UCLA Bruins left off ESPN's early Top-25 college basketball rankings

ESPN's Jeff Borzello has excluded the UCLA Bruins from his early Top-25 men's college basketball rankings released on June 5, 2026. After two consecutive Round of 32 exits in the NCAA Tournament, the Bruins face challenges in recruiting, especially after Tounde Yessoufou chose St. John's. The departures of seniors Donovan Dent and Tyler Bilodeau further complicate the roster situation. Borzello ranks UCLA among the 'Next five' teams, signaling subdued expectations as the offseason progresses. In contrast, five Big Ten teams, including the defending champion Michigan Wolverines at No. 3, made the cut, highlighting a notable trend in recruiting and investment from rival programs.

• 1:49 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN leaves the UCLA Bruins off of their early Top-25 rankings