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Purdue opened the 2025-26 season atop the preseason AP Top 25 for the first time, claiming 35 of 61 first-place votes. The Boilermakers led Houston at No. 2 (16 votes) and reigning champion Florida at No. 3 (eight), with UConn fourth and receiving the remaining two votes; St. John’s is fifth, a program-best preseason rank. Coach Matt Painter welcomed the honor but stressed the work ahead. Notables: Louisville checked in at No. 11 under Pat Kelsey, Kansas at No. 19 (its lowest preseason rank since 2008-09), and Auburn at No. 20 after Bruce Pearl’s retirement.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.