Big 12 Basketball Power Rankings: Week 1 Of 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 Big 12 basketball season is underway, marking the second season of the 16-team era. The conference aims to re-establish itself as the top basketball league in the nation after a strong previous year.

Overview of Last Season

Though the Big 12 conceded some ground to the SEC, it showcased its strength with seven teams making the NCAA Tournament. Houston, led by coach Kelvin Sampson, reached the National Championship Game and is favored to pursue a third straight regular-season title.

Freshman Standouts

This season features a highly touted freshman class, including:

AJ Dybantsa from BYU
Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 recruit nationally, playing for Kansas
Tounde Yessoufou from Baylor
Chris Cenac at Houston
Koa Peat from Arizona

Returning Strong Teams

Last year's Sweet 16 included four Big 12 teams: Houston, BYU, Texas Tech, and Arizona. These programs appear poised to perform equally well or better in the current season.

Weekly Rankings Update

KSL Sports will provide weekly Big 12 basketball power rankings every Monday throughout the college hoops season.

“It’s a younger team than we’re used to seeing in Houston, with a heralded freshman class in the program led by Chris Cenac.”

Fans can expect an exciting mix of experienced contenders and fresh talent shaping this season’s competition.

Author's summary: The Big 12 enters the 2025-26 season with a talented freshman class and established contenders like Houston aiming to reclaim its dominance in college basketball.

KSL Sports — 2025-11-04