the SEC but still had a strong showing, with seven teams qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. Houston notably advanced to the National Championship Game and remains the favorite to claim a third straight regular-season title under coach Kelvin Sampson.
Star Freshmen to Watch
This season features an impressive group of freshmen talent:
- AJ Dybantsa from BYU
- Darryn Peterson, the nation’s No. 2 recruit, at Kansas
- Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou
- Houston’s Chris Cenac
- Arizona’s Koa Peat
Top Teams and Expectations
Four Big 12 teams reached the Sweet 16 last season—Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona—all expected to be strong contenders again. Houston features a younger roster than usual, bolstered by a celebrated freshman class led by Chris Cenac.
Weekly Insights
Every Monday during the college basketball season, KSL Sports will provide updated weekly power rankings for Big 12 teams.
"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."
Author’s summary: The Big 12 looks poised for a competitive 2025-26 season with Houston leading a talented group, an influx of star freshmen, and several teams aiming to improve on their recent NCAA Tournament success.