Florida, Illinois Rise in Men’s College Basketball Rankings; Purdue Drops

Avery K. Bristow

Published: February 2, 2026 2:09 PM ET

Florida, Illinois Rise in Men’s College Basketball Rankings; Purdue Drops

As the men’s college basketball season progresses, significant movements within the rankings have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Recent games have seen Florida and Illinois rise in the rankings, showcasing their impressive performances this season. Meanwhile, Purdue has faced challenges that have impacted its standing.

Florida’s Leap in the Rankings

Florida has made waves in the NCAA basketball landscape with a commanding victory over Alabama. The Gators’ standout, Alex Condon, shined with a career-high of 25 points and six assists. This triumph positions Florida at 7-2 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and highlights their strength, as they rank sixth in KenPom metrics.

Illinois’ Dominance Continues

Illinois has emerged as a formidable force, boasting the highest offense in the country. They have recorded an impressive 11 consecutive wins, asserting their dominance over competitors. Following a recent victory against Nebraska, the Fighting Illini have confirmed their status as a serious contender for the NCAA tournament.

Purdue’s Struggles

Conversely, Purdue, which started the season as the top-ranked team, has encountered a rough patch. The Boilermakers have suffered three consecutive losses, raising concerns about their ability to defend against higher-caliber teams. Their struggles have contributed to a noticeable drop in their rankings.

Highlights from Other Teams

Tennessee: The Volunteers are on a three-game winning streak, showcasing a solid defensive strategy.
St. John’s: They have won seven games consecutively, recently defeating Butler by 22 points.
Kentucky: The Wildcats, under John Calipari, defeated Arkansas, indicating a turnaround in their season.
Clemson: With an 8-1 record in the ACC, Clemson’s defensive prowess has been key to their success.

As teams continue to battle through the season, fans and analysts look forward to the evolving rankings and the potential surprises leading up to the NCAA tournament.