Beginning in 1985–86, the following rules changes were implemented: The top 20 from the AP Poll during the pre-season.

[3] NOTES: The Big South Conference was founded in 1983, but its members played as independents until this season.

Tulane discontinued its men's basketball program after the 1984–85 season in response to a point shaving scandal involving four of its players.

[32] Saint Joseph's and Temple both finished with 3–1 records in head-to-head competition among the Philadelphia Big 5.

[33] Played at Madison Square Garden in New York City