The Big 12 may not have the most AP Top 25 teams or the most programs built for lengthy NCAA Tournament runs, but it may be the richest in talent of any men’s college basketball conference.
Several Big 12 teams were thrust into the fire throughout nonconference play, facing some of the nation’s finest. From the Gonzaga Bulldogs of misty Spokane to the Florida Gators of sweltering Gainesville, the Big 12 has gone near and far to prove its superiority over other collections of talent.
Every team in the conference emerged from these slates with a winning record, including the four newbies: the Colorado Buffaloes, Arizona Wildcats, Arizona State Sun Devils and Utah Utes. And while the standings indicate several equally-matched teams in terms of record, some teams are clearly superior.
Here are our updated Big 12 men’s basketball power rankings with conference play set to begin Monday:
16
Kansas State Wildcats (6-5)
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
The Wildcats are off to a rocky start in head coach Jerome Tang’s third season. Three straight losses to St. John’s, Drake and Wichita State have K-State desperately needing a turnaround if it intends to return to the Elite 8.
Next game: Dec. 30 vs. No. 17 Cincinnati Bearcats, 5 p.m. MT (CBS Sports Network)
15
Utah Utes (8-3)
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Fortune has favored the Utes with eight wins in 11 contests, though with a pillow-soft schedule that may leave their most impressive win being over Queens. Senior guard Gabe Madsen has carried much of the scoring load and will need to continue if Utah wants to compete.
Next game: Dec. 31 at No. 25 Baylor Bears, noon MT (ESPN+)
14
Oklahoma State Cowboys (8-3)
Syndication: The Oklahoman
The Cowboys may be overachieving thus far, with solid wins over the Seton Hall Pirates and Miami Hurricanes and admirable performances despite losses to the Florida Atlantic Owls and Oklahoma Sooners. However, eked-out victories over the Tarleton State Texans and Southern Illinois Salukis leave much to be desired.
Next game: 12/30 vs. No. 15. Houston Cougars, 6 p.m. MT (ESPN+)
13
TCU Horned Frogs (7-4)
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Consistency across the board will be key if the Horned Frogs want to be anything more than a…
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