Where does Nate Oats’ Alabama rank in Week 13 AP Poll ranking? Exploring the jumps and declines of top teams

As the college basketball season heats up, teams are vying for supremacy in the NCAA, with the AP Poll serving as a key barometer of success. Week 13 of the AP Poll has brought significant shifts, with teams climbing the ranks, some enduring declines, and others maintaining their dominant positions. For Nate Oats and his Alabama Crimson Tide, this week’s poll marks a pivotal moment in their season.

Alabama’s rise in the rankings under Oats has been nothing short of remarkable, transforming into one of the most potent programs in college basketball. But with the season heading into crucial conference matchups, the question on many minds is: where does Alabama stand in the latest AP Poll, and how do they compare to the shifting dynamics of the top teams?

Nate Oats and the Alabama Basketball Program

Since taking over the Alabama program in 2019, Nate Oats has instilled a new philosophy, emphasizing fast-paced, high-scoring basketball that reflects his tenure as an assistant coach under Greg Gard at Wisconsin and his successful stint at Buffalo. His system has been characterized by increased three-point attempts, intense defense, and a focus on player development, and it’s paying dividends.

Under Oats, Alabama has evolved into a force to be reckoned with in the SEC and on the national stage. After securing a historic No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament in 2024, the team entered the 2025 season with high expectations. Returning key players, bolstered by an influx of talented newcomers, Alabama was primed for another strong run. However, as with any season, the path to the top is rarely straight, and teams must navigate the ups and downs of both conference play and non-conference challenges.

The Week 13 AP Poll has become a critical snapshot of where the Crimson Tide stand among the nation’s elite. So, where does Alabama sit in this crucial week of the 2025 season?

Alabama’s Ranking in the Week 13 AP Poll

As of Week 13, Alabama is positioned firmly within the top 10 of the AP Poll, a testament to their consistent play throughout the season. The Crimson Tide’s aggressive style and ability to score from all positions have kept them competitive, particularly in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Their standing in the Week 13 poll is the result of several key factors:

• Strong Non-Conference Wins: Alabama has picked up impressive victories in early season tournaments, including matchups against highly ranked teams, showcasing their ability to compete on a national scale.
• SEC Dominance: As SEC play intensifies, Alabama’s performance against conference foes will solidify their place in the rankings. With the SEC consistently being one of the top basketball conferences in the nation, Alabama’s ability to win against formidable competition is crucial.
• Player Development and Depth: Under Oats, Alabama has developed players who can contribute across the board. Whether it’s through their guard play, sharp shooting, or defensive prowess, Alabama’s depth has been a hallmark of their success.

As the week progresses, the rankings could shift based on upcoming games, but as of now, Alabama is comfortably among the top 10 teams in the country. The question is whether they can maintain their position or make a push for a top 5 spot in the coming weeks.

The Top 10 Shakeup: Teams Making Jumps and Facing Declines

Every season, the AP Poll sees movement as teams hit their stride or face challenges. Week 13 was no exception, with several key programs seeing dramatic jumps, while others experienced significant declines. The ebb and flow of these rankings reflect the unpredictable nature of college basketball.

Teams on the Rise

Several teams in the Week 13 rankings have experienced notable jumps, thanks to strong performances, key wins, and a growing sense of momentum. For instance:

• Duke: Duke has made a strong case for a top 5 ranking after a series of impressive wins. Their blend of elite freshman talent and experienced upperclassmen has made them a force in the ACC.
• Kansas: The defending national champions have been rising steadily after a slow start to the season. Their depth, combined with the consistent leadership of coach Bill Self, has helped them regain their spot among the nation’s elite.
• Purdue: Purdue continues to impress, maintaining one of the most efficient offenses in the country, led by their standout big man. As long as their defense remains strong, they will likely remain in the upper echelons of the rankings.

Teams Facing Declines

On the other hand, several teams have faced disappointing stretches, resulting in drops in the Week 13 rankings:

• Kentucky: After a strong start, Kentucky has faced struggles, including tough losses to unranked opponents. While they have the talent to bounce back, their recent form has caused them to tumble out of the top 10.
• Michigan State: The Spartans, after a promising beginning, have faced struggles in key matchups, resulting in a drop in the rankings. The team has shown flashes of brilliance but needs more consistency to regain their place among the top teams.
• Arizona: Arizona, often regarded as a top contender, has faced a challenging few weeks, dropping games to teams they were expected to beat. Their inconsistency has caused them to slide down the rankings, though they remain in the conversation for a high seed come tournament time.

The SEC’s Impact on Alabama’s Ranking

One of the most compelling aspects of Alabama’s ranking is their position within the SEC. The SEC continues to be one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball, with teams like Arkansas, Auburn, and Tennessee all vying for high rankings. Alabama’s performance within the SEC will play a pivotal role in determining their postseason position and whether they can push for a No. 1 or No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

While Alabama has looked strong, their path to maintaining their ranking requires navigating tough SEC road games, handling rivalries, and ensuring they perform consistently at the highest level. Wins against these tough conference opponents will be crucial for Oats’ squad, particularly in boosting their strength of schedule and proving that they are a legitimate national title contender.

The Rivalry Factor: Auburn and Alabama

Alabama’s in-state rival, Auburn, has also been a key player in the SEC’s competitive nature. The Tigers have traditionally been one of the top teams in the conference, and their rivalry with Alabama adds an extra layer of intensity to every matchup. As both teams continue to rise in the rankings, their meetings will become must-watch events that could shape the future of the SEC standings.

For Alabama, maintaining their ranking will mean keeping pace with Auburn, who is constantly in the hunt for the same coveted top spots in the AP Poll. These games will not only determine the trajectory of Alabama’s ranking but also their ability to hold off competition from the other top-ranked SEC teams.

The Road Ahead for Alabama

Looking forward, Alabama faces a critical stretch in its season. The Week 13 ranking reflects their strong start, but the real challenge lies in staying consistent and avoiding major upsets. With the NCAA Tournament looming large, Alabama will need to keep fine-tuning its offensive and defensive strategies, making sure that they’re prepared for March Madness.

One of the key elements of Alabama’s potential success is Nate Oats’ coaching. Oats has proven to be an adaptable coach, able to make in-game adjustments and develop his players into major contributors. The next few weeks will showcase whether Oats can keep the team focused on its long-term goals, avoiding the distractions that can derail a season.

Moreover, Alabama’s ability to develop their young players into key contributors will be pivotal in the second half of the season. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, teams that rely on young talent and can develop players throughout the season are often the ones that make the deepest runs.

Alabama’s Position in the National Landscape

As Week 13 of the AP Poll comes to a close, Alabama’s ranking remains strong, reflecting the program’s consistent growth and the impact of Nate Oats’ leadership. Alabama has established itself as one of the premier programs in college basketball, with a system that can match up with the best teams in the country. But with the landscape constantly shifting, Alabama will need to stay sharp and maintain its form throughout the rest of the season.

With the SEC continuing to be a major battleground and top teams like Kansas, Duke, and Purdue making moves in the rankings, Alabama must remain focused on the prize. As the season progresses, their place in the AP Poll will continue to be shaped by their performance, not just in the SEC, but also in non-conference matchups that have national implications. For Nate Oats and his Alabama team, the road ahead is filled with challenges, but their position in the rankings demonstrates they are well-positioned to take on the nation’s best.