NCAA Basketball: Baylor rises, Kentucky falls in latest 2023-24 WTE power rankings

5. Houston

These last few seasons have really seen Houston emerge as an elite program and a national power. They’re fresh off a Final Four, an Elite Eight, and a Sweet Sixteen this past season. Houston is heading to the Big 12 and replacing a few major faces from last season, but there’s still a lot to love about these Cougars moving forward.

Kelvin Sampson’s crew lost an All-American in Marcus Sasser and is also replacing Jarace Walker and Tramon Mark in the starting lineup. Leaning on the Transfer Portal, Houston lured two of the best guards in the market to Houston, landing LJ Cryer from Baylor and Damian Dunn from Temple. They’ll combine with returner Jamal Shead to form one of the nation’s strongest backcourts, while J’Wan Roberts is back for his senior season heading up the frontcourt.

There’s nothing easy about replacing someone like Sasser on any team, but Houston has an incredibly talented roster, especially if some of those younger role players take major steps forward this season. The Cougars have shown that they’re a force to be reckoned with and take their act into the Big 12. Are they in for a rude awakening or will they be right up there with Kansas, Baylor, and the other top conference teams?