Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of the 2025–26 Season
The new Big 12 basketball season has officially tipped off, ushering in the second year of the 16-team era. This campaign, the conference aims to reclaim its reputation as the nation’s strongest basketball league.
Conference Outlook
Last season, the Big 12 slightly trailed the SEC but still delivered an outstanding year. Seven teams earned NCAA Tournament bids, with Houston reaching the National Championship Game. The Cougars, led by coach Kelvin Sampson, enter this season favored to repeat as champions and pursue a third consecutive regular-season title.
Freshman Standouts
- BYU’s AJ Dybantsa
- Kansas’ Darryn Peterson – ranked as the nation’s No. 2 recruit
- Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou
- Houston’s Chris Cenac
- Arizona’s Koa Peat
These rising stars add excitement and depth to the league, making the Big 12 one of the most talented conferences in college basketball again this year.
Top Contenders
Four teams – Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona – reached the Sweet 16 last season. Each returns with strong rosters that could push deeper into the tournament this year.
“Every Monday during the college hoops season, KSL Sports will release weekly Big 12 basketball power rankings.”
Houston’s New Look
Although Houston features a younger squad this time, the program’s highly rated freshman class, anchored by Chris Cenac, keeps them firmly in contention for the conference crown.
Author’s Summary
The Big 12 enters 2025–26 with powerhouse programs, elite freshmen, and familiar contenders vying to reestablish the league as college basketball’s best.