December 15, 2025
College Basketball
College Basketball News
In men's college basketball, the top of the rankings saw continued dominance from Michigan and Arizona, who both remain undefeated after decisive victories. Michigan defeated Maryland 101 - 83, while Arizona secured a 96 - 75 win against Alabama. The two powerhouses are solidifying their positions as the teams to beat, with Michigan currently favored to win the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
In a historic turn of events, Nebraska improved to 11 - 0 for the first time in program history with a thrilling 83 - 80 upset over No. 13 Illinois. The game was decided by a last-second three-pointer from Jamarques Lawrence, making Nebraska's first victory over a ranked opponent this season.
Kansas also experienced a dramatic overtime win against NC State, 77 - 76, thanks to a career-high 36 points from Melvin Council Jr. The victory was particularly significant as star freshman Darryn Peterson, a projected top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, was sidelined with a reaggravated hamstring injury.
In other notable news, Kentucky showed signs of a turnaround with a much-needed 72 - 60 victory over Indiana, their first against a high-major opponent this season. Additionally, it was reported that Michigan State's veteran coach, Tom Izzo, has become the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten conference.
Scholastic News
On the high school circuit, the latest Los Angeles Times Top 25 rankings were released, with Sierra Canyon, Santa Margarita, and St. John Bosco holding the top three spots. These elite programs are gearing up for major holiday tournaments, with Santa Margarita heading to the prestigious Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas.
The annual National High School Hoops Festival in Maryland is currently underway, showcasing some of the nation's top talent. This year's event is headlined by a matchup between two of the top five seniors in the country, Caleb Holt and Jordan Smith, continuing the festival's tradition of featuring future college and NBA stars.
Individually, Amare Larane of Knight High School is making waves after a recent position change to point guard. He is now averaging over 26 points per game, demonstrating a significant impact on his team's performance.
-Sources: Parrish, G (2025, December 15). Toop 25 And 1: Small margin separates No. 1 Michigan, No. 2 Arizona. CBS Sports. https://www.cbssports.com/college-baketball/news/college-basketball-rankings-top-25-and-1-michigan-arizona/
Salerno, C, Boone, K., & Cobb, D. (2025, December 15). College basketball winners and losers: Melvin Council rescues Kansas, Kentucky turns it on late vs. Indiana. CBS Sports. https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-winner-losers-kansas-nebraska-louisville-michigan-state-kentucky-indiana-ucla-gonzaga/
The Athletic. (2025, December 15). Men's College Basketball News. https://wwww.nytimes.com/athletic/college-basketball/
Sondheimer, E. (2025, December 14). The Times' top 25 high school basketball rankings. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/sports/highschool/story/2025-12-14/los-angeles-times-tip-25-boys-basketball-rankings-week-4
ScoutHoops.com. (2025, December 15). National HS Hoops Festival: Battle of top-five seniors Caleb Holt and Jordan Smith headlines loaded event. 247Sports. https://247sports.com/college/west-virginia/article/national-hs-hoops-festival-caleb-holt-jordan-smith-jr-jr-mitchell-qayden-samuels-miles-sadler-trey-beamer-junior-county-basketball-recruiting-266444795/
Daily News. (2025, December 14). Amare Larane is powering Knight High after position change. https://www.dailynews.com/2025/12/14/amare-larane-is-powering-knight-high-after-position-change