SEC Report Cards: Auburn,Florida Shine​ in ⁣2024-25 College Basketball Season

‌ Updated May 28,2025
‍ ‍

As the focus shifts to the 2025-26 ‍college basketball season,it’s time to assess the performance of SEC teams in the past year. The⁢ SEC earned the most “A” grades among major conferences, reflecting a season where a record 14 teams made the NCAA tournament. These SEC basketball grades consider preseason ​expectations and any unforeseen challenges teams faced.

The evaluation⁢ process balances expectations‌ with results. Teams that ⁢met or exceeded ⁢their goals receive higher marks, while those that underperformed are graded accordingly. ⁤This comprehensive review ​aims to ‍provide‍ a clear picture of ‌each⁢ team’s season.

A Grades

Alabama Crimson Tide logo

Alabama Crimson tide

Grade: A

With ⁤the ⁢return of key players‍ like ⁤Grant Nelson and Mark‍ Sears ​from​ their‍ Final Four team, alabama was a preseason favorite to win the SEC. While ‌they finished third, the Crimson Tide boasted the conference’s best offense. Sears, an All-American, propelled them to​ the Elite Eight.

Auburn Tigers logo

Auburn⁤ Tigers

Grade: A

Bruce Pearl’s Auburn team achieved a No. 1 ranking ‌and a 20-1 run. Led by Johni Broome,a⁢ Wooden Award⁤ contender,the Tigers captured the ⁤SEC championship.Their remarkable season included a ⁣program-best 32 wins, despite a ‍Final ​Four‍ loss to rival Florida.

Florida Gators ⁣logo

Florida Gators

Grade: ⁤A

Walter Clayton Jr.’s return and the addition of talent like Alijah Martin helped Florida secure ​their third ⁤national championship. Clayton, named the tournament’s most Outstanding Player, is projected as ‌a potential first-round NBA draft pick.

Kentucky Wildcats logo

Kentucky ‌Wildcats

Grade: A

There will always be a‌ “what if?” element to this season, Mark Pope’s first as ​the head coach of his alma​ mater.

What’s next

College basketball fans now look ahead to the 2025-26 season, anticipating how⁣ these SEC ​teams will build upon their ⁣successes and address their shortcomings.