The Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball team has surged to the No. 1 spot in the AP Top 25 Poll following a significant shakeup in college basketball rankings this week. The Volunteers, under the direction of head coach Rick Barnes, have demonstrated outstanding performance this season, leading to their ascendance in the rankings. According to the latest AP Poll released on December 9, 2024, Tennessee earned 1,400 voting points and garnered 35 first-place votes. Michigan, previously at the top, has dropped to No. 6 after suffering back-to-back losses, including a stunning defeat to unranked Purdue.
“We have to stay humble and keep working hard. There’s a lot of basketball left to be played this season,” stated Tennessee junior forward Julian Phillips, highlighting the team’s determination despite the new ranking. Meanwhile, Kansas and Alabama are also making strong impressions, currently standing at No. 2 and No. 3, respectively, with Kansas receiving 24 first-place votes.
The shakeup in rankings has resulted in a number of shifts, with Arizona now at No. 4 and Texas rounding out the top five after impressive wins last week. The NCAA’s top 25 rankings have typically influenced tournament selections, making each week critical for teams looking to secure favorable seeding in March Madness. This remarkable season has ignited enthusiasm among fans, and the Vols are optimistic about their continued success in upcoming matchups.
