The University of Kentucky men’s basketball team saw a notable rise in the latest Associated Press Top 25 Poll, moving up to No. 4 after decisive victories over Colgate and archrival Louisville. The Wildcats, who were previously ranked No. 5, managed to edge past Duke by a narrow margin of just one point in this week’s rankings.
Tennessee continues to hold onto the No. 1 spot as the nation’s top team, with Auburn and Iowa State rounding out the second and third positions, respectively. Kentucky’s ascension solidifies the SEC’s dominance in the rankings, as eight teams from the conference now sit within the Top 25. Alabama and Florida have also made impressive moves, climbing to No. 6 and No. 7. Meanwhile, Mississippi State, Arkansas, and Missouri remain on the cusp of entering the rankings, positioned just outside the Top 25. Notably, only three SEC programs—Vanderbilt, LSU, and South Carolina—failed to receive any votes in this week’s poll.
With their current 10-1 record, the Wildcats are off to their strongest start since the 2016-2017 season, showcasing both their offensive depth and defensive prowess. As the team navigates finals week, they will enjoy a brief break before returning to action on Saturday. Kentucky will face Ohio State in the prestigious CBS Sports Classic at Madison Square Garden. The Buckeyes enter the matchup reeling from a humbling 91-53 loss to Auburn, which dropped them to a 6-4 record.
Full AP Poll Rankings and Teams Receiving Votes
Alongside Kentucky’s climb, several notable teams received recognition in this week’s poll. Mississippi State (158 votes), Arkansas (151 votes), and Missouri (120 votes) are within striking distance of breaking into the Top 25. Other programs, including Baylor, Illinois, and Drake, also earned consideration. Teams like St. John’s, Utah State, and Pittsburgh rounded out the list of contenders receiving votes.
Teams Receiving Votes:
- Mississippi State (158), Arkansas (151), Missouri (120), Baylor (115), Illinois (70), Drake (52), St. John’s (50), Utah State (48), Pittsburgh (28), Maryland (24), West Virginia (19), Wisconsin (18), Georgia (18), Oklahoma State (16), Arizona State (14), Creighton (12), North Carolina (9), Penn State (8), Indiana (7), Texas (3), St. Bonaventure (2).
Kentucky’s National Rankings Across Media Outlets
Beyond the AP Poll, Kentucky remains a consensus top-five team across various media outlets and college basketball analysts. The majority of rankings reflect the Wildcats’ consistent success this season, with their stellar performances earning praise from experts nationwide.
- ESPN: No. 4
- CBS Sports’ Gary Parrish: No. 4
- Jon Rothstein (CBS Sports): No. 4
- Andy Katz (NCAA): No. 4
- John Fanta (Fox Sports): No. 4
- Jeff Goodman (Stadium): No. 4
- The Athletic (CJ Moore): No. 6
Although one outlet, The Athletic, placed Kentucky just outside the top five at No. 6, the overwhelming consensus highlights the team’s strength and ability to contend for a championship this season.
As Kentucky prepares for the high-profile showdown against Ohio State, all eyes will be on their performance to see if they can solidify their spot in the upper echelon of college basketball. The Wildcats’ blend of talent, experience, and strong coaching positions them as a formidable opponent for any team in the nation.
