UPDATE: The countdown to the 2025-26 NCAA men’s college basketball season is officially on, with just days remaining until the tip-off. As teams finalize their rosters and strategies, several pivotal storylines are emerging that will shape this season’s narrative.
TIME SENSITIVE: With the season starting on November 6, 2025, fans are eager to see how coaching changes, player performances, and conference dynamics will unfold. Teams are not just vying for wins; many are chasing national titles, looking to end long NCAA tournament droughts, or recovering from injuries.
IMPACT: The landscape of college basketball is shifting rapidly. For instance, the America East Conference faces a critical question: Is this the end of Vermont’s nearly decade-long dominance? Last season, Vermont faltered, losing to conference opponents by double digits. With star TJ Hurley back on the court, the challenge to reclaim their title is intense.
In the American Conference, the future of Memphis remains uncertain. After a standout season under coach Penny Hardaway, the Tigers are now navigating a roster overhaul. The absence of last year’s AP All-American P.J. Haggerty leaves a significant gap, making their rebuilding efforts crucial.
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is also in a state of flux after a disappointing previous season. With only three teams making it to the NCAA tournament, the pressure is on for teams like North Carolina and NC State to bounce back. The Tar Heels are banking on projected lottery pick Caleb Wilson to lead a resurgence, while NC State has bolstered its roster with new talent.
Meanwhile, the ASUN Conference is home to a potentially history-making season for Bellarmine. After finishing with a dismal 2-16 conference record last year, the Knights are poised for redemption. With Jack Karasinski leading the charge, they aim for a historic NCAA berth.
The Big 12 Conference features an exciting race for the Player of the Year title. Freshmen Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa are projected top picks in the upcoming NBA draft, adding fuel to an already competitive season.
Coaching rivalries will also heat up, particularly between Rick Pitino and Dan Hurley in the Big East. Both teams are eyeing championship runs, and their matchups could become the highlight of the season.
As the SEC looks to repeat its historic success from last year, with a record 14 teams qualifying for the NCAA tournament, the pressure mounts for teams like Florida and Kentucky to maintain their strong standings.
Fans around the country are left wondering: Which schools will rise and which will fall? The 2025-26 NCAA men’s basketball season is set to deliver unexpected twists, compelling narratives, and the thrill of competition.
As the season approaches, stay tuned for updates on key games, player performances, and more emerging storylines that will define college basketball this year. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher.
