Maryland Basketball Starts Low 2025-26 Season After Key Player Exit, Coaching Change

The 2025-26 college basketball season is shaping up with notable storylines across multiple teams and conferences. Maryland men's basketball, coming off a strong 27-9 record and a Sweet 16 appearance, faces uncertainty with a new head coach, Buzz Williams, and a lower preseason CBS Sports ranking of 51st. Arizona State is looking to rebound from a disappointing 4-16 conference record last season, with a revamped roster featuring more experience and international players, though preseason rankings remain low. Meanwhile, Arizona Wildcats prepare for their season opener against Florida, focusing on team identity development and managing potential redshirt players for long-term growth. In the Big 12, power rankings show minor shifts with Kansas State moving up and Arizona State dropping, reflecting recent game outcomes and expectations. Overall, coaching changes, player departures, and roster rebuilds are central themes as teams navigate the competitive landscape of college basketball.