As the 2025-26 college basketball season approaches, we take a way-too-early look at the top 25 teams and their standout players who could be in the running for major awards. Here’s a breakdown of each team’s top candidate for individual honors:

1. Purdue Boilermakers

Braden Smith: The reigning Big Ten Player of the Year and a consensus first-team All-American, Smith is a strong contender for the Wooden Award. With improved support around him, he’s poised for another stellar season.

2. Florida Gators

Thomas Haugh: After limited playing time in his first two seasons, Haugh is expected to have a breakout year. His versatility and size make him a matchup nightmare.

3. Houston Cougars

Joseph Tugler: The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year is a defensive powerhouse and is likely to repeat his dominance this season.

4. UConn Huskies

Solo Ball: An elite shooter, Ball is expected to be in the mix for All-American honors, especially with the addition of top freshmen.

5. St. John's Red Storm

Zuby Ejiofor: The senior center is arguably the best in the country, known for his versatility and defensive prowess.

6. BYU Cougars

A.J. Dybantsa: The No. 1 recruit in the 2025 class has high expectations, including potential All-America and Big 12 Player of the Year honors.

7. Louisville Cardinals

Pat Kelsey: If Louisville lives up to its ranking, Kelsey could be in the Coach of the Year conversation.

8. Michigan Wolverines

Yaxel Lendeborg: A transfer from UAB, Lendeborg’s production in the Big Ten could earn him All-America honors.

9. Kentucky Wildcats

Otega Oweh: The Oklahoma transfer broke out last season and is expected to be a key player for Kentucky.

10. Texas Tech Red Raiders

JT Toppin: The Big 12 Player of the Year had an impressive late-season run and is expected to continue his dominance.

11. Arkansas Razorbacks

Darius Acuff: The most productive freshman in the SEC could lead Arkansas to a top-10 ranking.

12. Duke Blue Devils

Cameron Boozer: One of the most decorated high school players, Boozer is expected to make an immediate impact.

13. Arizona Wildcats

Tommy Lloyd: If Arizona’s roster clicks, Lloyd could be a strong Coach of the Year candidate.

14. Auburn Tigers

Tahaad Pettiford: The left-handed freshman is expected to be the go-to player for Auburn.

15. UCLA Bruins

Donovan Dent: The Mountain West Player of the Year is expected to be among the best point guards in the country.

16. Illinois Fighting Illini

Brad Underwood: Underwood’s ability to dial in the defense will be crucial for Illinois’ success.

17. Alabama Crimson Tide

Labaron Philon: With a bigger offensive load, Philon is expected to push for all-league honors.

18. Iowa State Cyclones

Tamin Lipsey: A two-way player, Lipsey is expected to have an all-conference season.

19. Gonzaga Bulldogs

Graham Ike: The dominant big man is on track to win his first conference Player of the Year award.

20. Wisconsin Badgers

John Blackwell: With increased responsibility, Blackwell is expected to take a step forward.

21. Kansas Jayhawks

Darryn Peterson: Peterson is expected to challenge for All-America honors and potentially Big 12 Player of the Year.

22. Creighton Bluejays

Jackson McAndrew: McAndrew’s profile makes him a potential breakout player in the Big East.

23. Tennessee Volunteers

Nate Ament: The freshman has sky-high potential and could be a favorite for SEC Freshman of the Year.

24. NC State Wolfpack

Will Wade: If NC State turns around its season, Wade could be a strong Coach of the Year candidate.

25. North Carolina Tar Heels

Caleb Wilson: The freshman is expected to be one of the best in the country and could take pressure off the Tar Heels.

As the season unfolds, these players and coaches will be ones to watch, potentially leading their teams to glory and earning individual accolades along the way.