College Basketball Rankings: Final Top 10 of the Regular Season With Significant Changes Ahead of the NCAA Tournament…..

As the college basketball season heads into the final stretch before the NCAA Tournament, the rankings have undergone a major shakeup. Teams that were once on top have seen their fortunes change, while others have surged in the closing weeks, positioning themselves for a strong postseason run. With Selection Sunday just around the corner, here’s a look at the final regular-season Top 10 rankings and how these teams got there.

1. Kansas Jayhawks The Kansas Jayhawks have solidified their position as the top team in the nation heading into March Madness. With a strong finish to the regular season and a dominant performance in the Big 12, Kansas has remained consistent all year long. Their balance of experienced veterans and rising stars has made them a tough opponent for anyone. Head coach Bill Self has once again crafted a team that is capable of making a deep tournament run. The Jayhawks’ offense, led by standout guard Jalen Wilson and center KJ Adams, is potent, and their defense remains one of the best in the country.

2. Purdue Boilermakers Purdue has been one of the most dominant teams in college basketball this season, and they’ve stayed near the top of the rankings throughout the regular season. Center Zach Edey, a front-runner for Player of the Year honors, has been a matchup nightmare for opponents. His size, skill, and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor have helped elevate Purdue’s status as a top contender. Although they stumbled a bit down the stretch, their body of work throughout the season has earned them a place near the top of the rankings.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide Alabama has had an incredible regular season, with standout performances from star freshman Brandon Miller. Their high-paced, aggressive play has made them one of the most dangerous teams in the nation. Alabama’s ability to shoot the three-ball and score in transition has made them a nightmare for opponents. They finished strong in the SEC and will be one of the top teams to watch during the NCAA Tournament. Their blend of talent, speed, and depth makes them a formidable threat.

4. Houston Cougars Houston has been a consistent force all year, especially in the American Athletic Conference. Their elite defense, led by senior Marcus Sasser, has kept them at the top of the rankings. Houston’s ability to lock down opponents and make stops in critical moments has made them one of the most respected teams in the nation. Though they may not have the same star power as some of the other top teams, their defensive prowess and tough mindset will serve them well in the tournament.

5. Texas Longhorns Texas has been one of the most impressive teams in the nation, especially down the stretch. Their roster is filled with talent, including standouts like Marcus Carr and Sir’Jabari Rice, and they’ve proven to be a tough, physical team that can match up with anyone. After a strong finish in the Big 12, the Longhorns have positioned themselves as a legitimate Final Four contender. Their defense and ability to execute in clutch moments are key strengths that will carry them through the tournament.

6. UCLA Bruins UCLA has proven to be one of the most consistent teams in college basketball, with a balanced roster and strong coaching from Mick Cronin. They finished the regular season strong in the Pac-12, relying on veteran leadership from players like Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Tyger Campbell. UCLA’s defense is among the best in the country, and their ability to execute in close games makes them a dangerous team in March. With an experienced roster and solid fundamentals, the Bruins are poised to make a deep tournament run.

7. Arizona Wildcats Arizona has had a solid season, with a potent offense led by star forward Azuolas Tubelis. The Wildcats have been able to dominate in the paint, using their size and athleticism to overpower opponents. While their defense has had its ups and downs, Arizona’s offensive firepower has carried them through the regular season. Their ability to play up-tempo and score in bunches will make them a tough matchup for anyone in the tournament.

8. Baylor Bears Baylor has made a strong late-season push, earning their spot in the top 10 with a series of impressive wins. They’ve relied on the playmaking ability of guard Keyonte George and the leadership of senior Adam Flagler. Baylor’s offense has been explosive, and their defense has improved as the season has progressed. As they head into the NCAA Tournament, the Bears are looking to make a run similar to their championship season in 2021.

9. Tennessee Volunteers Tennessee has been one of the top defensive teams in the country, with a tough, physical style that has given opponents trouble all season. Led by Zakai Zeigler and Santiago Vescovi, Tennessee has managed to stay competitive despite some offensive inconsistencies. Their defense, particularly their ability to force turnovers and dominate the glass, will be crucial in the tournament. While they may not have the same offensive firepower as some of the other teams, Tennessee’s defense gives them a shot at making a deep run.

10. Marquette Golden Eagles Marquette has quietly been one of the most impressive teams in the nation this season. Their balanced attack, led by point guard Tyler Kolek and forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper, has made them a force in the Big East. Marquette’s ability to play both up-tempo and with physicality has made them a tough team to beat. With a strong finish to the regular season, Marquette enters the tournament with a lot of momentum and will look to make a surprise run to the Final Four.

Looking Ahead to March Madness

The final regular-season rankings reflect a wide-open tournament picture, with no clear-cut favorite among the top teams. While Kansas and Purdue may be seen as the two most complete teams, the depth of talent across the board suggests that any of the teams in the Top 10 could make a run to the championship. The NCAA Tournament has historically been a time for upsets, and this year promises to be no different.

With Selection Sunday approaching, these teams will be looking to solidify their seeding and prepare for the madness that comes with March. For many, this will be their final chance to make a statement on the national stage. The combination of veteran experience, emerging stars, and high-level coaching should make for an exciting and unpredictable tournament.

As always, the NCAA Tournament is a time when anything can happen, and the final regular-season rankings are just the starting point. Fans can expect plenty of drama, excitement, and surprises

as the road to the Final Four begins.