December 19, 1961 AP Poll
| Rank | Team |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State |
| 2 | Cincinnati |
| 3 | Providence |
| 4 | Kansas State |
| 5 | West Virginia |
| 6 | USC |
| 7 | Duquesne |
| 8 | Purdue |
| 9 | St. Bonaventure |
| 10 | Arizona State |
| 10 | Seattle |