Leading the Big Ten contingent is Purdue, the reigning conference champion, securing the fourth spot in the rankings. Purdue is set to build upon last season’s success with the return of key players, notably Zach Edey, the reigning national player of the year.

Michigan State closely trails Purdue at sixth place in The Athletic’s rankings. Despite the departure of Joey Hauser, Michigan State is poised for a strong showing, boasting the return of players like Tyson Walker, AJ Hoggard, Malik Hall, and Jaden Akins, along with the addition of a promising recruiting class.

Occupying the 14th spot in the rankings is Illinois. Despite the loss of Matthew Mayer and Jayden Epps, the Fighting Illini are expected to remain competitive under the leadership of Brad Underwood, capitalizing on the talents of core players like Terrence Shannon Jr., Dain Dainja, and Coleman Hawkins.

Wisconsin is the fourth Big Ten team featured in The Athletic’s rankings, securing the 15th position. After missing the previous year’s NCAA tournament, Wisconsin aims for a strong comeback with returning players including Tyler Wahl, Chucky Hepburn, and Connor Essegian, alongside the addition of AJ Storr from St. John’s.

Topping The Athletic’s preseason rankings is Kansas, claiming the number one spot. Of note, Kansas will face Indiana as a non-conference opponent on December 16th at Assembly Hall. UConn, Indiana’s Empire Classic opponent, secures the seventh spot, riding high as the reigning national champions. Furthermore, Texas, a potential opponent in the Empire Classic, is placed at No. 24.

A highly anticipated matchup awaits between Auburn and Indiana on December 9th in Atlanta at the State Farm Center, with Auburn taking the 23rd spot in the rankings.

The rankings suggest that Indiana may encounter four teams from the preseason top 25 during their non-conference play.

Mark your calendars, as the 2023-24 college basketball season tips off on November 7th, signaling the start of an exciting journey for fans and teams alike.