As we count down the days until the exhilarating season of college basketball kicks off, excitement fills the air. This year, the journey spans from California to Connecticut, North Carolina to North Dakota, and everywhere in between. It’s the road to the Final Four, and it begins today. To help you navigate this thrilling path, I’ve crafted a detailed map showcasing the best team in each of the 49 states participating in Division I basketball.
The graphic at the top of this article (available for high-resolution download here) illustrates not only the current landscape but also highlights the rich basketball heritage each state brings to the court. While some states boast only one D-I program and their logos remain constant, others, like California, Texas, and Ohio, have dynamic competitions among multiple top-tier programs. This ranking is a snapshot of the present, focusing on teams poised to excel over the next five months rather than a historical overview.
To determine the best team in each state, I utilized my Top 100 And 1 rankings, meticulously researched over the past month. For those states with no representatives in that elite list, I based my selections on forecasts for the 2025-26 season, incorporating both personal projections and advanced metrics from leading analysts. So, grab your gear, jump in the car, and prepare for an unforgettable journey that will culminate in Indianapolis during the first week of April.
With Bruce Pearl's retirement, the rivalry between Auburn and Alabama intensifies. I place Alabama at the top due to Labaron Philon's return and a formidable backcourt expected to shine this season. The Alabama vs. Auburn matchup has evolved into a nationally recognized rivalry, and I’m eager to see how Steven Pearl manages the Tigers against the Tide.
This season, the Arizona Wildcats are poised to maintain their status as a top-10 team. Coach Tommy Lloyd aims for a fifth consecutive year with a top-four seed, led by Jaden Bradley and emerging star Koa Peat. Meanwhile, Arizona State’s Bobby Hurley faces pressure in his final contract year, making this a pivotal season for both programs.
The Arkansas Razorbacks continue to dominate in the Natural State. John Calipari’s roster looks promising, with a core that includes DJ Wagner and Trevon Brazile. With their skill set, Arkansas is expected to not only defend but also challenge offensively, potentially becoming one of the top defensive teams this year.
In the competitive landscape of California, the UCLA Bruins emerge as the frontrunner. The addition of Donovan Dent from New Mexico could significantly impact the Big Ten race. Other California teams, such as San Diego State and USC, will also strive for NCAA Tournament berths, making this a thrilling season for West Coast basketball.
After a rocky previous season, the UConn Huskies are determined to rebound. With an improved backcourt and strong returning players, they are projected to be a top-five team if everything aligns. Yale and Quinnipiac also aim for success, particularly in their respective conferences.
The reigning champions, the Florida Gators, return key players and are expected to be a powerhouse in the SEC. Their opening matchup against Arizona promises to be a highlight of the early season.
Under Mike White, the Georgia Bulldogs face challenges as they aim for consistency. Despite losing talent, the roster shows promise, potentially outshining rivals like Georgia Tech, who also face their challenges in the ACC.
Current circumstances look bleak for Louisiana sports teams, including the LSU Tigers, who are striving for improvement. With pressure mounting on head coach Matt McMahon, they need to perform well to remain competitive in the SEC.
The Duke Blue Devils are looking to bounce back from a tough Final Four loss, with a roster featuring promising freshman Cameron Boozer. North Carolina also shows potential with a strong transfer class, setting the stage for an exciting rivalry this season.
As the top-ranked team, the Houston Cougars are on a mission to redeem themselves after last season’s disappointment. Their core players exemplify toughness and skill, promising an intense season in the Big 12.
In Wisconsin, the Marquette Golden Eagles are favored to lead the state, with a solid roster and strategic gameplay that has positioned them well for the NCAA Tournament. Meanwhile, Wisconsin aims to improve and remain competitive within the Big Ten.
The countdown to the college basketball season is nearly over, and fans across the country are gearing up for a thrilling journey. With promising teams from coast to coast, the road to the Final Four is filled with excitement and anticipation. Let the games begin!
