Kentucky Cracks Top 10 in ESPN’s Early Rankings, but Arkansas Takes the Edge
As anticipation builds for the 2025-26 college basketball season, ESPN’s Jeff Borzello has released his “Way-Too-Early Top 25” — and it’s already sparking debate. Kentucky claims the No. 10 position, but just ahead of them, at No. 9, sits Arkansas, now under the leadership of former Wildcats coach John Calipari.
That ranking difference might fuel Kentucky’s fire heading into Mark Pope’s second year at the helm. Borzello highlighted Kentucky’s impressive depth, especially among the guards. Transfers such as Jaland Lowe (Pitt), Kam Williams (Tulane), and Denzel Aberdeen (Florida) bring experience, while highly touted freshman Jasper Johnson adds five-star potential. With the possible return of Otega Oweh and energetic guard Collin Chandler, the Wildcats’ backcourt has the tools to compete at the highest level.
In the paint, Kentucky has added size and defensive grit. Mouhamed Dioubate from Alabama and Jayden Quaintance from Arizona State lead a reloaded frontcourt. However, Quaintance, a standout prospect, is recovering from an ACL tear suffered in February, and his availability for the season opener is uncertain.
Should Quaintance be sidelined early, the team will lean more on Trent Noah, Dioubate, and veteran center Brandon Garrison. Freshman big man Malachi Moreno might also be called into action earlier than planned.
While Quaintance’s injury is something to monitor, it doesn’t necessarily lower Kentucky’s long-term potential. In fact, it could accelerate the development of key players they’ll need come tournament time.
On the other side, Arkansas’ slightly higher ranking under Calipari adds extra intrigue. The Razorbacks have aggressively reloaded through the transfer portal and incoming recruits, looking to rebound after a turbulent final season before Calipari’s departure from Kentucky.
For Pope and the Wildcats, however, the mission goes beyond preseason rankings. With a well-balanced, deep, and athletic roster, they’re eyeing a national championship — and if the team gels quickly and stays healthy, Kentucky could make serious noise come March.
