Lawrence, Kansas – The AP Top 25 preseason men’s college basketball rankings for the 2024-2025 season have been unveiled, and the Kansas Jayhawks have topped the list for the second consecutive year. This marks the program’s fifth time earning the preseason No. 1 spot, positioning them third all-time for the most appearances at the top.
The Jayhawks are coming off a challenging campaign where they were knocked out in the NCAA tournament’s second round by Gonzaga. However, they are eager to make a deeper run this year. Hunter Dickinson, named Preseason Player of the Year for the second straight year, leads the charge, supported by teammates like Dajuan Harris Jr., who has secured a spot on the preseason All-Big 12 Second Team. Kansas has also welcomed top-tier recruits, including Flory Bidunga and Rakease Passmore, who are expected to bolster their championship aspirations.
Following Kansas in the rankings is Alabama at No. 2, while the defending champions, UConn, hold the No. 3 position after capturing their second straight title in April. Dan Hurley, head coach of UConn, opted to stay with the team rather than take a position with the Los Angeles Lakers, aiming for a historic three-peat. The Huskies are set to benefit from returning players like Alex Karaban and Samson Johnson, while also adding standout guard Aidan Mahaney from Saint Mary’s and several promising freshmen.
This year, only two of last season’s Final Four teams have made it back into the top spots, with Purdue, which reached the Final Four last season, currently ranked No. 14. Interestingly, NC State, another 2023 Final Four team, did not make it onto this year’s rankings.
The rankings showcase a mix of excitement and high expectations as teams prepare to face new competition and tackle upcoming seasons. Schools entering new conferences will have the added challenge of adjusting to unfamiliar opponents and environments, which can significantly impact their performances. With the season approaching, basketball fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an engaging and competitive year ahead.
