Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 of 2025-26 Season
The 2025-26 Big 12 basketball season has officially begun, marking the second year with 16 teams competing. Expectations are high for the conference to regain its position as the nation's top basketball league. Despite last year’s rise of the SEC, the Big 12 showcased its strength with seven teams making the NCAA Tournament, including Houston reaching the National Championship Game.
Top Team and Title Chase
Houston, led by coach Kelvin Sampson, remains the favorite to secure a third straight regular-season title. The team is younger than usual this year, fueled by a notable freshman class headed by Chris Cenac.
Freshman Stars to Watch
- 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
These freshmen highlight the depth of talent entering the Big 12 this season and are expected to make significant impacts.
Sweet 16 Contenders
Last season, four Big 12 teams reached the Sweet 16: Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona. These teams look poised to perform equally well or better this year.
Weekly Updates
KSL Sports will release weekly Big 12 basketball power rankings every Monday throughout the college basketball season to keep fans informed on team progress.
"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 enters the 2025-26 season with strong teams, exciting freshmen, and Houston aiming for a third straight title, signaling another competitive year ahead.