| Alabama | Alabama’s journey to the Final 4 last season was fueled by Mark Sears, Latrell Wrightsell, and Grant Nelson, who all return. Sears might face shooting regression this year (because he was so elite last year), but the additions of Clifford Omoruyi, Chris Youngblood, and Houston Mallette bring depth and talent to offset it. Alabama remains a force to reckon with, ranking #1 in our model. |
| Arkansas | Calipari’s rebuilding efforts at Arkansas center around cornerstones Jonas Aidoo and Johnell Davis. His ability to attract top-tier talent ensures Arkansas remains a formidable contender in college basketball. |
| Auburn | Auburn’s strength lies with Johni Broome, the number one ranked statistical player returning, and Coach Pearl. With Chad Baker-Mazara stepping into a more prominent role than that as just an elite three and D player. Auburn remains a top 10 contender. |
| Florida | Florida’s strength is in their perimeter game with Walter Clayton and Will Richard. The team boasts versatility and depth, aiming to compete at the highest level this year. |
| Georgia | Tyrin Lawrence is a significant addition as Mike White raises the team’s performance from where Tom Crean left off. |
| Kentucky | Kentucky, under Pope, represents a modern approach to the game. The team’s talent and depth are impressive. Andrew Carr is the most likely to emerge as a top player, with Jaxson Robinson providing an advantage due to his previous experience with Pope at BYU. |
| LSU | LSU is still finding its footing under Matt McMahon. Returning Jalen Cook should help, but this year’s roster is less impressive than it has been the previous two seasons under McMahon particularly in the post. |
| Miss State | Losing T. Smith is a setback for Mississippi State, but they have talent and continuity to build on. Josh Hubbard, their top returning player, offers hope for the team’s prospects. |
| Missouri | After a disastrous season, Missouri looks to recover with the addition of Tony Perkins and Mark Mitchell. |
| Oklahoma | The NIL situation for Porter Moser is unclear, and the roster is underwhelming. Jalon Moore projects as the best player. |
| Ole Miss | Ole Miss’ offseason acquisitions bring talent and depth. With Coach Chris Beard and the addition of Dre Davis, the team has potential, though there are concerns about their defense. |
| South Carolina | Last year was an overachievement, and they now have to replace much of their roster. They do return one of the best players in the league, Collin Murray-Boyles. |
| Tennessee | Tennessee’s roster features returning players and promising additions, with Zakai Zeigler leading at PG. While replacing lost talent is a challenge, Tennessee’s depth and defensive prowess offer stability. Chaz Lanier adds intrigue to Tennessee’s prospects. |
| Texas | Texas has talent, but coaching is a question mark. Kadin Shedrick’s impact depends on his utilization. No coach as played Shedrick as much as his impact has warranted statistically. Despite uncertainties, Texas has the talent and depth to compete, though guard play is a concern. |
| Texas A&M | Texas A&M aims to rebound from underperformance last season, leveraging top players like Wade Taylor and added depth. Optimizing player roles and minimizing rotations will be key for success. I think as deep as Buzz Williams goes limits the ceiling. |
| Vanderbilt | Vanderbilt’s rapid rebuild under Mark Byington is impressive. A.J. Hoggard and Jason Edwards form a strong backcourt duo. With a deep team led by one of the best point guards, Vanderbilt is set for success. Stealing Tom Izzo’s best player and senior PG at Vanderbilt is eye opening for where college basketball is today. |
