Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of 2025-26 Season
The new season of Big 12 basketball has begun, promising another competitive year in the 16-team conference era. The Big 12 aims to regain its position as the nation’s top basketball conference in 2025-26.
Last Season's Performance
Although the Big 12 trailed behind the SEC last year, it still had a notable season. Seven teams qualified for the NCAA Tournament, including Houston, which advanced to the National Championship Game.
“The Coogs look to be the favorite once again in the Big 12, as Kelvin Sampson’s squad is chasing a third consecutive regular-season title.”
Rising Freshman Stars
This season features a standout freshman class, including:
- AJ Dybantsa from BYU
- Darryn Peterson, the nation’s No. 2 recruit, at Kansas
- Tounde Yessoufou from Baylor
- Chris Cenac from Houston
- Koa Peat from Arizona
Strong Contenders Returning
Last season, four Big 12 teams reached the Sweet 16: Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona. These programs appear poised to remain strong contenders this year.
“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.”
Weekly Coverage
KSL Sports will provide weekly Big 12 basketball power rankings every Monday throughout the college hoops season.
Author’s summary: The Big 12 enters 2025-26 with top contenders returning and impressive freshmen leading the charge as the conference seeks to reclaim national supremacy.