Tennessee remains atop the AP Top 25 college basketball rankings this week, highlighting the Volunteers' steady dominance as teams gear up for the new year. The rankings were released on Monday, confirming Tennessee's position following their sole game during the holiday week. They defeated Middle Tennessee 82-64 to secure their No. 1 spot for the third consecutive week.
The Volunteers received 41 first-place votes from the 61-person media panel, showcasing their impressive season so far. Meanwhile, they were closely pursued by No. 2 Auburn, which garnered 20 first-place votes even without playing last week. The Tigers have been clawing away to catch up, gaining additional votes thanks to their strong performances earlier this season. Interestingly, at least one ballot went uncast for both Tennessee and Auburn again this week, making it the fourth occurrence this season.
The top 13 teams saw no changes over the week, as many ranked teams took time off during the holiday season. Iowa State, Duke, and Alabama rounded out the top five, each holding their ground with consistent performances earlier this month.
Distinctively, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) continues to assert its strength with four teams captured within the top six spots of the poll. With Tennessee's top ranking and Auburn close behind, the SEC is showing impressive depth this season, having ten teams ranked overall.
UCLA made significant strides this week, moving up seven spots to No. 15 after their spirited win against Gonzaga, 65-62. The game held significance as it marked the debut of the new Intuit Dome, home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers. Eric Dailey Jr. led the Bruins with 18 points, bringing UCLA back from trailing late in the game to secure the victory.
Gonzaga, who faced the Bruins, fell to No. 19 following their defeat. This game was pivotal for both teams; it not only affected their rankings but also highlighted the competitive nature of this year’s college basketball season.
On the other side of the rankings, No. 24 Mississippi fell significantly after losing to No. 21 Memphis, which made its way back onto the list thanks to this victory. The game illuminated the volatility typical of the AP Poll, with teams continuously jockeying for position.
With the new year approaching, all eyes will be on Arkansas, currently situated at No. 23. The team has not seen game action since last Saturday but will face Oakland soon. They are expected to test their mettle against Tennessee later this week, which could be significant for their standing going forward. Arkansas holds considerable potential, with seven players achieving double-figure scoring last time out.
To add to the intrigue of college hoops, the NET rankings reflect Arkansas at No. 43, indicating they have faced challenges but also hinting at possible upward mobility if they can secure key victories.
The depth of the SEC is undeniable as it leads all conferences with ten ranked teams. The Big Ten and Big 12 each have five teams making their way onto the rankings, trailed by the Big East, which has two.
Basketball fans can expect thrilling matchups as teams ramp up their efforts this January. Notably, with many teams still undefeated or maintaining strong records, the competition will intensify, particularly within conference play where rivalries and stakes can escalate quickly.
With the AP Poll becoming more competitive, Tennessee seems well-positioned as they look to defend their top spot against impending challenges. Meanwhile, Auburn is not far behind, eager to capitalize on any openings as the season progresses. The rankings will continue to be updated weekly, and for many teams, every game is now laden with higher stakes and the potential for significant shifts.
This week promises to be pivotal, as teams engage with their conference schedules, setting the tone for the battles to come. The SEC's dominance, along with surprises from conferences like the Big Ten and the emergence of teams like UCLA and Memphis, keeps the waters murky and exhilarating as college basketball approaches its climactic phases.