AP Top 25: Maryland enters for first time since 2023; Auburn remains No. 1

The Associated Press (AP) Top 25 basketball rankings have once again delivered a shake-up, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball. As the season unfolds, surprises and shifts in rankings are becoming the norm, and the latest edition of the AP poll showcases just how dynamic the competition is across the country. Among the most significant developments in the new poll is Maryland re-entering the rankings for the first time since 2023, while Auburn maintains its firm hold on the No. 1 spot.

As the season progresses, teams that were once considered underdogs or sleepers have begun to prove their mettle, and their ascent into the rankings is a testament to the fluid nature of the sport. Maryland’s re-emergence, in particular, is a testament to the program’s growth and resilience. Auburn’s continued dominance, however, is just as noteworthy, as it reflects the strength and depth of the Tigers’ roster.

In this article, we will break down the latest AP Top 25 rankings, discuss the significance of Maryland’s return to the poll, analyze why Auburn remains at No. 1, and explore what the future holds for these teams as well as other notable shifts in the rankings.

The AP Top 25: Key Highlights

Auburn: Holding Steady at No. 1

At the very top of the AP rankings, Auburn has solidified its position as the premier team in college basketball. Despite facing stiff competition from teams in the Big 12, Big Ten, and other power conferences, Auburn’s consistency has allowed them to remain at the top for several weeks. Their current standing as the No. 1 team speaks volumes about their depth, coaching, and all-around ability to excel on both ends of the floor.

Auburn’s Continued Dominance

Under the leadership of head coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn has become a well-oiled machine, combining fast-paced offense with stingy defense. Their roster is loaded with talent, particularly on the defensive side, and they’ve displayed the kind of intensity that has made them a national contender.

The most notable player for Auburn this season has been Johni Broome, whose leadership and skill set have helped drive the team to its No. 1 ranking. Broome has been a consistent scorer, and his ability to take over games when needed has been invaluable. Alongside Broome, players like Alan Flanigan, Jaylin Williams, and K.D. Johnson have contributed to Auburn’s balanced attack, making them one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation.

Auburn has proven that they can beat teams in a variety of ways—whether through high-scoring affairs or defensive battles—and that versatility has made them a daunting opponent. Their ability to maintain their position as the top team in the country, despite the ups and downs of the season, suggests that they are the team to beat heading into March.

Maryland’s Resurgence: Back in the AP Top 25

One of the most exciting stories in the latest AP poll is Maryland’s return to the rankings. After a relatively quiet stretch, the Terrapins have found their form and are now firmly back in the conversation as one of the nation’s top teams. Their re-entry into the Top 25 marks the first time they have been ranked since 2023, and it is a testament to the program’s growth and the effectiveness of their coaching staff.

Maryland’s Season So Far

Under head coach Kevin Willard, Maryland has shown significant improvement, particularly on the defensive end, where they have been able to stifle high-powered offenses. Their defense, which has been one of the best in the country this season, is a key reason for their rise in the rankings. Additionally, Maryland has shown great balance, with strong performances from both their veterans and younger players.

Jahmir Young, one of Maryland’s standout players, has been pivotal in leading the offense, contributing both as a scorer and as a playmaker. His leadership has been critical to the team’s success, and his ability to control the game has made him one of the most dynamic guards in the country. Alongside Young, Maryland has benefited from solid performances from Hakim Hart, Don Carey, and Julian Reese, who have all played significant roles in pushing the Terps back into the AP rankings.

Maryland’s return to the Top 25 is not just a reflection of their talent but also a sign of their resilience as a program. After some down years, they’ve rebounded in a major way and are once again a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. The team’s defense-first mentality has helped them secure several impressive wins, and their positioning in the rankings makes them a dangerous opponent heading into the postseason.

The Rest of the AP Top 25: Shifts and Surprises

While Auburn and Maryland have garnered much of the attention in the latest AP rankings, there have been several other notable changes and surprises in the Top 25. College basketball is a sport known for its unpredictability, and the rankings reflect that.

Kansas at No. 2: The defending champions continue to show their dominance under head coach Bill Self. Kansas remains one of the top teams in the nation, with star guard Jalen Wilson leading the way. The Jayhawks’ combination of size, talent, and experience makes them a serious contender for a national title.

Purdue at No. 3: The Boilermakers have emerged as one of the most consistent teams in the country, thanks in large part to the standout play of Zach Edey, the 7-foot-4 center who has been dominating the paint. Purdue’s combination of size and skill makes them a formidable opponent, and they have firmly established themselves as a top contender for the Final Four.

Houston at No. 4: The Cougars are a team to watch in the coming months. Despite being overshadowed by other powerhouses, Kelvin Sampson’s squad continues to win games with a tough, gritty style of play. Houston’s defense and rebounding have been key to their success this season, and they will look to continue their climb toward the top of the rankings.

Duke, Arizona, and Texas: The Blue Devils, Wildcats, and Longhorns round out the Top 10, with each team showing flashes of greatness and taking down top-tier opponents. Duke’s young talent, Arizona’s high-powered offense, and Texas’ defensive prowess all make these teams legitimate threats come tournament time.

The Teams on the Bubble

Every year, several teams on the bubble of the AP rankings show that they are capable of making a run in the NCAA Tournament. This year, a few teams have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. These teams are knocking on the door of the Top 25 and are poised to make a big jump in the coming weeks.

Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana are just a few examples of teams that are playing well enough to potentially crack the rankings soon. If they continue their strong performances in the coming weeks, they could join the ranks of the nation’s elite teams.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Auburn and Maryland?

With both Auburn and Maryland sitting at the top of the rankings in their respective conferences, the future looks bright for these programs.

Auburn’s Road Ahead: Auburn will look to continue its dominance in the SEC, facing challenges from teams like Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky. The Tigers’ depth and balanced attack make them the team to beat in the conference, but the SEC is always a competitive environment, and there will be no shortage of challengers as March Madness approaches.

Maryland’s Path to March: Maryland’s re-entry into the rankings is a positive sign for their postseason prospects. The Big Ten is always a tough conference, with teams like Michigan State, Purdue, and Indiana looking to make deep runs in the tournament. If Maryland can continue to play the defense-first style that has been so successful for them, they will be a tough matchup for any team in the nation.

A Shifting Landscape in College Basketball

As the AP Top 25 rankings evolve, it’s clear that college basketball is as unpredictable as ever. Auburn’s continued dominance at No. 1, coupled with Maryland’s impressive return to the rankings, sets the stage for a thrilling stretch run. The competition is fierce, and teams will be looking to improve their positioning as March approaches.

As we look ahead to the rest of the season, one thing is certain: college basketball fans are in for an exciting ride, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Whether it’s Auburn’s quest to hold onto the top spot or Maryland’s drive to prove they’re back, the race for the NCAA Tournament is heating up, and every game counts.