Biggest upcoming tests for the six undefeated men's basketball teams - ESPN

With the calendar about to turn to 2026 and nonconference play making way for the full swing of conference schedules, we'll start to see more separation in the national pecking order of college basketball.

Teams that have built gaudy records against softer schedules will have to answer questions quickly with more difficult games coming twice a week. There are six unbeatens still remaining: Arizona, Michigan, Iowa State, Vanderbilt, Nebraska and Miami (Ohio).

Which will be the next to lose? Which will be the last remaining unbeaten? Which teams have staying power?

Let's take a look at how each got here and the biggest upcoming tests.

Record: 12-0
AP Top 25 ranking: 1

How they got here: Behind an exceptional debut from freshman Koa Peat (30 points), Arizona opened the season with a win over reigning champion Florida in Las Vegas and has racked up more quality wins since then. The Wildcats hold victories over UConn, Alabama, UCLA, Auburn and San Diego State, with only one of those coming on their home floor in Tucson. Their defeat of UConn in Storrs was one of the most impressive wins we'll see from any team this season.

Why they're unbeaten: Coach Tommy Lloyd has a tougher, more physical team than usual that could deliver the program its first Final Four since 2001. The roster is extremely well-balanced. Peat was sensational early, but his classmate Brayden Burries has been the offensive focal point of late. Jaden Bradley looks like one of the best point guards in the country as a senior, and the center duo of Motiejus Krivas and Tobe Awaka has few peers. Arizona is incredibly dominant inside but shoots nearly 38% from 3. The Wildcats are also ranked in the top five nationally in defensive efficiency.

Biggest upcoming