Golfweek’s preseason rankings for 2025-26 are finally here. Topping the list is powerhouse Oklahoma State, returning to the summit as reigning national champions. Not far behind sits Virginia at number two, with Texas slotted firmly in third place. Auburn secures the fourth spot, followed by Florida and Ole Miss rounding out the top six.
These rankings set the tone for the season ahead, offering both a nod to established excellence and a preview of the battles waiting on the horizon. The mix of long-standing programs and emerging challengers promises a dynamic narrative as the season begins in earnest.
The complete Golfweek Preseason Rankings list can be found here.
The Hierarchy of Contenders
Oklahoma State’s number one ranking is more than symbolic. Their return to the top spot serves as validation of a program steeped in history and recent success. The Cowboys’ 2025 NCAA championship adds a recent trophy to a storied legacy. Virginia’s placement immediately behind them suggests a program on the cusp of breaking through; eager to translate promise into a championship run.
Texas holds steady towards the top, demonstrating continuity and depth, while Auburn and Florida’s presence in the top five is a testament to consistency and regional strength in the Southeast. Ole Miss’s ranking reflects a program hitting its stride under Coach Chris Malloy, energized after multiple titles and record-setting team performances last season.
Notable Rising Programs
LSU and Arizona State, ranked seventh and eighth respectively, prove they belong in the national conversation. Oklahoma and Illinois, positioned ninth and tenth, signal that programs outside traditional powerhouses are closing the gap.
Further down the top 30, BYU claims number 12, continuing its ascent backed by dependable leadership and fresh talent. Duke enters the season at 23 under new guidance from head coach Bob Heintz, entering a phase of rebuilding blended with optimism. Utah, making its debut at number 25, underscores how rapid growth and record-breaking seasons can propel programs into the national spotlight.
Players to Watch
Even without individual rankings included in Golfweek’s preview, several players loom large across these programs.
Oklahoma State’s national title run came with star power pulling them through, while Texas returns all five members from last year’s NCAA quarterfinal lineup: seniors Christiaan Maas, Tommy Morrison, Luke Potter, junior Jack Gilbert, and sophomore Daniel Bennett. Morrison notably withdraws early this season to compete in the Walker Cup, underscoring his elite status.
Duke’s Bryan Kim and Ethan Evans provide a potent one-two punch. Kim, an All-ACC performer, led the Blue Devils in scoring average as a junior, while Evans, ranked highly in PGA Tour University standings, enters his senior year with a scoring average within the top ranks in program history.
BYU’s foundation is bolstered by seniors Simon Kwon and Tyson Shelley, alongside junior Peter Kim and promising freshman Kihei Akina, fresh off the Utah Open title and ready to make his mark. Ole Miss turned heads with its depth and momentum last season, delivering one of its most successful years in nearly four decades with multiple team titles and individual victories.
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