Where Arizona basketball ranks in KenPom’s 2026-27 college basketball preseason rankings

Tommy Lloyd and the Arizona Wildcats have been among the best regular-season teams in college basketball since he took over in 2021-22, with last year finally resulting in a deep run in March and the program’s first Final Four appearance since 2001.

Expectations are even higher now as Lloyd enters his sixth season in Tucson, with a roster that only features two key returners from last year, but includes a bevy of new stars that make this one of the most talented teams in the country.

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The preseason KenPom ratings were published on Sunday and Arizona will begin the campaign at No. 5 overall and second in the Big 12. Duke and Florida take the top two spots, with Houston and Illinois at No. 3 and 4.

Iowa State, Michigan State, Kansas, Alabama, and Texas round out the top ten, while Texas Tech is at No. 12 to give the Big 12 five top 12 teams – far and away the most of any conference.

Can Arizona make another national championship run?

Jan 10, 2026; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) looks on during the game between the Horned Frogs and the Wildcats at Ed and Rae Schollmaier Arena. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Arizona was a crummy first half against Michigan away from making the national championship last year, and despite the losses of star freshmen Koa Peat and Brayden Burries, as well as Big 12 Player of the Year Jaden Bradley, the Wildcats are set to compete for another title in 2026-27.

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Star center Mo Krivas and versatile forward Ivan Kharchenkov are both back for coach Lloyd and should compete for All-Big 12 and All-American honors this season.

Meanwhile, the Wildcats made strong additions around the dynamic duo, including 5-star freshman Caleb Holt – widely projected as a top three pick in the NBA draft – and transfer point guards Derek Dixon and JJ Mandaquit.

Add in Clemson fifth-year transfer RJ Godfrey – who is battling the NCAA for eligibility – and you have a roster perfectly suited to battle for the Big 12…

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Publish date : 2026-10-12 17:57:00

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