Way-Too-Early 2026-27 Big Ten Basketball Power Rankings: Illinois Leads the Pack?

For the past couple of decades, the Big Ten has left a lot to be desired in the NCAA Tournament – but not in 2025-26. The league sent four teams to the Elite Eight and two squads to the Final Four. In the process, it built a valid argument as the premier hoops conference in the nation. Heading into the 2026-27 season, the Big Ten appears poised to again cement that status. Here is our first edition of way-too-early Big Ten power rankings:

Early 2026-27 Big Ten basketball power rankings

18. Northwestern

Mar 7, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Northwestern Wildcats guard Angelo Ciaravino (44) dribbles against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the second half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images | Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Wildcats were decimated by the transfer portal, and superstar forward Nick Martinelli is out of eligibility.

Player to watch: Angelo Ciaravino

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17. Penn State

Mar 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach Mike Rhoades gestures to his team against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

Another squad that has faced massive roster turnover, the Nittany Lions are starting almost entirely fresh after finishing dead last in the Big Ten a year ago.

Player to watch: Ivan Juric

16. Rutgers

Mar 11, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Tariq Francis (0) after making a three point basket against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

The Scarlet Knights appear poised to once again come up short on firepower, destined for yet another bottom-tier Big Ten season.

Player to watch: Tariq Francis

15. Washington

Mar 7, 2026; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Washington Huskies head coach Danny Sprinkle looks on during the first half against the Oregon Ducks at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images | Craig Strobeck-Imagn…

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Publish date : 2026-04-23 22:45:00

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