College basketball: Big 10 power rankings as of January 21, 2026

The Big Ten continues to be one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball, with several teams vying for both conference supremacy and NCAA tournament positioning. As of January 21, 2026, Nebraska has risen to the top with an undefeated conference record, while traditional powers like Purdue, Michigan, and Illinois remain in contention. These power rankings reflect both recent results and the balance of talent, highlighting which teams are peaking at the right time and which still have work to do.

1. Nebraska Cornhuskers (7‑0 Big Ten)

Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Cale Jacobsen (31), guard Jamarques Lawrence (10) and forward Berke Buyuktuncel (9) react after a dunk by forward Pryce Sandfort (21) during the second half against the Washington Huskies at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images

Nebraska sits atop the Big Ten for the first time this season, remaining the only undefeated team in conference play as of Jan. 21. The Cornhuskers have combined coaching acumen from Fred Hoiberg with balanced scoring from Pryce Sandfort, Rienk Mast, and Sam Hoiberg to create a disciplined, efficient unit that thrives on both ends. Their defense stands out nationally for limiting high‑percentage looks at the basket and holding teams to poor three‑point shooting percentages. The schedule will only intensify, but Nebraska’s early success has reshaped expectations in Lincoln.

2. Purdue Boilermakers (7‑1 Big Ten)

Purdue drops slightly following its recent loss on the road (to UCLA), but remains among the conference’s elite with a 7‑1 mark. Coach Matt Painter continues to maximize his roster, blending veteran leadership with versatile scoring from Fletcher Loyer and supporting big man Oscar Cluff. Even with the blemish on their ledger, the Boilermakers are well‑positioned for another deep league run because of their defensive identity and ability to win tight games. They remain a team that opponents must prepare intensely for night in and night out.

3. Michigan Wolverines (7‑1 Big Ten)

With a 17‑1 overall record, the Wolverines are still among the conference’s most consistent teams, though their recent performances have lacked the dominance seen earlier in the season. Michigan’s offensive execution has fluctuated, and spotty outings—like an underwhelming win and a home loss to a middling Wisconsin squad—have raised questions about their ceiling. Still, they have the talent to beat any Big Ten opponent and continue to leverage a strong blend of scoring and disciplined defense. How they respond in upcoming tough road games will be key to their NCAA tournament positioning.

4. Illinois Fighting Illini (6‑1 Big Ten)

Illinois has ridden a seven‑game winning streak to secure its place in the upper tier of the Big Ten, showcasing one of the nation’s most potent offenses complemented by steady defensive play. The Illini have shown resilience on the road and depth in scoring, though injury to veteran guard Kylan Boswell poses a short‑term challenge. Their upcoming stretch includes critical tests at top conference rivals, which will define their standing in the league race. Balance and depth will be crucial for Illinois to maintain momentum into the postseason.

5. Michigan State Spartans (7‑1 Big Ten)

Michigan State rounds out the top five, continuing to win in classic Tom Izzo fashion—through gritty defense and timely scoring. Opponents have struggled to reach 67 points against the Spartans in recent games, a testament to their intensity and execution on that end. While they haven’t yet faced the absolute top tier of the conference slate, MSU’s ability to take care of expected wins bodes well for their positioning. The schedule ahead will demand consistency, but this team’s mental toughness is a strong foundation.

6. Wisconsin Badgers (5‑2 Big Ten)

Wisconsin enters the middle of the pack with a solid record, showing steady improvement from early season inconsistencies. Their emphasis on methodical offense and stout rebounding has kept games competitive, and a late surge in several outings highlights their ability to tighten up at key moments. They aren’t yet consistent enough to be considered among the elite, but their disciplined approach makes them a tough out for mid‑tier opponents.

7. Ohio State Buckeyes (5‑3 Big Ten)

Ohio State’s blend of veteran leadership and athleticism has produced a respectable conference record and some notable wins. The Buckeyes have shown the ability to stretch the floor and pressure defensively, but their performance fluctuates from game to game. If they can clean up defensive lapses and sharpen half‑court execution, they could make a push toward the upper half of the standings.

8. UCLA Bruins (5‑3 Big Ten)

Despite being a non‑traditional Big Ten member, UCLA has settled into conference play with competitive results. The Bruins’ experience and scoring versatility have enabled them to mix it up with quality opponents, including an upset of Purdue. They have the offensive firepower to make a statement on any given night, but consistency and defensive discipline will determine how high they can climb.

9. Iowa Hawkeyes (4‑4 Big Ten)

Iowa’s .500 record in league play reflects a team capable of big scoring nights but prone to defensive lapses. When Iowa’s shooters are hot, they can overwhelm opponents; when they aren’t, close games swing against them. Their position near the middle of the pack is appropriate, and if they can tighten up their defensive intensity, they could climb toward bubble territory.

10. USC Trojans (3‑4 Big Ten)

USC has been competitive in many conference games, showing flashes of offensive balance and defensive effort. Their profile is that of a squad capable of stealing wins on home floors, but they have struggled to consistently close out against the Top‑10 tier teams. Continued development from underclassmen and improved consistency will be necessary if USC hopes to ascend the rankings.

Conclusion

As the Big Ten season enters its crucial stretch, every game carries major implications for seeding and postseason hopes. Nebraska’s emergence at the top has reshaped expectations, but the depth and competitiveness of the conference mean that rankings could shift quickly. Fans can expect intense matchups in the weeks ahead, with several teams capable of making strong runs both in the league and beyond.

The post College basketball: Big 10 power rankings as of January 21, 2026 appeared first on The Big Lead.

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