This week in men’s college basketball, the landscape has shifted dramatically with previously undefeated and top-ranked Arizona suffering back-to-back losses. This series of defeats has allowed Miami University (Miami, OH) to emerge as the last unbeaten team in Division I college basketball. As of February 15, 2026, Miami stands undefeated at 24-0, a remarkable feat that has generated significant buzz around the program and head coach Travis Steele.
While the RedHawks’ perfect record is commendable, I have chosen not to include them in my top 25 rankings. Despite the undeniable challenge of maintaining an unbeaten streak into late February, I believe that ranking them among the elite teams requires more than just a zero in the loss column. It’s a narrative that resonates well with fans who root for underdog stories, but in my assessment, Miami does not yet belong to the upper tier of college basketball teams.
The word “undefeated” carries weight, yet it alone does not compel me to rank Miami among the top 25 teams. I genuinely hope they continue their winning streak and believe they have a strong case for inclusion in the NCAA Tournament, irrespective of their conference outcomes.
Current Rankings Overview
As we look at the current state of college basketball, here are some noteworthy teams making headlines:
- Utah State is tied with San Diego State for first place in the Mountain West, showcasing their strength with a 24-point victory over a struggling Memphis team.
- Louisville has re-entered the rankings following a five-game winning streak, including a staggering 118-point game against NC State.
- Tennessee has moved up in the rankings after recent victories against Mississippi State and LSU, continuing to demonstrate their defensive prowess.
- Alabama is on a four-game winning streak in the SEC, including a dynamic three-point performance.
- Wisconsin has been impressive in the Big Ten, with standout performances from their backcourt duo.
Key Performers and Emerging Storylines
In individual performances, Darius Acuff Jr. of Arkansas has emerged as one of the best players in the country, leading his team to a significant win over Auburn. Meanwhile, the injury to Caleb Wilson of North Carolina, who is out indefinitely, has impacted the team’s performance and standings.
Saint Louis has dominated their recent games, winning by a combined 51 points against lesser opponents, affirming their position in the Atlantic 10. St. John’s recent win against Providence was overshadowed by a fight, yet Dylan Darling shone with 23 points off the bench.
Challenges and Upcoming Matches
As the season progresses, challenges remain for teams like Michigan State, who have struggled recently but are set to host UCLA and Ohio State for crucial matchups. Meanwhile, Nebraska is proving their toughness despite a recent loss to Purdue, maintaining a reputation as a team that can shoot well from three-point range.
Looking ahead, the upcoming match between Miami and Ohio on February 19 is poised to be significant, especially as Miami aims to extend their unbeaten streak. Texas Tech’s recent victory over Arizona highlights the competitive nature of this season, as they prepare for future matchups that could further shake up the rankings.
With the NCAA Tournament approaching, teams need to solidify their positions and make a strong case for selection. The ongoing battles in conferences will be pivotal as the season draws to a close.
The implications of these games will not only affect rankings but similarly the landscape of the NCAA Tournament. Fans are encouraged to follow their teams closely as the excitement builds towards March Madness.
What are your thoughts on Miami’s performance this season? Do you think their undefeated record justifies a place in the rankings? Share your comments and insights!