when do cbb rankings come out

2 min read 24-02-2025

College basketball is a thrilling sport, full of buzzer-beaters, upsets, and the ever-evolving landscape of rankings. But when exactly do those crucial CBB rankings come out? Understanding the release schedule is key for fans, bettors, and even coaches strategizing their season. This comprehensive guide breaks down the timing and significance of the major college basketball rankings.

The Main Ranking Systems: Timing and Importance

Several prominent organizations release weekly college basketball rankings throughout the season. Each has its own methodology, but they all heavily influence the perception of teams, seeding for the NCAA tournament, and even media narratives. Here's a breakdown:

1. Associated Press (AP) Poll

When it comes out: The AP Poll typically releases its rankings on Mondays throughout the season, starting before the official start of the season.
Importance: One of the oldest and most respected polls, the AP Poll carries significant weight. It reflects the opinions of sportswriters across the country. A high AP ranking boosts a team's profile and can influence tournament seeding.

2. Coaches Poll (USA Today)

When it comes out: Similar to the AP Poll, the Coaches Poll is usually released on Mondays, commencing before the season officially tips off.
Importance: This poll represents the collective wisdom of college basketball coaches. It provides a different perspective compared to the AP Poll, offering a potentially valuable contrasting view of team strengths and weaknesses.

3. NET Ranking (NCAA Evaluation Tool)

When it comes out: The NET ranking is updated daily throughout the season by the NCAA.
Importance: Unlike the AP and Coaches Polls which are subjective, the NET ranking utilizes a complex algorithm to assess team performance. The NCAA uses the NET ranking heavily in seeding the NCAA Tournament. It's a crucial metric for determining a team's true strength.

4. Other Rankings and Power Rankings

Numerous other websites and sports publications publish their own college basketball power rankings throughout the season. These often incorporate advanced metrics and subjective analysis. While not possessing the same official weight as the AP, Coaches, or NET rankings, these can still offer valuable insights into team performance and potential. Their release schedules vary.

The Preseason Rankings: Setting the Stage

Both the AP and Coaches Polls release preseason rankings before the regular season even begins. These initial rankings serve as a benchmark, establishing early expectations for teams based on returning players, recruiting classes, and the previous season's performance. They generate considerable buzz and excitement for the upcoming season.

The Mid-Season Shift: Rankings Reflecting Performance

As the season progresses, the rankings constantly evolve. Upsets, strong performances, and injuries all lead to shifts in the rankings. Keeping track of these changes is essential for anyone following college basketball closely. Regularly checking the websites of AP, USA Today, and the NCAA will provide the latest updates.

Ranking Importance for the NCAA Tournament

The rankings, particularly the NET ranking, play a vital role in determining the seeding for the NCAA Tournament. A higher ranking generally means a better seed, which provides advantages like a less challenging early-round opponent and the potential to stay longer in the tournament. Therefore, understanding the rankings' timing and how they evolve is crucial in predicting tournament matchups and outcomes.

Conclusion: Stay Informed on CBB Rankings

Knowing when the major CBB rankings come out is essential for any serious college basketball fan. The AP Poll, Coaches Poll, and especially the NET ranking, significantly influence the season's narrative, the tournament seeding, and the overall excitement surrounding the sport. By staying updated on these rankings, you can fully appreciate the dynamic world of college basketball.