Men’s college basketball’s national player of the year race looks as competitive as ever entering the 2026–27 season. With more and more elite players electing to cash in on the NIL market explosion rather than turn pro, the pool of returning stars looks incredibly strong. Add in elite freshmen (Cooper Flagg and Cameron Boozer claimed NPOY honors the last two years), and you get a fascinating race for the top spot.
Who looks best positioned for this year’s award with the season about to begin? Here’s a look at the top contenders, grouped into three All-American teams.
