The Future of College Hoops: Projecting the Top 25 Programs for the Next 25 Years

In the rapidly changing world of college athletics, which basketball programs are best positioned for long-term success? A new analysis projects the top 25 programs for the next 25 years, weighing historical success alongside modern-day factors like resources, coaching, and recruiting acumen.

While perennial powerhouses like Kansas and Duke top the list—a nod to their sustained excellence and ability to adapt to the NIL era—the ranking includes several surprising teams poised to rise.

Here’s a look at some of the programs with the brightest futures:

• Louisville: The Cardinals have undergone a dramatic turnaround under coach Pat Kelsey, who has instilled a new energy and optimism in the program. His charisma and coaching ability suggest that the program’s recent losing seasons are a thing of the past.
• Alabama: Coach Nate Oats has transformed the Crimson Tide into a basketball powerhouse using a modern, analytics-driven approach. With a Final Four appearance and multiple SEC titles under his belt, Oats has cemented Alabama’s status as a top-tier program.
• Indiana: After a decade of struggles, the Hoosiers are expected to make a major comeback. The belief in new coach Darian DeVries, coupled with the program’s rich history and resources, positions Indiana to return to its elite status.
• Michigan: The hiring of Dusty May, a rising star in coaching, has the Wolverines on an upward trajectory. With a forward-thinking staff and strong resources, Michigan is primed to become a consistent top-10 program.
• Texas Tech: The Red Raiders’ recent success under multiple coaches is a sign of a strong program foundation. With excellent resources and a prominent spot in the basketball-centric Big 12, Texas Tech is set to continue its winning ways.
• BYU: This is a program to watch, as it’s making a name for itself in the new era of college athletics. BYU’s ability to recruit top-tier talent and hire rising star coach Kevin Young suggests it could become a top-10 contender in the coming decades.

The ranking also includes established programs like North Carolina, UConn, and Kentucky, all of which are expected to remain competitive despite navigating new coaching eras. Other teams to make the list include UCLA, Maryland, and Ohio State, the latter of which is noted for its immense financial resources that will likely play a major role in future recruiting.