Full Breakdown
Mid-Major Teams and Players to Watch in the 2025-26 College Basketball Season
10/27/2025, 9:00:47 PM
Overview of the Mid-Major Landscape
As the 2025-26 college basketball season approaches, attention is shifting towards mid-major programs that are poised to make significant impacts. While the focus often rests on the Power Five conferences—ACC, Big East, Big 12, Big Ten, and SEC—mid-majors are expected to deliver thrilling upsets and compelling storylines throughout the season. The transfer portal has created a widening talent gap between high-majors and mid-majors, yet these smaller schools continue to produce standout players and potential NCAA Tournament heroes.
Key Players to Follow
Several players from mid-major programs are anticipated to shine this season. Graham Ike, a veteran big man from Gonzaga, boasts impressive career averages of 17.0 points and 7.8 rebounds. His partnership with Braden Huff is expected to keep Gonzaga competitive in the top 25 rankings. Another notable player is Mason Falslev from Utah State, who averaged 15.0 points and 6.3 rebounds last season, positioning him as a potential Mountain West Player of the Year.
Aidan Mahaney, who transferred from UConn to UC Santa Barbara, is also a player to watch. After struggling to find his footing at UConn, Mahaney is expected to be a key contributor for UCSB as they vie for supremacy in the Big West. Additionally, Donovan Dent, who previously played for New Mexico, is anticipated to make a significant impact at UCLA, where he joins a talented roster.
Notable Teams and Their Prospects
Several mid-major teams are projected to perform well this season. The Vermont Catamounts are expected to lead the America East, while the Memphis Tigers are favored in the American Athletic Conference. The Dayton Flyers are anticipated to be strong contenders in the Atlantic 10, alongside the St. Louis Billikens, who are expected to be top-three in their conference.
In the Missouri Valley Conference, the Belmont Bruins are seen as potential threats, while the San Diego State Aztecs are favored in the Mountain West. Other teams such as the Charleston Cougars and the Liberty Flames are also expected to make noise in their respective conferences.
Coaches on the Rise
The coaching landscape in mid-major basketball is also noteworthy. Coaches like Tony Skinn at George Mason and Pat Kelsey at Louisville are being watched for their potential to move to high-major programs if they achieve success this season. Skinn has already led GMU to a strong position in the Atlantic 10, while Kelsey’s recruitment efforts at Louisville have garnered attention.
Conclusion: The Importance of Mid-Majors
The 2025-26 season promises to be an exciting one for mid-major basketball, with numerous players and teams ready to challenge the status quo. As the season unfolds, these programs will not only aim for conference titles but also seek to disrupt the narratives dominated by high-major schools. The mid-majors are set to deliver unforgettable moments, showcasing the depth and talent present across college basketball.
