Pac-12 places four teams in Hotline rankings

The Pac-12, despite having only two teams in the preseason top-25 rankings, has the potential for at least four teams to make it to the NCAA Tournament. While Arizona and USC are the clear favorites, Colorado and UCLA also have reasonable chances. Meanwhile, Arizona State and Oregon should not be dismissed as at-large contenders. Here are the Hotline’s top-25 rankings for the upcoming season:

1. Kansas
With the addition of Hunter Dickinson, one of the nation’s top players, to a strong group of returnees, the Jayhawks could be the top-seeded team in the NCAA Tournament.

2. Purdue
Thanks to center Zach Edey’s decision to return, the Boilermakers are guaranteed a spot in the top tier of college basketball. They have five returning starters from a team that won 29 games last season.

3. Duke
Duke boasts an impressive list of blue-chip prospects, led by Kyle Filipowski and Jeremy Roach. Second-year coach Jon Scheyer is under pressure to make a deep run in March.

4. Marquette
The defending Big East regular season and tournament champions have almost all their key players back, except for forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper. However, their conference is highly competitive.

5. Michigan State
Coach Tom Izzo’s team is well-positioned for a strong NCAA Tournament run with a talented group of recruits joining the team. Guard Tyson Walker is the standout player to watch.

6. UConn
Despite facing attrition, the reigning national champions have a promising incoming class, including Rutgers transfer Cam Spencer. Other teams should beware of facing them early in the season.

7. USC
USC had a successful offseason with the return of guard Boogie Ellis and the addition of the nation’s top recruit, guard Isaiah Collier. The team also has a talented frontcourt and is coached by Andy Enfield.

8. Houston
Guard Jamal Shead’s return and the arrival of wing LJ Cryer will strengthen Houston’s roster as they transition to the Big 12. The increased competition will prepare them for the NCAAs.

9. Arizona
Despite losing some key players, Arizona’s tougher and more athletic lineup could benefit them in March. The Wildcats’ success will be measured by their performance in the NCAA Tournament.

10. San Diego State
After their impressive run to the NCAA Tournament final last season, San Diego State must deal with higher expectations and attention. However, they have key returning players and a talented guard from USC joining the team.

11. Tennessee
Tennessee made significant additions through the transfer portal and is the team to beat in the SEC. The return of guard Zakai Zeigler from injury will be crucial for their success.

12. Creighton
Creighton has three double-digit scorers returning from a team that won 24 games last season. However, they face tough competition in the stacked Big East.

13. Kentucky
Kentucky returned to their successful one-and-done strategy, signing top recruits in multiple positions. Coach John Calipari will have a dangerous team come March.

14. FAU
FAU’s miraculous Final Four run last season has earned them faith, especially as they return all five starters and coach Dusty May. However, their move to the American Athletic Conference will provide tougher competition.

15. Arkansas
Arkansas is the most talented team in the SEC, thanks to their strong recruiting class and impact transfers. They should not be overlooked as a Final Four contender.

16. Miami
Miami has a void to fill with the departure of guard Isaiah Wong, but coach Jim Larranaga’s program is capable of contending in the wide-open ACC after Duke.

17. Gonzaga
Gonzaga may not have the same level of talent as in previous years, but they have key transfers to offset their losses. They remain the team to beat in the WCC.

18. North Carolina
After a disappointing season, North Carolina looks to bounce back. Returning players Armando Bacot and R.J. Davis will be important, but newcomers will play a significant role.

19. Colorado
Colorado is a top contender in the Pac-12, with the return of forward Tristan da Silva and guard KJ Simpson. Newcomers Cody Williams and Eddie Lampkin will also contribute to the team’s success.

20. Villanova
Villanova made strong additions through the transfer portal and should quickly recover from their dip last season. They remain a formidable team under coach Jay Wright.

21. Texas A&M
Texas A&M has been successful in the regular season but has struggled in the NCAAs. With four returning starters, the team hopes to perform better in the tournament.

22. Saint Mary’s
Saint Mary’s relies on excellent coaching from Randy Bennett but lacks high-end talent. They are expected to win around 20 games but face limitations in the NCAA Tournament.

23. Baylor
Baylor has consistently performed well in a competitive league and deserves recognition. However, coach Scott Drew faces challenges after losing key players.

24. St. John’s
First-year coach Rick Pitino has quickly assembled a talented team with transfers. St. John’s is expected to participate in the NCAAs, but they may face NCAA investigations.

25. UCLA
Despite significant roster turnover, coach Mick Cronin is capable of maximizing the team’s potential. UCLA should not be overlooked in what promises to be a competitive conference race.

Reference