College basketball rankings: Tennessee enters the top 5; Auburn and Duke remain at 1-2

As the 2024-2025 college basketball season heats up, the landscape of the NCAA rankings has shifted with a mix of consistency and surprise. At the top of the rankings, Auburn and Duke have maintained their spots as the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the nation, respectively, continuing to dominate their respective conferences and solidifying their positions as heavy favorites for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. However, one of the most notable changes in this week’s rankings is the rise of the University of Tennessee, which has ascended into the Top 5 for the first time in years, signaling the Vols’ continued growth and potential to contend for a national title.

Auburn: Holding Strong at No. 1

Auburn, led by head coach Bruce Pearl, remains the No. 1 team in the nation for the third consecutive week. The Tigers have been absolutely dominant this season, boasting a potent offense and a tenacious defense that has made them one of the most well-rounded teams in the country. With a deep roster full of talented players, including star guard Wendell Green Jr. and versatile forward Johni Broome, Auburn has been able to weather any storm and maintain its perch at the top of the rankings.

One of the key factors behind Auburn’s success has been its unrelenting defense. The Tigers have consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation in defensive efficiency, and their ability to stifle opponents, both on the perimeter and in the paint, has made them a formidable force. Broome, in particular, has been a key player for the Tigers, providing rim protection and rebounding in addition to his scoring ability. Meanwhile, Green’s playmaking and scoring have been crucial to Auburn’s offense, as he has proven to be one of the most dynamic guards in the nation.

Offensively, Auburn has demonstrated versatility, with the ability to play fast and create open shots through ball movement and spacing. They have also shown a capacity to grind out games in the half court when necessary, and their balance between offense and defense has made them incredibly difficult to beat. With several high-profile wins already under their belt, Auburn is poised to maintain its position as the top team in college basketball for the foreseeable future.

Duke: The Blue Devils Stay at No. 2

Duke, under head coach Jon Scheyer, remains at No. 2 in the country, continuing to solidify their status as one of the premier programs in the nation. The Blue Devils have been playing at an extremely high level this season, with a mixture of experienced upperclassmen and talented freshmen leading the charge. Scheyer, who is in his second season as Duke’s head coach after taking over for Mike Krzyzewski, has seamlessly integrated his own coaching style with the program’s storied history, and the results have been impressive.

Duke’s roster is highlighted by freshman phenom Dariq Whitehead, who has been outstanding on both ends of the floor. Whitehead’s combination of size, athleticism, and skill has made him one of the most exciting prospects in college basketball, and his play has helped elevate the Blue Devils to new heights. Alongside Whitehead, veterans like Kyle Filipowski and Jeremy Roach have provided steady leadership, helping to guide the team through the rigors of the ACC and the national spotlight.

Duke’s success has largely been built on its defense, which has been one of the best in the country. The Blue Devils are particularly strong in the paint, where they have the size and length to alter shots and secure rebounds. Offensively, they have been a well-oiled machine, with exceptional ball movement and scoring depth. Whether it’s Whitehead attacking the rim, Filipowski stretching the floor with his outside shooting, or Roach running the offense, Duke’s offensive attack has been nearly impossible to stop.

With a roster filled with NBA-caliber talent and a coaching staff that knows how to navigate the pressures of a high-profile season, Duke is positioned to make a deep run in March Madness. Their blend of talent and experience makes them a dangerous team that will likely be in the conversation for a No. 1 seed come tournament time.

Tennessee: Entering the Top 5

Perhaps the biggest story of this week’s rankings is the rise of the University of Tennessee, which has cracked the Top 5 for the first time in recent memory. The Volunteers have been on a tear this season, playing physical, aggressive basketball that has allowed them to build a resume worthy of a top-tier ranking.

Led by head coach Rick Barnes, Tennessee has established itself as one of the most balanced teams in the country, combining a stout defense with an offense that can put up points in a hurry. The Vols are known for their relentless defense, which has consistently ranked among the best in the nation. With players like Santiago Vescovi and Zakai Zeigler leading the charge, Tennessee has been able to disrupt opposing offenses and force turnovers, creating fast-break opportunities and easy baskets.

Offensively, Tennessee has shown significant improvement this season. The Vols are no longer just a defense-first team—they have developed a well-rounded offensive game that can keep up with the nation’s best. Vescovi, a senior guard, has been one of the best shooters in college basketball, and Zeigler’s ability to facilitate the offense has been a game-changer. In addition, Tennessee has received strong play from forwards like Olivier Nkamhoua, who has added scoring and rebounding to the team’s overall strength.

Tennessee’s rise to the Top 5 is a testament to the program’s consistency and the growth of its players. The Vols have already earned significant wins this season and look primed to be a major factor in both the SEC and the national landscape. With their combination of defensive prowess and offensive firepower, Tennessee has all the tools necessary to make a deep run in March and perhaps even challenge for a national title.

The Rest of the Top 10:

As the college basketball season continues to unfold, the rest of the Top 10 teams have continued to make waves, with some rising and others falling. Here’s a look at how the rankings are shaping up behind the top three:

4. Purdue

Purdue continues to be one of the most dominant teams in college basketball. Led by reigning National Player of the Year Zach Edey, the Boilermakers have established themselves as one of the top teams in the Big Ten and nationally. Edey’s size and skill have made Purdue a matchup nightmare for opposing teams, and the Boilermakers are one of the most efficient offensive teams in the country. With a strong supporting cast and an experienced coaching staff, Purdue remains a contender to make a run in the tournament.

5. Houston

Houston has quietly put together another stellar season, thanks in large part to its suffocating defense and disciplined offense. The Cougars have been a top-tier team in the AAC and are now finding their way into the upper echelon of the national rankings. Guard Marcus Sasser and forward Jarace Walker have been instrumental in Houston’s success, and the Cougars’ well-rounded approach makes them a tough team to beat.

6. Kansas

Kansas, under head coach Bill Self, has once again established itself as a force in the Big 12 and nationally. With standout performances from players like Jalen Wilson and Gradey Dick, the Jayhawks have been able to stay near the top of the rankings despite the challenging competition in the Big 12. Kansas’ balance and depth make them a team to watch as the season progresses.

7. Arizona

Arizona has been one of the most fun teams to watch this season, with a high-scoring offense led by guard Kerr Kriisa and big man Azuolas Tubelis. The Wildcats have been able to put up points in bunches and have proved to be a difficult matchup for most teams. Arizona’s success will ultimately depend on its defense, but with their offensive firepower, they can hang with anyone.

8. Baylor

Baylor remains a top contender in the Big 12, with star guard LJ Cryer leading the way. The Bears have been consistently solid on both ends of the floor, with an efficient offense and strong defense. With a talented roster and a coach who has proven to thrive in March, Baylor is always a team to keep an eye on as the season progresses.

9. Texas

Texas has been a pleasant surprise this season, with a revamped roster that has gelled well under head coach Chris Beard. The Longhorns have been playing hard-nosed basketball and have gotten strong play from players like Timmy Allen and Marcus Carr. Texas’ defense has been a strong suit, and they have the talent to make a deep run in March.

10. UCLA

UCLA rounds out the Top 10, as the Bruins continue to be a strong presence in the Pac-12. With standout performances from Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Tyger Campbell, UCLA has proven that it can compete with the best teams in the country. The Bruins’ blend of offense and defense makes them a dangerous opponent come tournament time.