AP Top 25: Latest College Basketball Rankings

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The Associated Press (AP) Poll for college basketball is a highly anticipated weekly ranking of the top 25 teams in the nation. Compiled by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters, the AP Poll significantly influences the perception of teams, their standings, and their chances heading into the NCAA Tournament.

How the AP Poll Works

The AP Poll is released weekly throughout the college basketball season. Each voter submits their own ranking of the top 25 teams, and the votes are tallied to create the official AP Top 25. Teams receive points based on their ranking, with the top team receiving the most points.

Factors Influencing the Rankings

Several factors influence how teams are ranked in the AP Poll:

  • Win-Loss Record: A team's overall record and recent performance play a crucial role.
  • Quality of Wins: Defeating highly-ranked opponents significantly boosts a team's standing.
  • Strength of Schedule: Playing a challenging schedule is viewed favorably, even with a few losses.
  • Eye Test: Subjective evaluation of a team's performance, considering factors like player talent, coaching, and overall team chemistry.

Recent Changes and Surprises

Each week, the AP Poll sees changes as teams rise and fall based on their performances. Upset victories, dominant wins, and unexpected losses can all lead to significant shifts in the rankings. Keep an eye on emerging teams and potential upsets that could shake up the Top 25.

Impact of the AP Poll

The AP Poll has several important impacts:

  • NCAA Tournament Seeding: The NCAA Tournament selection committee considers the AP Poll when determining tournament seeding.
  • Recruiting: A high ranking can attract top recruits to a program.
  • Fan Engagement: The AP Poll fuels discussions and debates among fans, increasing interest in college basketball.

Where to Find the Latest AP Poll

The latest AP Poll is typically released every Monday afternoon during the college basketball season. You can find the rankings on the AP's official website, ESPN, and other major sports news outlets. Stay updated to see how your favorite teams are ranked and track their progress throughout the season.