Illinois, Michigan, and Michigan State positioned for 2026-27 basketball season
CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 2:42 PM
Last updated Jun 1, 2026
With the NBA Draft decisions finalized, the Big Ten teams are assessing their prospects for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Illinois leads the early rankings, projected as a top title contender following a strong 2025-26 season where they reached the Final Four. The departure of key players, particularly from Michigan and Purdue, opens the for new talent to emerge. As teams prepare for summer workouts, the rankings highlight the potential for Illinois, Michigan, and Michigan State to excel while others face more uncertainty.
- •Illinois finished the 2025-26 season with a 28-9 record.
- •The Illini's projected lineup has significant size and shooting ability.
- •Michigan's frontcourt has departed, impacting their upcoming season outlook.
- •Summer workouts will begin as teams solidify their rosters.
- 2:42 PMCBS Sports — Way-too-early Big Ten basketball tiers: Michigan, Illinois, Michigan State primed to shine in 2026-27
"An early look at each Big Ten team after the NBA Draft stay-or-go deadline and weeks of transfer portal combat
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