In a relatively quiet holiday week, UCLA and Memphis emerged as the standout performers in the latest AP men's college basketball Top 25 rankings. While most top teams took the opportunity to recharge before conference play, these two squads capitalized on their weekend matchups to make significant strides in the rankings. UCLA climbed from No. 22 to No. 15 after defeating Gonzaga, while Memphis surged ahead with an impressive victory over Ole Miss. The top five remained largely unchanged, but the upcoming conference games promise to shake up the standings.
Details of UCLA and Memphis' Weekend Triumphs
In the heart of winter, the college basketball scene witnessed two pivotal victories that reshaped the AP Top 25 rankings. On Saturday, UCLA faced off against Gonzaga in Inglewood, California, delivering a thrilling 65-62 win. This victory propelled UCLA from No. 22 to No. 15, marking a significant leap in the rankings. The Bruins' defense played a crucial role, becoming the first team this season to hold Gonzaga under a point per possession (0.944). Eric Dailey Jr. was a standout performer, leading the team with 18 points and showcasing his prowess with four three-pointers.
Meanwhile, Memphis secured an 87-70 win over Ole Miss, demonstrating their offensive firepower in the second half. The Tigers, now tied for the second-most wins against top-50 teams according to ESPN’s BPI metric, have built a strong resume despite mixed metrics. PJ Haggerty and Colby Rogers shone as one of the best scoring guard duos in the country, contributing significantly to the team's success. Despite some inconsistencies, Memphis' performance has earned them a place in the rankings, reflecting their potential as contenders.
The arrival of conference play this week presents numerous opportunities for further shifts in the rankings. Key matchups include St. John’s at Creighton, Illinois at Oregon, Michigan State at Ohio State, Florida at Kentucky, and Maryland at Oregon. These games will test the mettle of several teams and could lead to significant changes in the coming weeks.
From a journalistic perspective, the performances of UCLA and Memphis highlight the unpredictable nature of college basketball. Both teams have shown that with strategic defense and timely offense, they can rise through the ranks. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how these teams continue to evolve and challenge the status quo. The upcoming conference games promise to deliver more excitement and potentially redefine the landscape of college basketball.