1. Michigan (13-0)
It’s only been a few months, but it truly feels like a long time has passed since someone gave Michigan a legitimate battle in a basketball game. The Wolverines have been punching teams in the mouth throughout the season, boasting big wins over Auburn, Gonzaga, and everyone else in their path during this unbeaten start. Even with Big Ten play beginning the wins are still fantastic.
Before the New Year, Michigan had one nonconference tune up, winning 112-71 over McNeese State on Monday. The Wolverines shot 59% from the floor, with a 24-point, 11-rebound effort out of Morez Johnson Jr. in another impressive win. What happened Friday was far more notable as the Wolverines won 96-66 over a ranked USC team. Michigan only made 20% of their 3-pointers and struggled from outside but still made it a laugher. Johnson Jr. emerged again with 29 points in a career performance.
Michigan has scored over 100 points in six of their last eight contests and likely get there with an average shooting day on Friday night. They’re off to a 3-0 start in the Big Ten and have won those games by an average margin of nearly 30 points. Everything is worked for the balanced Wolverines, who can overcome sloppy defense or tough shooting and win in a myriad of ways. Ahead is a road game at Penn State and a home date with Wisconsin but it’s hard to imagine a major challenge from those.
We’re getting into the meat of this college basketball season and plenty of excitement is to come. These top teams will be tested more on a regular basis and it’ll be interesting to see who stands out above the rest. Based on what we’ve seen, do you agree with the teams included and where we’ve placed them in the first update of 2026?