As the 2025-2026 college basketball season begins to take shape, one trend emerges across several darkhorse candidates with the potential to make an unexpected run to the 2026 Final Four: elite point guard play. Teams like Arkansas, Tennessee, and Iowa State are building their hopes around standout guards who have the ability to control games and elevate their teammates. This article will explore how each team’s point guard is not just a piece of the puzzle, but the key to unlocking the kind of success that could take them deep into the tournament.
Arkansas’ Darius Auff: A Blueprint for Success
John Calipari‘s Arkansas Razorbacks are poised to surprise in 2026, and the team’s chances rest heavily on the play of Darius Auff, a dynamic point guard who embodies everything that has made Calipari’s teams successful in the past. Auff has shown an ability to score and facilitate, and alongside DJ Wagner, a veteran guard returning for his senior year, the Razorbacks are developing one of the most dangerous backcourt duos in the nation. Auff’s leadership and ability to create for others will be essential for Arkansas as they look to build on last year’s Sweet 16 appearance.
“Auff’s ability not just to score but to make life easier on his teammates is going to be the key to Arkansas’ success,” said Calipari earlier this year. With players like Trevan Brazil, Carter Knox, and Billy Richmond providing depth and athleticism, Arkansas’ Final Four aspirations will hinge on Auff’s ability to handle the pressure in March. The Razorbacks’ success will depend on how well he can operate in high-stakes games, getting the best from players around him while managing opposing defenses.
Iowa State’s Tamin Lipy: A Veteran in the Making
Iowa State’s Tamin Lipy, a veteran point guard, is an under-the-radar star for the Cyclones, and his experience could prove to be the difference-maker as they aim for a deep March run. After a solid campaign last season, Lipy returns to lead a team that has consistent tournament aspirations under head coach TJ Otzelberger. With Iowa State returning a wealth of talent, including Milan Mchilovich and Joshua Jefferson, Lipy’s leadership will be crucial for their success in a tough Big 12 conference.
Lipy has steadily improved as one of the league’s most reliable point guards, and as Iowa State looks to build on its impressive performances in recent years, the veteran guard will be at the helm. If he can continue to manage the offense and make timely plays, Iowa State could be a formidable darkhorse in 2026.
Tennessee’s Jacobe Gillespie: A Steady Presence
Rick Barnes’ Tennessee Volunteers, after losing key perimeter players, will turn to Maryland transfer Jacobe Gillespie to fill the void at point guard. Gillespie, known for his leadership and playmaking ability, steps in to take control of the offense, a role that will be critical for Tennessee’s success. His experience playing in a high-pressure environment, including a Sweet 16 appearance last year with Maryland, makes him a reliable asset for the Volunteers as they look to make a deep run.
“Gillespie will fit in seamlessly for Zeigler and bring the stability that Tennessee needs at point guard,” said Rothstein. The Volunteers have a strong defensive presence in Felix Apara, and with Gillespie running the show, Tennessee has the potential to make a run. Adding talent like five-star freshman Nate Amen will further bolster the team’s prospects. With Gillespie anchoring the backcourt, Tennessee will be a darkhorse team to watch as the season progresses.
Expanding the Scope: Big Ten’s Darkhorse Contender
While Arkansas, UCLA, Iowa State, and Tennessee are all excellent candidates for a Final Four run, the Big Ten’s Michigan State Spartans deserve consideration as well. Under the leadership of Tom Izzo, Michigan State consistently performs well in March, and with an elite point guard like A.J. Hoggard leading the way, they could become another strong contender for the Final Four in 2026. Hoggard’s combination of vision and scoring makes him one of the top point guards in the country, and his ability to control the tempo of the game will be crucial for Michigan State’s success.
