Monday features a new look at the NET rankings for the college basketball season. There were some changes in the rankings from last week.
Here is what they look like:
Michigan’s Steady Grip on the Top Spot
Michigan remains No. 1, and at this point the formula looks simple. The Wolverines are unbeaten, efficient on both ends, and stacking results without drama. Their blend of shooting and size has worked in every matchup so far. Villanova is next, and while the Wildcats are no stranger to pulling December surprises, Michigan enters that test looking as stable as anyone in the country.
Duke Stays Perfect and Keeps Applying Pressure
Duke holds at No. 2 with a 10-0 start that feels more convincing every week. The Blue Devils' defensive growth has been the story so far. They continue to force teams into uncomfortable possessions and have avoided the early-season slip-ups that plague so many young rosters. Lipscomb awaits next, but all eyes are already drifting toward the stretch of games that will test Duke’s perfect run.
Iowa State Rockets into Contention
The biggest storyline in the top five is Iowa State soaring to No. 3. The Cyclones' résumé is already loaded with quality wins, and they are fresh off a dominant performance that shook up the poll. Their defensive efficiency sits among the best in the nation, but the real spark has come from balanced scoring across multiple positions. Their rivalry game against Iowa will test whether this start is sustainable or simply a hot stretch.
Gonzaga Reenters the National Spotlight
Gonzaga’s move to No. 4 comes after a statement win that reintroduced the Zags as a championship-caliber team. Their offense is humming, their interior presence is improving, and their nonconference tests have already toughened them. UCLA looms this weekend, and that matchup carries implications for national perception as much as analytics.
Vanderbilt Might Be the Most Fascinating Team in America
Vanderbilt at No. 5 is one of the most surprising entries in the NET this early. The Commodores are unbeaten, physical, confident, and building one of the most impressive résumés of any team so far. Four Quad 1 wins before mid-December is rare. Their offense is explosive, their guard play has been exceptional, and Mark Byington has this group looking nothing like the team that once hovered in the SEC basement. Central Arkansas won’t threaten them this weekend, so the unbeaten run has a real chance to continue.
Arizona and UConn Hold Strong Near the Top
Arizona checks in at No. 6 after continuing a dominant stretch that includes several decisive wins over quality opponents. Their upcoming road test at Alabama will reveal just how high their ceiling is against elite athleticism.
At No. 7, UConn remains steady and dangerous. The Huskies are physical, connected, and improving offensively as the season unfolds. Florida provides the next test, and that matchup could bring more movement to the upper tier.
Purdue and Michigan State Remain Within Reach
Purdue at No. 9 and Michigan State at No. 10 are still very much in the thick of national contention. Purdue remains elite in the halfcourt, while Michigan State’s defensive identity keeps the Spartans competitive in every game. Both programs feel like slow burners that will be far more dangerous in February than they are right now.
Familiar Faces Return, and Newcomers Break Through
Saint Mary’s makes one of the biggest jumps, climbing eight spots up to No. 19. They are once again controlling pace, defending at a high level, and frustrating opponents with their discipline.
Nebraska enters at No. 24 with a 9-0 start that few saw coming. Their balanced scoring and energy on the glass have carried them into legitimate early-season spotlight.
Miami rounds out the Top 25 with an 8-2 record.
Full NET Top 25 (Updated December 7, 2025)
1. Michigan
2. Duke
3. Iowa State
4. Gonzaga
5. Vanderbilt
6. Arizona
7. UConn
8. BYU
9. Purdue
10. Michigan State
11. Alabama
12. Louisville
13. Illinois
14. North Carolina
15. Georgia
16. Virginia
17. Kansas
18. Saint Mary’s
19. Houston
20. Texas Tech
21. St. John’s
22. Florida
23. Arkansas
24. Nebraska
25. Miami