The latest preseason Top 25 poll reflects a landscape transformed by a wave of high‑profile returns. After the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline, dozens of projected first‑round prospects elected to remain in school, giving their programs a boost in experience, depth, and championship aspirations. The result is a roster of teams that look markedly stronger than a year ago, with several contending clubs already staking their claim.
The Returners' Impact
Florida Gators will field a frontcourt anchored by Boogie Fland and Urban Klavzar, the players who helped the team capture the national title last season. Illinois Fighting Illini bring back Andrej Stojaković and add Providence transfer Stefan Vaaks, preserving the core that made them a surprise contender. Duke Blue Devils will return four of their top six scorers and supplement the lineup with highly rated transfers and freshmen, aiming to stay among the nation's elite.
Michigan Wolverines, the reigning champions, will rely on the return of point guard Elliot Cadeau and forward Trey McKenney, giving them a realistic shot at back‑to‑back titles. UConn Huskies, despite losing Solo Ball to injury, will still have key contributors Silas Demary and Braylon Mullins ready to fill the void. Arizona Wildcats will bring back Motiejus Krivas and Ivan Kharchenkov, though they must replace standout big men Koa Peat and Tobe Awaka.
Transfer Portal Moves
The transfer market has been equally active. Tennessee Volunteers will lean on portal acquisitions to offset the loss of all five starters from last season, while Michigan State Spartans will count on point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. and forward Coen Carr to lead a revamped squad. Arkansas Razorbacks will add freshman Jordan Smith and Georgia transfer Jeremiah Wilkinson, hoping to maintain their recent momentum. Texas Longhorns are targeting a top‑three or top‑four finish in the SEC, bolstered by key transfers and returning veterans.
Houston Cougars will depend on the return of Joseph Tugler and the scoring load of incoming transfer Dedan Thomas Jr., while St. John's Red Storm will welcome Baylor transfer Tounde Yessoufou and the return of Ian Jackson, adding depth to their backcourt. Louisville Cardinals have assembled a strong transfer class and will also bring back guard Adrian Wooley, positioning them as a dark‑horse contender.
Title Contenders and Dark Horses
Gonzaga Bulldogs enter the new Pac‑12 era with the return of Braden Huff and the addition of Arizona State transfer Massamba Diop, making them the team to beat in the conference. Virginia Cavaliers will bring back four of their six leading scorers and add key transfers, while Miami Hurricanes will rely on the returns of Shelton Henderson and Dante Allen, complemented by a strong portal class. Alabama Crimson Tide will look to Amari Allen and Adel Holloway to anchor their lineup, and Vanderbilt Commodores will count on Tyler Tanner, a preseason All‑American, to lead their offense.
Nebraska Cornhuskers will lean on All‑Big Ten performer Pryce Sandfort and conference Sixth Man of the Year Braden Frager, while BYU Cougars will try to exceed expectations without their likely No. 1 NBA Draft pick, relying on point guard Rob Wright and a deep transfer pool. USC Trojans have reasons to believe their third season will be better, with key returns and talented transfer additions poised to push them up the rankings.
Overall, the 2026‑27 season promises a blend of veteran experience and fresh talent, with the returning stars and strategic portal moves reshaping the traditional power structures. Fans can expect a competitive race for the championship, as teams that capitalized on player retention look to translate that stability into sustained success.