Everything you read below is subject to change, a disclaimer we feel we must give. Not because we don't believe in our projections, but because there's probably a judge somewhere in America making a ruling that could change all of these rosters. This isn't a feeling reserved for the Big 12. Both the SEC and the Big Ten, with whom we did this exercise weeks ago, have faced this. Both are attempting to create their own governance around eligibility rules after the NCAA has lost a number of lawsuits. We just don't know what will happen. Still, we think we have a solid enough assessment of things to project the floors and ceilings for the Big 12.

Bill Self has another potential No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Maybe the outcome for Kansas will be different this season than last. Arizona looks like a powerhouse again, though we also shouldn't ignore what the Wildcats lost in the offseason. You could say the same about Houston and Iowa State, which both lost key veterans, too. Amid all this, the Big 12 is looking for a chance to be one of the best leagues in America again. Can it do so in one of the most uncertain seasons in recent memory?

Arizona's staff has been abuzz about five-star prospect Caleb Holt, who has the makings of an elite two-way guard and could be a top-five draft pick next summer. He's the latest rising star for the Wildcats, who have produced three first-round picks in the past two years. In five seasons, Tommy Lloyd has averaged 29.6 wins per year. Chances are the Wildcats will be great again.

Kansas's Bill Self announced his return at the end of last season, but only after he'd had conversations with his family about his future. His answer after this upcoming campaign likely depends on five-star recruit Tyran Stokes, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2027 NBA draft. Texas Tech's JT Toppin, who tore an ACL in February, is expected to return sometime this season, impacting their ceiling.