The first week of the 2026-27 college basketball season delivered significant movement in the projected AP Top 25 poll, with UCLA making the biggest jump after defeating No. 5 Arizona 84-75 in Las Vegas. The Bruins, ranked No. 22 in the preseason, are projected to surge into the top 10 following the statement win and a subsequent blowout of North Florida.
Top Four Unchanged
Florida, Duke, Illinois, and UConn hold the top four spots after each starting 2-0. Florida earned a signature win over in-state rival No. 14 Miami, while UConn defeated reigning national champion Michigan in a Boston rematch of last season's title game. Silas Demary Jr. and Braylon Mullins led the Huskies' backcourt in the victory.
Virginia Makes Statement
No. 9 Virginia dominated No. 12 Arkansas 91-72 on Sunday, with four Cavaliers players scoring in double figures. The win projects Virginia to rise several spots in Monday's official poll.
Arizona Holds Top 10 Despite Loss
Despite the opening-night loss to UCLA, Arizona is projected to remain in the top 10 after bouncing back with a win over Cal Poly, where Motiejus Krivas scored 30 points.
Notable Movers
Michigan State rises to No. 5 behind Jeremy Fears Jr.'s strong start (13 points, 11 assists vs. Quinnipiac). Texas sits at No. 6, while UCLA checks in at No. 8. Saint Louis enters the rankings at No. 25 after upsetting Missouri 90-84. Iowa State is the lone team projected to drop out.
