BREAKING: As the 2025-26 college basketball season approaches, 17 teams are emerging as strong contenders to achieve the coveted milestone of 30 wins. With the preseason rankings offering a tantalizing glimpse, fans are buzzing about which teams might dominate the court in the coming months.
Experts are closely watching these teams because history shows that success often hinges on reaching that 30-win mark. Since the 2013-14 season, seven of the ten national champions had at least 28 wins leading up to Selection Sunday. This season, several powerhouse programs and a few mid-majors are lined up to potentially hit or exceed that benchmark.
Key contenders include:
– **BYU Cougars**: Under first-year head coach Kevin Young, the Cougars are primed for success with potential NBA draft pick AJ Dybantsa and returning stars like Richie Saunders. After a strong finish last season, they aim to surpass their 26 wins.
– **Duke Blue Devils**: Featuring a highly touted freshman class led by Cameron Boozer, Duke is looking to build on last season’s momentum. With seasoned players like Isaiah Evans, a 30-win season is within reach.
– **Florida Gators**: After leading the nation with 36 wins last season, the Gators are set to defend their title with a talented roster featuring Boogie Fland and preseason All-American Alex Condon.
– **Gonzaga Bulldogs**: Known for their winning pedigree, Coach Mark Few has his eyes set on another successful season in the WCC. With players like Graham Ike and Tyon Grant-Foster, Gonzaga could easily notch 30 wins.
– **Houston Cougars**: Coach Kelvin Sampson is optimistic about his squad, which includes projected lottery pick Chris Cenac Jr.. Houston looks to extend their streak of 30-plus wins this season.
– **Kentucky Wildcats**: With a deep roster and star players like Otega Oweh, Kentucky aims to build on their NCAA tournament success from last season and push for 30 wins.
– **Louisville Cardinals**: Under Pat Kelsey, Louisville has a strong shot to reach 30 wins with elite guard Mikel Brown Jr. leading the way.
– **Michigan Wolverines**: Coach Dusty May has reloaded with talent and faces a challenging Big Ten schedule. However, with key players like Yaxel Lendeborg, a 30-win season is attainable.
– **Purdue Boilermakers**: With Braden Smith in the running for the Wooden Award, Purdue’s championship aspirations are high. The team is aiming to replicate their previous success and achieve 30+ wins.
– **St. John’s Red Storm**: With star player Zuby Ejiofor leading a top transfer class, St. John’s is in a prime position to capture 30 wins and make a strong NCAA tournament showing.
As the season unfolds, fans are eager to see which teams will rise to the occasion and meet the 30-win challenge. Stay tuned for updates on these exciting developments in college basketball!
