The SEC has always been known as the college football powerhouse, but this season, it’s also proving to be the dominant force in college basketball. While conferences like the ACC and Big East have traditionally held the spotlight in hoops, the SEC is setting the pace early in 2024, leaving other leagues scrambling to keep up.
With an outstanding 143-20 record in non-conference games, the SEC has been nearly unbeatable this season. Only South Carolina has more than two losses, and with three undefeated teams and seven others holding just one loss, the SEC’s depth and talent have been undeniable.
As the season progresses, nine SEC teams are currently ranked, including three in the top five and five in the top 10. It’s not just about wins either; the SEC has the highest number of teams ranked in the top 30 of the NET rankings, outpacing any other conference.
The SEC’s .609 win rate against “quad-one” opponents—those top-tier teams from across the nation—sets them apart from the competition. This is a clear indicator of their prowess and resilience when faced with the nation’s best.
The question on the minds of many is: How many SEC teams will make the NCAA Tournament this year? Could we see as many as 16 teams representing the SEC in March Madness? While 14 or 12 might be more realistic, the league’s strength suggests that a historic number of SEC schools could make the cut.
As conference play heats up, the battle for supremacy within the SEC will be fierce. Even South Carolina, currently ranked 68th in KenPom, can shake things up. The competition in this league is unlike any other, and teams like Kentucky are preparing for the challenge ahead.
With the SEC on a tear, this is shaping up to be a season unlike any other in college basketball. Whether you’re a fan of SEC teams or not, it’s clear that this league is on a historic run and shows no signs of slowing down.
