Get ready for some of the most exciting turnarounds in college basketball this season — these teams are poised to bounce back in a big way! But here’s where it gets controversial: Will these predictions hold up, or are some of these teams overhyped? Let’s dive into Andy Katz’s top 10 bounce-back squads for the 2025-26 men’s college basketball season and find out what makes them contenders once again.
NC State
Under Will Wade’s guidance, NC State is shaping up for a remarkable comeback. After a tough season finishing seven games below .500, the Wolfpack have added key transfers like Darrion Williams, Tre Holloman, and Terrance Arceneaux. These acquisitions could catapult the team to a coveted single-digit seed in the NCAA tournament. The turnaround story here is inspiring—can Wade’s strategy transform mediocrity into March Madness magic?Southern Cal (USC)
The Trojans are aiming to return to the Big Dance thanks to the additions of Rodney Rice and Chad Baker-Mazara, both bringing valuable NCAA tournament experience. This boost in depth and leadership could be just what USC needs to break back into postseason contention. And here’s the part most people miss: how quickly team chemistry develops with transfers can make or break a season.Ohio State
Last season, Ohio State looked like a sure-fire NCAA tournament team but stumbled late in the year. With the core group returning intact, the Buckeyes appear ready to correct course. The critical question: Can they maintain focus and avoid the late-season collapse that cost them before? Their bounce-back potential often sparks lively debate among fans and analysts alike.See AlsoEthan Mackenny: Georgia Tech's Left Tackle Legacy | Blocking In The BloodSouth Carolina Women's Basketball: Overcoming Adversity and Moving ForwardHPU Women's Basketball: Fresh Faces, New Chapter with Coach GibsonGonzaga vs Oregon: Highly-Anticipated Nonconference Game on Peacock - Full Preview & AnalysisIndiana
Indiana missed the tournament last year, but a fresh coaching change and a transfer-heavy recruiting class featuring standout Tucker DeVries provide reason for optimism. These changes suggest the Hoosiers are primed to secure a tournament invitation this year. Yet, coaching transitions can be unpredictable—will the new system gel quickly enough?Kansas State
The Wildcats have experienced a rollercoaster over the past three seasons—from an Elite Eight appearance in Jerome Tang’s first year to an NIT bid last season, followed by missing the NCAA tournament altogether. However, the addition of All-American PJ Haggerty from Memphis could spark a resurgence. Can Haggerty’s talent inspire Kansas State to return to the NCAA spotlight?Iowa
Ben McCollum has a proven record of winning wherever he coaches. With Bennett Stirtz leading the squad again, Iowa’s chances of making the NCAA tournament look strong. The question remains: will McCollum’s experience translate into success in this new environment? His track record certainly suggests yes.Washington
Despite finishing last in the Big Ten last season, the Huskies have acquired USC’s top performers, Desmond Claude and Wesley Yates, through transfers. This infusion of talent makes Washington a sleeper pick for the NCAA tournament. Bold claim alert: Can two transfers transform a bottom-ranked team into a competitive force?Georgia Tech
Coming off a .500 season, the Yellow Jackets are optimistic heading into this year with the return of Baye Ndongo. His experience and leadership could be the catalyst that propels Georgia Tech back into NCAA tournament contention. This is a reminder of how a single player’s presence can dramatically impact a team's fortunes.Georgetown
Georgetown has secured enough returnees and transfers to build confidence around a possible NCAA tournament return. The question to the fans: Do these roster moves signal a true resurgence, or is this wishful thinking?Virginia
Under Ryan Odom, who has consistently succeeded in previous programs, Virginia looks ready to flip their last season’s near .500 finish into an NCAA tournament berth. The key difference this time is the scoring talent Odom has brought in via the transfer portal. Will Odom’s coaching prowess and new scoring options be enough to push the Cavaliers over the edge?
And if you’re as excited about the season as we are, don’t miss Andy Katz’s other top 10 rankings:
- The most vibrant college basketball towns that make each season unforgettable.
- The best student sections that bring energy and passion to the games.
- The top arenas that provide unforgettable atmospheres for players and fans alike.
Which team do you believe will have the most dramatic turnaround? Do you agree with Katz’s predictions, or do some names seem overhyped? Share your thoughts and join the debate below — this is the part where your opinion really matters!
