when does ncaa basketball rankings come out

3 min read 01-02-2025

when does ncaa basketball rankings come out

When Do NCAA Basketball Rankings Come Out? Your Guide to the College Hoops Season

Title Tag: NCAA Basketball Rankings Release Dates | Your Ultimate Guide

Meta Description: Find out exactly when the major NCAA basketball rankings (AP Poll, Coaches Poll) are released throughout the season! We cover the schedule, explain how rankings work, and offer tips for staying updated. Get ready for March Madness!

The anticipation is palpable. The roar of the crowd, the swish of the net, the nail-biting finishes – college basketball season is here! But for many fans, following the season isn't just about watching games; it's about tracking the rankings. So, when do those crucial NCAA basketball rankings come out? Let's dive in.

The Main Contenders: AP Poll & Coaches Poll

Two primary rankings dominate the college basketball landscape: the Associated Press (AP) Poll and the USA Today Coaches Poll. Both offer a different perspective on the nation's best teams.

AP Poll: This ranking is voted on by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters across the country. It's a widely recognized and respected indicator of team performance.
Coaches Poll: This poll consists of votes from NCAA Division I men's basketball coaches. Their insights offer a different perspective, often reflecting a more in-depth understanding of team strategies and potential.

The Ranking Release Schedule: A Season-Long Journey

The rankings aren't just released once. Both the AP and Coaches polls are updated regularly throughout the season, providing a dynamic view of the ever-shifting landscape of college basketball. While the exact dates can vary slightly year to year, here's a general timeline:

Preseason:

Early October/Late September: Both the AP and Coaches polls release their preseason rankings. This gives fans an early glimpse into how experts perceive the teams before the regular season even begins. It's a great way to start following your favorite teams and predicting potential upsets.

Regular Season:

Weekly Updates: Throughout the regular season (typically November to early March), both polls are updated weekly, usually on Mondays. These updates reflect the results of the previous week's games. Major upsets and impressive wins can significantly impact a team's ranking, leading to exciting shifts in the standings.

Postseason:

March Madness: The rankings continue to be updated even during the NCAA Tournament (March Madness). However, the impact diminishes somewhat as the tournament results directly determine the ultimate champion. The final rankings are typically released after the championship game.

Beyond the Main Polls: Other Rankings to Consider

While the AP and Coaches polls are the most prominent, other rankings exist and can be insightful. Websites and sports news outlets often have their own power rankings, offering alternative perspectives and sometimes highlighting up-and-coming teams that might be overlooked in the major polls.

Staying Updated: Your Guide to Following the Rankings

ESPN: ESPN is a great resource for real-time updates on both the AP and Coaches polls, as well as expert analysis.
NCAA Website: The official NCAA website will usually post links to the polls.
Sports News Websites: Major sports news outlets (like CBS Sports, USA Today, etc.) will prominently feature the rankings updates.

Understanding Ranking Methodology: It's More Than Just Wins and Losses

While winning games is obviously crucial, the rankings aren't simply a reflection of win-loss records. Factors such as:

Strength of Schedule: Playing against tough opponents carries more weight.
Margin of Victory: Dominating wins over weaker opponents can boost a team's ranking.
Quality Wins: Beating highly-ranked teams significantly impacts a team's standing.

By understanding how rankings are compiled, you can better appreciate the fluctuations throughout the season and enjoy the excitement of college basketball even more.

Conclusion: Get Ready for the Rankings Rollercoaster!

The release dates of the NCAA basketball rankings are a crucial part of the college basketball experience. Keep an eye on the weekly updates to stay informed and fully immersed in the thrilling world of college hoops! Remember to check the major sports websites and ESPN for the most up-to-date information. Now, go cheer on your favorite team!