Updated Net rankings for Kentucky basketball and the SEC as a whole

Where do the Cats sit after another disappointing loss?

Feb 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Andrew Carr (7) celebrates after making a three-point basket during the first half against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Feb 1, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Andrew Carr (7) celebrates after making a three-point basket during the first half against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

At No. 19, Kentucky is firmly within the NCAA Tournament field, but their 4-4 SEC record and inconsistency against unranked teams make them one of the most unpredictable squads in the country. Their big wins over Duke, Tennessee, and Florida show their ceiling, but losses to Georgia and Arkansas raise concerns.

Can they make a deep run? If they play like they did against top-10 teams, absolutely. But if they continue their up-and-down play, their tournament journey could end earlier than expected.

SEC Teams in the Top 50 NET Rankings

The SEC has been one of the strongest conferences in the country, with nine teams in the top 50 of the NET rankings. Here’s where they all stand:

SEC Teams in the Top 25

  1. Auburn (#1) – The Tigers have dominated, sitting at 20-1 and undefeated in SEC play.
  2. Tennessee (#4) – A balanced squad that has the potential for a deep March run.
  3. Florida (#5) – One of the biggest surprises of the season, sitting at 18-3.
  4. Alabama (#6) – A high-powered offense has the Crimson Tide looking dangerous.
  5. Texas A&M (#14) – The Aggies have quietly put together an impressive season.
  6. Kentucky (#19) – Inconsistent but capable of beating anyone on any given night.
  7. Missouri (#21) – A 17-4 record has the Tigers in a strong position heading into February.
  8. Ole Miss (#23) – Another SEC team proving their worth, despite some tough losses.
  9. Mississippi State (#31) – The Bulldogs are a tournament-caliber team when at their best.

Other SEC Teams in the Top 50

  1. Texas (#25) – The Longhorns have been streaky but remain in the tournament hunt.
  2. Georgia (#34) – Despite their 3-6 SEC record, their overall résumé keeps them in the mix.
  3. Vanderbilt (#44) – A solid season, but they need to avoid bad losses to stay in the tournament picture.
  4. Arkansas (#47) – A 2-6 SEC record has the Razorbacks in danger of missing March Madness.

Final Takeaway

The SEC is loaded with tournament contenders, but Auburn, Tennessee, Florida, and Alabama look like the top threats for deep runs. Kentucky remains an enigma—capable of beating the best, yet struggling to handle lesser teams.

With just a few weeks left in the regular season, the Wildcats have time to solidify their résumé. But can they find the consistency they need to live up to their potential? Time will tell.