Coach Mark Pope proved his coaching prowess at the highest level in leading the Wildcats to the Sweet Sixteen in 2025. Looking ahead, his team may be even more talented on paper.
After a surprise run to the Sweet Sixteen following a relatively disappointing regular season, things are looking up for the Razorbacks. While multiple key players will depart, combo guard and former five-star D.J. Wagner will be back after averaging 11.2 points and 3.6 assists in his freshman season. Former four-star forward Karter Knox is also returning after showing promise as a three-level scorer.
Though he’s losing his top four scorers from a season ago, coach Rick Barnes has repeatedly done a terrific job with the Volunteers, and 2026 is expected to be no different.
Coach Nate Oats and the Crimson Tide now have the expectation of being a top-ranked team, which will be difficult considering the loss of point guard Mark Sears and several other key contributors. Backup guard Aden Holloway seems poised to step into that role after averaging 11.4 points in limited minutes as a sophomore.
All five starters from Auburn’s Final Four run are graduating, yet coach Bruce Pearl did a tremendous job bringing in talent and proven production through the transfer portal. Junior forward Keyshawn Hall averaged 18.8 points and 7.1 rebounds for the UCF Knights a season ago.
