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Sport: College SportsCategory: Scores & Results

Illinois favored in Big Ten basketball preseason poll for 2026-27

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 6, 2026, 5:53 PM

Last updated Oct 6, 2026

Illinois favored in Big Ten basketball preseason poll for 2026-27
Summary

The Big Ten basketball preseason poll has been released, with Illinois topping the rankings after a Final Four run last season. They received 18 first-place votes, followed by Michigan State and Michigan. Purdue, once a favorite, is now ranked sixth as it rebuilds following key player departures. USC and Iowa are considered underrated, with predictions that USC could finish seventh and Iowa could surprise as well. The season opens on November 1, with teams looking to solidify their standings in a competitive conference.

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By the Numbers
  • •Illinois receives 18 first-place votes in the poll
  • •Michigan State follows with nine, while Michigan gets one
  • •Purdue is ranked sixth amid rebuilding
  • •USC and Iowa are viewed as underrated teams
  • •The season starts on November 1, 2026
Latest Updates
  • 5:53 PMCBS Sports — Big Ten basketball preseason poll, predictions 2026-27: Michigan, Purdue overrated; USC, Iowa underrated
What they're saying
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Illinois is the favorite to win the Big Ten after reaching the Final Four for the first time since 2005 last season

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