March is right around the corner! As we move into the final stretch of the regular season, it’s important to understand where each team stands on a national scale. As they begin to fight for seeding and acceptance into the field of 68, let’s take a look at where SEC basketball’s contending teams rank.
Where do SEC basketball teams stand in NCAA Tournament Bracketology?
Championship Contenders: Alabama, Tennessee
These two teams represent the elite tier of the SEC, and both have the talent and coaching to make runs at the Championship. Tennessee, who rank first nationally in opponent PPG, will be in contention against anyone because of how well they defend and their experience. On the contrary, Alabama can explode for 100 points on any given night. Pick your poison, but these contrasting styles of success both give these squads the chance at a national title.
Great, not Elite: Auburn, Kentucky, Missouri
Auburn has struggled to find consistency and a go-to scorer, but their athleticism and energy find them in battles nearly every contest. Their experience will be huge to their intended March success. Meanwhile, after losing to South Carolina, plenty forgot about Kentucky. Now, they’ve won six of seven with one loss coming against Kansas. Coach Calipari has his group playing his brand of ball again. Last but certainly not least, the Missouri Tigers have shown remarkable consistency this season. Their high-scoring guards and intensity give them the ability to knock off a one or two seed.
Work To Do: Florida, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Mississippi State
These teams determine their own destiny as we enter the final month of conference play. Each of these four teams have proven this year that they can knock off elite teams and earn marquee wins. They will all be looking to add to their résumé against the aforementioned top tier teams, with all four of these teams seemingly on the NCAA Tournament bubble. Sadly, these teams will more than likely be competing against each other for the final tournament spots. The teams who make the most of their opportunities will be dancing on March 12th.