The fourth week of the 2025-26 Men’s AP Top 25 Poll reveals dynamic shifts in standings following a competitive week in college basketball. Key teams experienced significant movement, impacting their rankings and upcoming matchups.
Top Teams and Their Rankings
Purdue remains at the top, securing the No. 1 spot with a flawless record of 7-0. Arizona follows closely in second place, also undefeated, while Michigan has made a notable rise to No. 3 after starting 7-0. Duke and UConn round out the top five.
Key Changes in the AP Top 25
- Michigan: Climbed to No. 3 after winning the 2025 Players Era Festival. They currently have three Quad 1 wins and rank first in the NET rankings.
- Vanderbilt: Achieved the largest leap, progressing seven spots to No. 17.
- Michigan State: Advanced four places to No. 7, marking its best start since 2015-16.
- Kansas: Returned to the Top 25 after a brief absence.
- St. John’s: Suffered the biggest decline, dropping nine spots to No. 23.
Significant Statistics and Player Highlights
- Braden Smith of Purdue: Moved to second place on the Big Ten all-time assists list with 821 assists, aiming to surpass Cassius Winston’s record of 890.
- Cameron Boozer of Duke: Became the first Duke player in 45 years to record multiple 35-point games shooting over 70% in a season.
- Aden Holloway of Alabama: Achieved standout performances, averaging 20 points and hitting five three-pointers in 75% accuracy over two games.
Upcoming Matchups
As teams look to continue their momentum, key games are set for the week:
- Purdue will face Rutgers on Tuesday at 8 p.m. on FS1.
- Michigan takes on Rutgers on Saturday at 4 p.m. on BTN.
- Duke will challenge Florida in the ACC/SEC Men’s Challenge on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN.
- UConn confronts Kansas on Tuesday at 9 p.m. on ESPN2.
- Vanderbilt goes against SMU on Wednesday at 9:15 p.m. on the SEC Network.
Looking Ahead: Trends and Observations
The early season has showcased a mix of expected performances from teams like Purdue and UConn, alongside surprising developments from programs such as Michigan and Vanderbilt. The consistency of powerhouse programs will be tested as the season progresses, with intriguing matchups on the horizon.
Keep an eye on player statistics and team dynamics as the season unfolds, as the competition intensifies heading into the holiday break.
