RBTL's College Basketball Top 10 Rankings: March Madness Approaches
- Jack Thompson
- Feb 20, 2025
- 3 min read
As March inches closer, the college basketball landscape is heating up, and Read Between the Lines (RBTL) is here to break down the top 10 teams making noise this season. With title contenders, dark horses, and rising stars, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be a wild ride. Let’s dive into the top squads:
1. Auburn Tigers (23-2)
The Tigers hold firm at No. 1, backed by their elite defense and balanced scoring attack. Auburn has been the most consistent team all season, with First Team All-American forward and National Player of the Year candidate Johni Broome anchoring their frontcourt dominance. Auburn’s blend of experience, size, and scoring depth makes them the team to beat heading into March.
2. Florida Gators (23-3)
The Gators are on a roll, led by dynamic guards Walter Clayton and transfer Alijah Martin. With elite depth at every position, Florida is primed for a deep tournament run. Their backcourt’s ability to control the tempo and make clutch plays gives them an edge against any opponent.
3. Duke Blue Devils (23-3)
The Blue Devils continue to roll through the ACC and are looking as dangerous as ever. Led by the presumed No. 1 NBA Draft pick and National Player of the Year candidate Cooper Flagg—who leads Duke in all major statistical categories—this squad boasts a perfect mix of young talent and veteran leadership. Duke’s championship pedigree combined with Flagg’s star power makes them a legitimate threat for the top seed.
4. Houston Cougars (22-4)
Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars are back to doing what they do best: suffocating teams with elite defense. Houston’s physicality and defensive intensity make them a nightmare matchup for anyone. With their offense finally finding its rhythm, the Cougars could be gearing up for another deep run.
5. Alabama Crimson Tide (21-5)
The Crimson Tide boast one of the nation’s most potent offenses. Their high-tempo attack, led by First Team All-American candidate Mark Sears, is tough to stop. Alabama’s ability to stretch the floor and score in bunches makes them a dangerous out for any opponent looking to slow them down.
6. Tennessee Volunteers (21-5)
The Vols continue to shine with one of the best defensive units in the country. Their experience and toughness make them a dangerous postseason contender. Tennessee’s ability to grind out wins in low-scoring affairs will be crucial in March.
7. Texas A&M Aggies (20-6)
Buzz Williams’ Aggies have been grinding out wins with their trademark physicality and toughness. Their ability to wear down opponents in close games makes them a sleeper team heading into March. If they can get their shooting woes under control, the Aggies could surprise a lot of brackets.
8. Iowa State Cyclones (21-5)
The Cyclones have been one of the toughest teams in the Big 12, peaking at the right time. Their defense continues to impress, making them a tough out for any team. Iowa State’s gritty style of play and ability to close out games make them a dangerous tournament team.
9. St. John’s Red Storm (23-4)
The Red Storm have taken the Big East by storm—literally. Their offense has been explosive all season. If they can tighten up defensively, St. John’s could make a deep tournament run. Their ability to score quickly and often makes them a team to watch.
10. Wisconsin Badgers (21-5)
The Badgers have been surging lately, led by John Tonje—possibly the best transfer in the nation—who is averaging 26 points per game over their last five outings. With a perfect blend of size and scoring guards, Wisconsin is starting to make serious noise as we get closer to the dance.
On the Outside Looking In:
Missouri
Michigan State
Michigan
Texas Tech
Marquette
Key Upcoming Games to Watch:
Final Thoughts:
March is shaping up to be a wild ride with several teams poised for deep tournament runs. As of now, it’s Auburn’s house—they’ve been the most dominant team thus far. However, keep an eye on Duke, Florida, and Alabama as they make a strong push for that coveted No. 1 seed. For the rest, the physical, defensive styles of Houston, Texas A&M, and Iowa State make them intriguing dark horses come tournament time.
One thing’s for sure—March Madness is going to deliver.
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