
ACC Predictions for 2025-26: Overview and Expected Rankings
An insightful look into the expected performances of ACC teams for the upcoming basketball season, highlighting main contenders and standout players.
Four teams (Duke, North Carolina, Clemson, and Louisville) made it to the 2025 NCAA Tournament. The ACC is expected to showcase significant talent this season due to recent coaching changes and the influx of talented transfers.
The Blue Devils are the frontrunners after reaching the Final Four last season and recruiting new talent, including Cameron Boozer, the son of NBA legend Carlos Boozer, who is poised for a stellar season. Meanwhile, Louisville’s new coach Pat Kelsey has revitalized the program, leading to a potential championship run.
In North Carolina, coach Hubert Davis faces pressure after last season’s disappointments while NC State, now under Will Wade, could surprise many with their strong transfers.
CBS Sports ACC Preseason Player of the Year
Cameron Boozer | F | Duke
Boozer has the potential to be a top prospect in this year’s NBA Draft, showcasing exceptional skills in high school that rival top talents.
Additional Players to Watch
- Darrion Williams | F | NC State: The Texas Tech transfer is expected to dominate.
- Markus Burton | G | Notre Dame: A leading scorer from last season, he’s set to have a breakout year.
- Isaiah Evans | F | Duke: Expected to take a more significant role this season as a top NBA prospect.
Projected Standings:
- Duke
- Louisville
- North Carolina
- NC State
- Virginia
- SMU
- Wake Forest
- Clemson
- Syracuse
- Notre Dame
- Miami
- Virginia Tech
- Pitt
- Georgia Tech
- California
- Stanford
- Florida State
- Boston College