In a highly unpredictable landscape for college basketball, CBS Sports has released its Version 1.0 of the 2024-25 preseason Top 25 And 1 rankings. The rankings project the Houston Cougars to start at the number one spot, while two-time reigning national champion UConn Huskies enter the list in the top 10.

Houston's top ranking is based on the expectation that head coach Kelvin Sampson will retain his core players, including his top four scorers, from a team that dominated the Big 12 and secured a No. 1 seed in the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Although talented guard Jamal Shead's draft prospects remain uncertain, returning to Houston with lucrative NIL packages appears to be a wise financial decision for the All-American player.

Meanwhile, due to significant uncertainties, Version 1.0 of the Top 25 And 1 omits both the Kentucky Wildcats, Calipari's former school, and the Arkansas Razorbacks, his current school. With coaching changes and roster overhauls in progress, the rankings find it challenging to include these teams at this stage.

Despite projected losses of their top four scorers, except for Alex Karaban, the UConn Huskies earn a commendable No. 6 spot in the rankings. Coach Dan Hurley's program, backed by their impressive back-to-back national championships, receives the benefit of the doubt for their ability to rebuild through the transfer portal. As UConn continues to add key pieces during the offseason, they are anticipated to climb the rankings and position themselves for a potential three-peat in November.

It is important to emphasize the fluidity of these rankings, as the college basketball landscape is constantly evolving, with the transfer portal playing a significant role in shaping the competitiveness of teams. As the season approaches, fans can expect changes and adjustments to the Top 25 And 1 rankings.

The 2024-25 college basketball season promises to be a thrilling one, with Houston taking the early lead and UConn aiming for a historic three-peat. Only time will tell which teams ultimately emerge as the true contenders when the season tips off.