Countdown to College Basketball: Key Storylines for 2025-26

URGENT UPDATE: The countdown to the 2025-26 men’s college basketball season has begun, with teams and fans eagerly anticipating the action starting next week. As leagues finalize their preseason picks, the narrative is shifting rapidly with storylines that could define the upcoming season.

WHAT TO WATCH: This season, college basketball is set for a shake-up, with teams vying for national titles, navigating injuries, and addressing coaching changes. The stakes are high as programs aim to break NCAA tournament droughts and players seek redemption.

AMERICA EAST: Will the Vermont Catamounts reclaim their dominance? After a disappointing 2024 season, ending a nearly decade-long reign, star TJ Hurley returns with a healthier squad, but the path to the title looks challenging.

AMERICAN CONFERENCE: What’s next for the Memphis Tigers? Coach Penny Hardaway faces a rebuilding year without last season’s AP All-American. The team features new talent, including Dug McDaniel, but struggles are expected as they transition.

ACC: Can the Atlantic Coast Conference rebound from a historical low? With only three teams in the NCAA tournament last season, the pressure is on for traditional powerhouses like North Carolina, led by projected lottery pick Caleb Wilson, to restore the conference’s reputation.

ASUN CONFERENCE: Will Bellarmine make history? After a dismal record last season, the Knights are aiming for an NCAA tournament berth. With standout Jack Karasinski leading the charge, they are poised for a remarkable turnaround.

BIG EAST: The battle of the titans looms as Rick Pitino of St. John’s faces Dan Hurley of UConn. Both coaches aim high with championship hopes, raising the stakes for their teams in this highly competitive conference.

BIG 12: The race for Player of the Year is heating up. Freshmen Darryn Peterson from Kansas and AJ Dybantsa from BYU are among the top prospects, with both players expected to shine. The competition for the No. 1 NBA draft pick adds more intrigue.

BIG TEN: Is this the year for Purdue’s Matt Painter? With a loaded roster, including Braden Smith, the pressure is on to deliver a national championship. This could be Painter’s best shot yet.

SEC: The SEC aims to repeat its historic success from last season, where 14 of 16 teams made the NCAA tournament. Top teams like Florida and Arkansas are again top-15 favorites, looking to secure another strong showing.

IMPACT: These storylines are not just about games—they resonate with players and fans alike. The upcoming season could redefine careers, reshape programs, and create unforgettable moments in college basketball history.

WHAT’S NEXT: As the season approaches, all eyes will be on the opening games. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and shocking upsets as teams ignite their paths to March Madness. Will your favorite team rise to the occasion or falter under pressure? The answers will unfold in just days.

Stay tuned for live updates and more insights as college basketball kicks off its highly anticipated season!