UCLA Basketball Is Poised for a Dominant Season – But Can They Live Up to the Hype?
The first AP Top 25 Men's College Basketball preseason rankings have officially dropped, and all eyes are on Mick Cronin’s UCLA Bruins as they gear up for what could be a standout season. The Bruins have landed at No. 12 in the initial poll, solidifying their place among the nation’s elite programs—but is this ranking too generous, or could they be underrated?
UCLA’s Big Ten Dominance Begins
UCLA isn’t just a top-15 team—they’re one of the highest-ranked Big Ten squads in the poll, a conference stacked with powerhouse programs. They join Purdue (No. 1), Michigan (No. 7), Illinois (No. 17), Michigan State (No. 22), and Wisconsin (No. 24) as the Big Ten’s six ranked teams. Meanwhile, conference rivals like Indiana, Iowa, Ohio State, Oregon, USC, and Washington also received votes, proving just how deep and competitive this league will be in 2025-26.
But here’s where it gets interesting: UCLA’s high ranking isn’t just based on reputation—it’s backed by serious roster firepower. Coach Cronin managed to retain four key players from last year’s 23-11 squad, but the real game-changer is the arrival of Donovan Dent, the former New Mexico guard and Mountain West Player of the Year. Dent hasn’t even suited up for the Bruins yet, but he’s already being hyped as one of the best players in the country.
The Donovan Dent Effect: A Game-Changing Addition
ESPN’s Jeff Borzello recently released his Way-Too-Early Top 25 rankings, placing UCLA at No. 15—slightly lower than the AP Poll but still in contention. Borzello singled out Dent as the X-factor for the Bruins, even suggesting he could be a national award contender this season.
"UCLA knew it needed to upgrade its perimeter playmaking, and landing Donovan Dent was a massive win," Borzello wrote. "He averaged *20.4 points per game** at New Mexico last year, and while his usage might dip slightly with more talent around him, he’s still one of the best point guards in the nation."*
And this is the part most people miss: UCLA’s offense was shockingly mediocre last season, ranking 164th overall with struggles in shooting percentages across the board. Dent’s arrival gives them the elite playmaker they desperately needed, and if he meshes well with the returning core, this team could explode offensively.
Can UCLA Make a Deep Tournament Run?
After finishing their first Big Ten season with a solid 23-11 record, the Bruins are trending upward—but now the pressure is on to prove they’re more than just a good team. Are they truly a Final Four contender? Or will they fall short against the Big Ten’s heavyweights?
Let’s stir the pot: Some analysts believe UCLA’s ranking is too high, given their offensive inconsistencies last year. Others argue that with Dent in the mix, they’re a dark horse for the national title.
What Do You Think?
- Is UCLA’s No. 12 ranking justified, or are they overrated?
- Will Donovan Dent be the difference-maker they need?
- Can Mick Cronin lead this team to a championship-caliber season?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear your take!
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