The pursuit of a 30-win season in college basketball is a significant marker of excellence. Historical data shows that since the 2013-14 season, the majority of national champions have won at least 28 games. In particular, 93 teams achieved 30 wins during this period, underscoring the importance of reaching this milestone for championship contenders.
17 College Basketball Teams Poised for 30 Wins in 2025-26
This upcoming college basketball season features several teams with the potential to secure 30 wins. Here are 17 teams that have the depth, talent, and experience necessary to achieve this goal.
Key Teams to Watch
- Brigham Young University (BYU): With potential No. 1 draft pick AJ Dybantsa and other top talents, BYU aims to improve upon last season’s 26 wins.
- Duke University: Centered around Cameron Boozer, who had an impressive exhibition performance, Duke seeks to leverage its strong freshman class for a 30-win season.
- University of Florida: Led by elite guards including Alex Condon, the Gators hope to repeat last season’s success and secure another national title.
- Gonzaga University: Known for consistency, Mark Few’s team could dominate the West Coast Conference, aiming for a ninth 30-win season.
- University of Houston: Under Kelvin Sampson and aided by a strong roster, Houston is set to extend its streak of 30-plus wins.
- University of Kentucky: With SEC Player of the Year Otega Oweh and returning veterans, Kentucky is poised to chase after 30 wins this season.
- University of Louisville: Coach Pat Kelsey has crafted a competitive roster, aiming for a repeat performance after last season’s 30-win mark.
- Miami University (Ohio): With a returning core of key players, Miami hopes to build on last year’s 25 wins and reach 30.
- McNeese State University: After winning 28 games last season, McNeese aims to continue its upward trajectory with standout players ready to shine.
- University of Michigan: Despite facing challenges, Coach Juwan Howard’s squad has the talent to vie for a 30-win campaign in the Big Ten.
- Purdue University: With Braden Smith as a frontrunner for the Wooden Award, Purdue looks to replicate their previous success and push for 30 wins.
- St. John’s University: With Zuby Ejiofor leading a strong squad, St. John’s has the ingredients to reach 30 wins in a competitive Big East.
- Texas Tech University: Benefiting from strong transfers and returning stars, Texas Tech is primed for another shot at 30 wins.
- University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB): After a robust performance, UCSB aims for their own 30-win season amidst a competitive landscape.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): With favorable matchups and coaching prowess, UCLA aims to maximize their non-conference schedule for a shot at 30 wins.
- University of Connecticut (UConn): Dan Hurley returns experienced players and fresh talent with aspirations for a three-peat in the hunt for 30 wins.
- University of North Carolina Wilmington: With a strong transfer class and returning contributors, UNC Wilmington aims for an improved season following their last campaign.
The upcoming 2025-26 season promises excitement as these collegiate teams aim for significant milestones. The combination of skilled players, effective coaching, and favorable conditions may well lead to a high number of wins, reinforcing the importance of the 30-win benchmark in college basketball.
