
The latest Associated Press (AP) Top 25 college basketball polls, released on December 16, 2024, have introduced notable shifts in both men’s and women’s rankings, reflecting the dynamic nature of the current season.
Men’s Basketball Rankings:
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has demonstrated remarkable strength, securing eight spots in the AP Top 25, with five teams positioned within the top seven. Tennessee leads the nation at No. 1, followed closely by Auburn at No. 2. Kentucky has ascended to No. 4, marking a one-spot improvement from the previous week. This upward movement comes ahead of their anticipated matchup with Ohio State in the CBS Sports Classic.
Marquette has experienced a slight decline, moving from No. 6 to No. 9 after a loss to Dayton. Despite this setback, the Golden Eagles maintain a strong 9-2 record, including significant victories over Purdue, Wisconsin, Georgia, and Maryland. This ranking extends Marquette’s presence in the AP Top 25 to 38 consecutive weeks, the program’s longest streak since 1969-1979.
Oregon has made a notable entry into the top 10, now occupying the No. 10 position. Conversely, Gonzaga has dropped five spots to No. 13 following recent performances.
Women’s Basketball Rankings:
UCLA has achieved a historic milestone, ascending to the No. 1 spot for the first time. This achievement follows a decisive 77-62 victory over defending champions South Carolina, ending their 43-game winning streak. The Bruins’ success is attributed to a well-rounded team effort, featuring standout performances from junior center Lauren Betts and freshman Elina Aarnisalo.
Georgia Tech has entered the rankings at No. 25, marking the program’s best-ever start with a 10-0 record. A commanding win over North Carolina and significant contributions from players like freshman Dani Carnegie have been instrumental in their rise.
Notre Dame has climbed to No. 3 after a 79-68 victory against UConn, with Hannah Hidalgo leading the team with a career-high 29 points. UConn, dealing with injuries to key players, has consequently seen a slight decline in the rankings.
These developments underscore the competitive landscape of college basketball, with teams across the nation striving for excellence as the season progresses.
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