1. Michigan Wolverines
Record: 12-0 (2-0 Big Ten)
Last Week: No. 3
Merry Christmas, Michigan fans! Thanks to the best resume in the country, in my opinion, Michigan launches into the No. 1 spot in my top-25+ power rankings for the first time this season. In addition to being one of the only undefeated teams left in the nation, the Wolverines have a great collection of wins (although their SOS only ranks at 148th). Head coach John Beilein’s team already has victories over Villanova, Providence, North Carolina, Purdue, and Northwestern.
Michigan’s defense, which is ranked fourth in the nation in AdjD, has been the calling card of the team so far this season while shutting teams down in just about every facet. The Wolverines might not force a ton of turnovers but they rank in the top-15 in defensive effective field goal percentage, opponent offensive rebounding percentage, and opponent free throw rate. Add in the fact that Ignas Brazdeikis, Charles Matthews, and Jordan Poole make up a dangerous offensive trio and this team can win in many ways.
With Big Ten play approaching, Michigan should be the favorite to win the league. And considering the Big Ten is the best conference in NCAA basketball at the moment, calling them the favorite is not a meaningless comment. Beilein and Co. have been absolutely tremendous, especially defensively, to begin this season.
That concludes this edition of my top-25+ power rankings. I hope that you enjoyed, that your favorite team is included, and that you have a wonderful holiday season. This year in college basketball has been superb and the next few months should be incredible. Which teams will shift the most in our next edition of the top-25+?