NCAA Basketball: Way-too-early top 25 power rankings for 2022-23 season

2021-22 season record: 27-10 (12-6 in Big 12)

It was a remarkable first season by head coach Mark Adams, working with a retooled roster that featured a lot of the same pieces but worked perfectly in the “no middles” defense. They do lose a few key pieces, including Terrence Shannon Jr., Davion Warren, and leading scorer and rebounder Bryson Williams.

But there are some quality players returning, including constant unsung hero Kevin McCullar (10.1 ppg and 3.1 apg). Stretch forward Kevin Obanor should also be back, as well as Clarence Nadolny. And to add to the many 6’6 wings is Jaylon Tyson, a former top-50 recruit that originally committed to Texas Tech but followed Coach Beard to Texas; but is now back and may have the highest ceiling among the projected roster players.

The two areas of need are at point guard and center. Four-star commit Richard “Pop” Isaacs has a chance at early playing time in the backcourt, while Robert Jennings is an athletic combo forward that’ll add to the depth. Daniel Batcho lost playing time as Williams emerged late in the season but he’s a solid defensive and rebounding big man, although the Red Raiders are likely to add at least one more big that can score.

I may be overrating the current roster but I’m certainly not overrating Coach Adams and his ability to make things work. Expect them to add a couple more pieces to slide up the rankings and for Tyson to become a breakout sophomore star.