when do new college basketball rankings come out

3 min read 25-12-2024

when do new college basketball rankings come out

The college basketball season is a whirlwind of buzzer beaters, upsets, and nail-biting finishes. But amidst the excitement, fans eagerly await the release of the weekly rankings, which dictate the landscape of the sport and the NCAA tournament picture. So, when do these crucial power rankings drop? Let's dive into the schedule of the major polls and what factors influence their release dates.

The Major College Basketball Ranking Systems

Several ranking systems influence the perception of college basketball teams. The most prominent are:

Associated Press (AP) Poll: This is a weekly poll of sportswriters and broadcasters, offering a broad perspective on the sport's top teams. It's one of the oldest and most respected college basketball rankings.
Coaches Poll: Conducted by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), this poll provides the perspective of college basketball coaches themselves. This offers a potentially different insight compared to the AP Poll.
NET Rankings (NCAA Evaluation Tool): Unlike the AP and Coaches Polls, the NET is a data-driven ranking system created by the NCAA. This system uses a complex algorithm to rank teams based on several factors including strength of schedule, game results, and other statistical metrics.

The Weekly Release Schedule: When to Expect Updates

The exact release date can vary slightly from week to week, but you can generally expect updates on the following schedule:

AP Poll & Coaches Poll:

Typically released on Mondays: Both the AP and Coaches Polls are usually released on Monday afternoons, following the conclusion of the majority of weekend games. However, occasionally, the release might shift slightly depending on game schedules. Always check reputable sports news sites for the most up-to-date information.

NET Rankings:

Updated Daily: Unlike the AP and Coaches Polls, the NET rankings are updated daily by the NCAA. This provides a more dynamic view of team performance, allowing for immediate adjustments based on game outcomes. This constant updating makes it a valuable tool for following team progress throughout the week.

Factors Affecting Release Dates

While the general schedule is relatively consistent, some factors can cause minor delays:

Unexpected Game Postponements or Cancellations: Severe weather or unforeseen circumstances might delay games, affecting the ranking process. Organizers need time to collect all necessary data before making a final decision.
Major Conference Tournaments: The intensity of conference tournament play might lead to a slightly delayed release to accurately reflect the results.

Where to Find the Latest Rankings

Staying updated is easy! Several reliable sources provide up-to-date college basketball rankings:

ESPN: A comprehensive sports network covering all aspects of college basketball, including live scores, news, and the latest rankings.
NCAA.com: The official website of the NCAA offers up-to-date NET rankings and other important information.
USA Today Sports: A reputable source offering news, analysis, and the latest rankings.

Beyond the Weekly Updates: Looking Ahead

While weekly rankings are the most common, keep in mind that major changes occur throughout the season. The NCAA Tournament selection committee uses a variety of factors to determine the field of 68. These factors extend beyond simple rankings, including strength of schedule, head-to-head results, and overall team performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the most important ranking system?

A: There's no single "most important" system. The AP Poll, Coaches Poll, and NET Rankings all offer different perspectives and are used by various stakeholders. The NCAA Tournament selection committee uses a holistic approach, considering all relevant factors.

Q: Do the rankings affect a team's seeding in the NCAA Tournament?

A: While rankings are a significant factor, the NCAA Tournament selection committee considers several metrics. Rankings are influential but aren't the sole determinant.

Q: How often are the NET rankings updated?

A: The NET rankings are updated daily, providing a constantly evolving picture of team performance.

By understanding the timing and nuances of college basketball rankings, you can better follow your favorite teams and the overall landscape of the season. Enjoy the games!