when do new college basketball rankings come out

2 min read 25-12-2024

when do new college basketball rankings come out

The college basketball season is a whirlwind of buzzer beaters, upsets, and nail-biting finishes. But for fans and analysts alike, another crucial element adds to the excitement: the weekly rankings. Knowing when these rankings drop is key to staying on top of the ever-shifting landscape of college hoops. This guide breaks down the release schedules of the major college basketball rankings.

The Major College Basketball Ranking Systems

Several organizations release influential college basketball rankings throughout the season. Here are the most prominent:

Associated Press (AP) Poll: One of the oldest and most respected polls, the AP Poll is a weekly ranking of the top 25 teams based on votes from sportswriters and broadcasters across the country. Its release date is typically announced each week.
Coaches Poll (USA Today): This poll mirrors the AP Poll in format, but it's compiled from votes by Division I men's basketball coaches. The release schedule is generally consistent with the AP Poll.
NET Rankings (NCAA): Unlike the AP and Coaches Polls, the NCAA's NET Rankings are a data-driven system that uses a complex algorithm to assess team strength. This ranking is updated daily and reflects the most current game results. It's a crucial factor in NCAA tournament selection.

When to Expect the Weekly Rankings

The exact release date for the AP and Coaches Polls can vary slightly from week to week, but generally, you can expect them to be released on Mondays or Tuesdays following the weekend's games. Check the official websites of the AP and USA Today for the most up-to-date information on release times.

The NCAA's NET Rankings, because they're updated daily, don't have a set "release" schedule like the polls. You can access the latest NET Rankings anytime on the NCAA website.

Understanding the Ranking Process

It's important to remember that these rankings are subjective (AP and Coaches Polls) or based on algorithms (NET Rankings). Upsets and close games can significantly impact the rankings week to week. A team's performance against strong opponents heavily influences their placement.

Factors Influencing Rankings

Strength of Schedule: Playing against tough opponents, even with losses, can boost a team's ranking.
Head-to-Head Results: Wins and losses against ranked opponents carry significant weight.
Point Differentials: Consistently winning by large margins demonstrates dominance.
Quality Wins: Beating highly-ranked teams significantly improves a team's standing.

Beyond the Top 25

While the Top 25 rankings get the most attention, many other ranking systems exist. Some focus on specific conferences, while others use alternative metrics to evaluate teams. These provide alternative perspectives and a broader understanding of the college basketball landscape.

Stay Informed Throughout the Season

Following the college basketball rankings is a crucial part of the fan experience. Bookmark the websites of the AP, USA Today, and the NCAA to stay informed. Using sports news websites and apps can also provide timely updates on ranking releases and analysis.

By understanding the release schedules and the factors that influence these rankings, you'll be well-equipped to follow the exciting world of college basketball and predict the potential contenders for March Madness!