Introduction
The Big 12 Conference is no stranger to intensity, and the 2024–25 men’s basketball season is delivering yet another dramatic showdown. With powerhouse programs, rising contenders, and postseason hopes on the line, the current standings reflect the brutal competitiveness that defines Big 12 basketball. As the regular season draws to a close, the battle for seeding, bragging rights, and NCAA Tournament placement is reaching its peak. big 12 standings men’s basketball
The Current Landscape
The Big 12 has once again proven to be one of the deepest and most balanced conferences in college hoops. Here’s how the top of the table looks as of mid-April 2025:
- Kansas Jayhawks – 13–3
- Houston Cougars – 12–4
- Iowa State Cyclones – 11–5
- Texas Longhorns – 10–6
- Baylor Bears – 10–6
- Kansas State Wildcats – 9–7
These top six programs are all in strong contention for NCAA Tournament spots, and all are still vying for key seeds in the Big 12 Championship.
Kansas: Still the Team to Beat
The Jayhawks are once again atop the Big 12, showing why they’re considered the standard of excellence in the conference. With veteran leadership, reliable depth, and a legendary coach in Bill Self, Kansas is eyeing both the regular season crown and a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Houston’s Emergence
In just their second Big 12 season, the Cougars have made an enormous impact. Their suffocating defense and disciplined play have kept them right on Kansas’ heels. If they win their final matchups—and Kansas stumbles—Houston could claim a share of the regular season title or even take the top seed outright.
Mid-Tier Firepower
Programs like Iowa State, Texas, and Baylor aren’t just filling out the standings—they’re all capable of making noise in both the conference tournament and March Madness.
- Iowa State thrives on defense and home-court intensity.
- Texas features one of the most talented rosters, with NBA-level players.
- Baylor is battle-tested and capable of putting up big offensive numbers on any night.
These three are locked in a tight race for the coveted top-four finish and a first-round Big 12 Tournament bye.
Kansas State: On the Fringe
The Wildcats are hanging tough in the middle of the pack. While they’ve taken some losses, their gritty style and clutch performances could catapult them into the top tier if they close strong. They’ll need a solid finish and possibly a win or two in the conference tourney to lock in their NCAA bid.
The Bottom Half: Battling for Relevance
Teams like Texas Tech, TCU, Oklahoma State, and the new additions—BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, and West Virginia—are all fighting for postseason life. For many, the Big 12 Tournament will be their last chance to impress the selection committee or pull off a miracle run.
Key Games to Watch
- Kansas vs. Houston – A heavyweight clash that could determine the regular-season champion
- Baylor vs. Iowa State – Major implications for top-four seeding
- Texas vs. Kansas State – High stakes for both seeding and NCAA hopes
Conclusion
The Big 12 men’s basketball standings reflect exactly what fans have come to expect from the conference: chaos, competitiveness, and championship-caliber talent across the board. As we move toward the conference tournament and beyond, every possession counts, every game matters, and no outcome is guaranteed.