With conference play underway, attention is quickly turning to which undefeated teams in men’s college basketball can realistically keep their perfect records intact as the season progresses.
Several early contenders have already fallen. Michigan suffered its first loss of the season at home against Wisconsin, while Iowa State was routed by Kansas earlier in the week. Vanderbilt also dropped from the unbeaten ranks after a road loss at Texas. As a result, the list of undefeated teams has narrowed significantly.
Here’s a look at the programs still without a loss in the 2025–26 season as of January 14, along with key context surrounding their résumés and upcoming challenges.
No. 1 Arizona (17–0, Big 12)
Arizona remains the nation’s top-ranked team and has arguably the strongest résumé among the undefeated programs. The Wildcats have already defeated several ranked opponents and have navigated six Quad 1 games without a loss.
Their schedule remains demanding. Arizona has multiple top-100 NET opponents ahead, with a high-profile matchup against BYU later this month serving as a potential test of their staying power. Even so, the Wildcats have shown consistency on both ends of the floor and appear well-positioned to maintain their momentum.
No. 8 Nebraska (17–0, Big Ten)
Nebraska has quietly put together one of the most impressive undefeated starts in the country. The Cornhuskers have won four Quad 1 games, including victories over Wisconsin, Illinois and a narrow two-point win against Michigan State.
They have followed that up with conference wins against Ohio State, Indiana and Oregon, keeping them perfect in Big Ten play. Nebraska’s balance and ability to close out tight games have been key factors in its unblemished record.
Miami (Ohio) (19–0, Mid-American Conference)
Miami (Ohio) delivered its most dramatic win of the season on Saturday, escaping with a 105–102 overtime victory against Buffalo. The RedHawks are undefeated but present an unusual profile compared to other teams on this list.
They have not yet played a Quad 1 opponent and will not face a ranked team during the regular season. However, Miami is 7–0 in true road games and owns three Quad 2 victories. While three of its wins came against Division II competition, the RedHawks have consistently handled Division I opponents and sit just outside the national top 40 in NET rankings.
As conference schedules intensify, the pressure will only increase. History suggests that maintaining an undefeated record deep into the season is rare, but for now, these three programs remain perfect and firmly in the national spotlight.