Purdue University has reclaimed the top spot in the AP Top 25 men’s college basketball rankings as of November 17, 2025. The Boilermakers surpassed Houston, which held the No. 1 position for just one week. This latest poll reflects a competitive landscape, with several teams vying for the top ranks.
Purdue Takes No. 1 Spot
Purdue earned 44 first-place votes after achieving significant victories, including a road win over then-No. 8 Alabama and a match against Akron. Head coach Matt Painter celebrated his 500th career win last weekend and emphasized the team’s need for focus amid the excitement of their triumphs.
Top Rankings
- 1. Purdue (44 votes) – Record: 4-0
- 2. Houston (12 votes) – Record: 4-0
- 3. UConn (2 votes) – Record: 4-0
- 4. Arizona (2 votes) – Record: 4-0
- 5. Duke (1 vote) – Record: 4-0
- 6. Louisville – Record: 4-0
- 7. Michigan – Record: 3-0
- 8. Illinois – Record: 4-0
- 9. BYU – Record: 3-1
- 10. Florida – Record: 3-1
Louisville and Illinois both made notable climbs in the rankings. Louisville moved up six spots after defeating then-No. 9 Kentucky, while Illinois rose nine positions following impressive performances. The Illini are experiencing their highest ranking since they peaked at No. 6 two seasons ago.
Competitive Landscape
UConn maintained its No. 3 position with a recent victory over then-No. 7 BYU. They face challenges ahead, with upcoming games against Arizona and Illinois. Meanwhile, Arizona gained momentum after a victory over UCLA, which resulted in a drop for the Blue Devils.
Conference Performance
The rankings reflect a strong showing from various conferences. The Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC each have six teams in the Top 25, with three from both the Big Ten and Big 12 making the top 10. The ACC follows with four ranked teams, while the Big East and West Coast Conference have two and one, respectively.
Watch List
- San Diego State is the leading team outside the Top 25.
- Indiana is also making a mark, appearing on 18 ballots.
- Georgetown holds potential as it entered the week with a 4-0 record.
As teams adjust to the pressure of their elevated rankings, maintaining focus and discipline will be key to their continued success in the season ahead. The competitive spirit within college basketball promises exciting matchups and unforeseen outcomes as teams vie for supremacy.
