College basketball rankings have shifted dramatically as Purdue and Texas Tech made significant leaps, while Kentucky faced a notable decline.
On Saturday, February 1st, fans witnessed a whirlwind of unexpected outcomes, with 11 AP-ranked teams suffering losses. Among those, eight of the top 15 teams fell, including top-10 squads Iowa State, Houston, and Marquette, all of whom lost at home.
As conference play intensified across the nation, certain matchups and coaching strategies emerged as potential pitfalls for teams, leading to surprising results. Kansas State’s 80-61 victory over Iowa State showcased how the Wildcats delivered a shocking Quad 3 home defeat to the Cyclones.
Houston, riding high on a 13-game winning streak and boasting a 23-1 record in their last 24 Big 12 contests, faced a stunning upset at the hands of Texas Tech. Despite losing forward JT Toppin and coach Grant McCasland to ejections, the Red Raiders triumphed 82-81 in overtime, thanks in part to senior guard Chance McMillan’s clutch free throws. Meanwhile, Marquette, trailing by 22 points at home against a UConn team missing Liam McNeeley, suffered a defeat that dropped them from the top 10.
The unpredictable nature of college basketball was on full display, highlighted by Tennessee’s loss to Kentucky, followed by an impressive 20-point victory against a previously top-five Florida team, despite missing key players Zakai Zeigler and Igor Milicic. Kentucky, however, faced their own unraveling, as John Calipari’s squad fell apart on Saturday night. Missouri also made headlines, dominating Mississippi State with a 27-point victory in Starkville, showcasing the surprises that Saturday’s games delivered.
Tom Izzo’s quest for Bob Knight’s Big Ten wins record hit a snag in Los Angeles, where Michigan State lost 70-64 to USC. Kansas, on the other hand, experienced a historic collapse, squandering a 21-point lead against Baylor, allowing 60 points in the second half and dropping to 6-4 in the Big 12. This inconsistency raises concerns about the Jayhawks finishing outside the top three in their league for the first time in over 40 years.
With the drama of the weekend in the rearview mirror, it’s time to review the updated Top 25 rankings!
1. Auburn (20-1)
The Tigers continued their dominance, defeating Ole Miss with double-doubles from Johni Broome and Dylan Cardwell, alongside 18 points from Chad Baker-Mazara. With a 20-1 record, they remain undefeated in the SEC, widely regarded as the toughest conference in college basketball.
2. Duke (19-2)
The Blue Devils showcased their strength by defeating UNC 87-70, led by standout performances from Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel. Flagg contributed 21 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Knueppel added 22 points, solidifying their position as a formidable force in the ACC.
3. Alabama (19-3)
The Crimson Tide secured a victory against Georgia, thanks to 20 points from Mark Sears and a total of 11 three-pointers. Their offensive versatility and potential for growth remain impressive.
4. Tennessee (18-4)
Despite a home loss to Kentucky, the Volunteers bounced back with a commanding win over Florida, demonstrating resilience even without key players. Their performance keeps them firmly in the top five.
5. Purdue (17-5)
The Boilermakers, led by standout point guard Braden Smith, saw Trey Kaufman-Renn shine in their recent win against Indiana, solidifying their position in the rankings.
6. Texas Tech (17-4)
With a dynamic offense, the Red Raiders have climbed into the top 10 in KenPom and Torvik rankings. Their victory at Houston and a 17-4 record highlight their impressive season.
7. Houston (17-4)
Although Saturday’s loss was disappointing, the Cougars had previously secured 13 consecutive victories. Milos Uzan’s struggles and Emanuel Sharp’s injury have raised questions about their current form.
8. Iowa State (17-4)
Despite a disappointing loss, the Cyclones’ earlier performance in a double-overtime game against Arizona shows their potential. They remain in the top 10, as many believe they can bounce back.
9. Missouri (17-4)
The Tigers have found their rhythm, winning five of their last six games, including a significant victory at Florida, boosting their confidence.
10. Florida (18-3)
The Gators struggled in their recent loss, shooting only 25% from the field. Despite this setback, their earlier victory over Tennessee keeps them in the rankings.
11. St. John’s (19-3)
12. Michigan State (18-3)
13. Texas A&M (17-5)
14. Memphis (18-4)
15. Marquette (18-4)
16. Kentucky (15-6)
17. Arizona (15-6)
18. Clemson (18-4)
19. Kansas (15-6)
20. UConn (16-6)
21. Maryland (17-5)
22. Saint Mary’s (20-3)
23. Michigan (16-5)
24. Creighton (16-6)
25. Illinois (15-7)
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