October 31, 11:00 pm
College basketball enters the season amid major uncertainty surrounding the NCAA's new eligibility rules. Hundreds of players have been involved in legal challenges over their ability to compete, leaving several programs unsure of their final rosters. The ongoing disputes could significantly impact conference races and NCAA Tournament projections throughout the season.
October 31, 11:15 pm
After winning the 2026 national championship, Michigan enters the new season with a completely different outlook. The Wolverines lost head coach Dusty May, four starters, and several important pieces from last year's roster. Ranked No. 16 in our preseason rankings, Michigan faces major questions about its ability to repeat.
October 31, 11:30 pm
Coming off its first Final Four appearance in 21 years, Illinois enters the 2026–27 season ranked No. 5 in our rankings. With five of its top eight scorers returning, Brad Underwood's squad has the experience and talent to compete for a Big Ten title and another deep NCAA Tournament run. Despite losing leading scorer Keaton Wagler to the NBA, the Fighting Illini enter the season with championship expectations and hopes of making back-to-back Final Four appearances.
October 31, 11:45 pm
For the first time in years, Purdue enters the 2026–27 season outside the preseason Top 25, ending a streak of 79 consecutive AP poll appearances. The Boilermakers face significant questions after losing key contributors Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, Trey Kaufman-Renn, and Oscar Cluff from last season's Elite Eight team. Despite these departures, head coach Matt Painter will look to keep Purdue competitive in a loaded Big Ten conference. Purdue will have an immediate opportunity to prove itself when it opens the season against ranked Gonzaga on November 2, hoping to begin its climb back into the national rankings.
Duke
Florida
UCLA - UCLA got a big win to start the season against Arizona and quickly climbed in the Top 25 rankings, sneaking into the Top 10.
Virginia - Virginia looked great in a neutral matchup against Arkansas and came to show they are the real deal this season.
Saint Louis - Saint Louis got a good win against Missouri to start the season and officially have Robbie Avila coming back to join them, making their roster and experience even stronger going forward.
Michigan State
UConn
Oklahoma - Oklahoma suffered a horrific defeat against East Texas A&M, followed with a close game against North Alabama which raises many concerns about if their squad can compete in the SEC this season. If they fail to compete, Porter Moser will likely be on his way out.
Purdue - Purdue picked up a tough loss at home against Valparaiso and struggled for much of the game against Illinois State. Losing their core from the past few seasons seems to have come with a tough recovery as they could have a tough time in the Big Ten this season.
Washington State - Three straight loses to mid-major teams to start the year and with many tough games on their schedule this year, will likely be fighting to achieve a .500 record.