The AP men's basketball preseason rankings are out, and they're sparking debates! For the first time, Purdue claims the top spot, but is this their year to shine?
Purdue's Rise to the Top:
In a historic moment, Purdue secures the No. 1 position in the AP preseason rankings, a first for the program. While preseason rankings are just a glimpse, they mirror the Boilermakers' ascent to the elite level. Before the 2021-22 season, they had never been ranked No. 1, but Matt Painter's squad has consistently topped the charts for at least a week each season over the last three years.
The Boilermakers' Dominance:
Purdue's recent success is undeniable, with 13 weeks at the top, surpassing Auburn and Houston. With Trey Kaufman-Renn and Braden Smith, both All-American candidates, the team aims for their second Final Four in three seasons. Could they end the Big Ten's 26-year championship drought?
The Top Five:
The preseason top five includes Houston, Florida, UConn, and St. John's, with Purdue leading the way. Kelvin Sampson's Houston Cougars return three starters from the national championship game, including defensive powerhouse JoJo Tugler. Meanwhile, Florida, the reigning champions, lost key players but retained their frontcourt strength.
The Contenders:
Duke, at No. 6, faces a rebuild after losing the No. 1 NBA Draft pick. Auburn, at No. 20, undergoes a coaching change with Steven Pearl taking over. North Carolina, the last team to make the NCAA Tournament, sneaks into the rankings at No. 25, adding intrigue to the ACC race.
Conference Supremacy:
The Big 12, Big Ten, and SEC dominate with six teams each in the top 25. The Big Ten, in particular, could be this season's powerhouse, with potential for 14 teams to crack the Top 25 at some point. But which conference will reign supreme?
Controversial Rankings:
St. John's, ranked fifth by voters, is a point of contention. Some argue that their frontcourt strength and Rick Pitino's coaching make them a top team. Others, like myself, question the consistency of key players and the unproven nature of their perimeter transfers. Is this a case of recency bias, or are the voters onto something?
The Hype Train:
Purdue's hype is real, but is it justified? With a talented roster and a promising freshman guard, Omer Mayer, they seem like a safe bet. But in the unpredictable world of college basketball, anything can happen.
The Debate Continues:
As the season unfolds, these rankings will be scrutinized. Is Purdue destined for greatness, or will another team steal the spotlight? Which conference will rise above the rest? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below. The court is open for discussion!
