Michigan take AP poll top spot as Arizona slide to fourth place

Michigan have taken over the number one spot in the Associated Press men’s college basketball poll following back-to-back defeats for long-time leaders Arizona.

The Wolverines have capitalized on the Wildcats’ stumble to claim their first pole position of the 2025-26 season.

Holding a dominant 24-1 record, the Ann Arbor program are currently riding a 10-game winning streak.

Their ascent comes at a crucial juncture, with high-profile fixtures against Purdue and Duke looming on the schedule this week.

Arizona’s historic slide

The Wildcats had enjoyed a comfortable nine-week residency at the summit of the rankings.

However, consecutive losses to Kansas and Texas Tech have proved costly for the former pace-setters.

Arizona have now dropped to fourth, a fall exacerbated by historical trends regarding teams losing momentum after strong starts.

They became only the third Division I team in 40 years to lose consecutive games immediately following a start of 20-0 or better.

Houston and Duke climb

The shake-up at the top has allowed other title contenders to improve their standing within the top five.

Houston have moved up to second place, bolstered by an active six-game winning run.

The Cougars recently secured their 18th straight home victory with a convincing win over Kansas State.

Duke have also been beneficiaries of the reshuffle, climbing one place to sit third in the nation.

The Blue Devils extended their own formidable home record to 29 straight wins after defeating Clemson on Saturday.

Boilermakers and Huskies in the mix

UConn continue to apply pressure on the leading pack from the fifth spot.

Meanwhile, Iowa State occupy sixth place after snapping Kansas’ eight-game winning streak.

Purdue have jumped significantly from 13th to seventh following a strong week of performances.

The Boilermakers were led by Braden Smith, who has now moved into sixth on the all-time Division I career assists list.