For nearly a century, the Associated Press has been at the forefront of shaping college basketball narratives. Its weekly rankings have not only captured the essence of the sport but have also sparked countless discussions among fans and analysts.

Unraveling the Mysteries of College Basketball Rankings

AP's Impact on College Basketball Season

For nearly 75 years, the Associated Press has played a pivotal role in igniting intriguing storylines throughout the men's college basketball season. These weekly rankings serve as a compass, guiding fans and experts alike through the ebb and flow of the game. Though they hold no direct sway over the postseason, they have become an integral part of the college basketball landscape, creating high-profile matchups and fueling fan discourse.During the months leading up to the NCAA Tournament, the AP Top 25 poll takes center stage. It's a time when teams vie for a top spot, and every ranking matters. The past 20 national champions were each ranked in the top 12 in their respective season's Week 6 AP poll, highlighting the poll's significance in predicting championship contenders.

The Evolution of Computer Rankings

As college basketball has expanded and technology has advanced, computer rankings have emerged as powerful tools. Websites like KenPom, Bart Torvik, Haslametrics, and EvanMiya have developed their own intricate algorithms and unique formulas to rank not only the top 25 teams but all 364 Division-I programs on a daily basis.The NCAA even has its own ranking system called the NET, which is used by the Tournament selection committee. These computer rankings have come a long way and are now widely accepted in college basketball circles. They provide an alternative perspective and add depth to the ranking process.

Head-to-Head Records and Their Significance

Head-to-head records play a crucial role in the AP poll, but they are not the be-all and end-all. In the case of Kentucky and Duke, for example, Kentucky dropped one spot despite defeating Duke in an overtime thriller. This shows that while head-to-head results matter, other factors are also considered.Computer rankings, on the other hand, seem to disregard head-to-head at times. Websites like KenPom, Torvik, and the NET use different formulas and advanced metrics to create a hierarchy. This can lead to differences in rankings between human polls and computer models.

Human Bias in Rankings

Human bias continues to creep into the ranking process. No. 12 Oregon, for instance, remained in the same position despite losing to UCLA by a narrow margin. This shows how preconceived notions and biases can influence rankings.UConn, the reigning national champion, also faced criticism for their ranking. Despite losing consecutive games at the Maui Invitational, they remained in the top 25. This highlights the challenge of ranking teams based on a limited sample size and past achievements.

The Role of Social Media in Gonzaga Coverage

Continue to follow our Gonzaga coverage on social media by liking us on Facebook and following us on Instagram and Twitter. Social media has become an essential tool for fans to stay connected and engaged with their favorite teams. It allows for real-time updates and discussions, adding to the excitement of college basketball.In conclusion, college basketball rankings are a complex and fascinating aspect of the sport. They reflect the ebb and flow of the game, as well as the biases and judgments of those involved. Whether it's the AP poll or computer rankings, each provides a unique perspective and adds to the overall story of college basketball.