The Wildcats (19-3) seized the No. 1 ranking, displacing the Tar Heels (19-2) after a season-long chase that finally tipped in Northwestern's favor. North Carolina slides to second despite just two losses, a testament to how razor-thin the margin is at the summit.
The Blue Jays (17-5) authored the poll's most dramatic move, surging from No. 8 to No. 3 — a five-spot jump that signals Johns Hopkins is peaking at exactly the right time. The Buffaloes (16-4) and Seawolves (19-3) mirrored that momentum, each climbing five spots to No. 5 and No. 6 respectively, turning what looked like a settled top tier into a crowded field of contenders.
The Midshipmen (20-2) own the most wins in the poll but dropped from No. 4 to No. 7, tied with the Cardinal (17-5). Meanwhile, the Minutewomen (16-3) entered the rankings at No. 25 — the only newcomer — bringing a 16-3 record that demanded attention and proving that winning your way in still matters most.
Data via ESPN · Summarized by D1Ball's editorial engine from official statistics.
More from the newsroom