SEC Basketball: 2021 conference tournament preview and predictions

First Round Predictions

#13 Texas A&M Aggies vs. #12 Vanderbilt Commodores

Despite coming off of a program pause to end the season, the Aggies have managed to come out playing better than they were entering the interruption. Their opponent in this matchup has been reeling with injuries and an inconsistent rotation on a night-to-night basis. You never know what you’re going to get from Vanderbilt and with Buzz Williams team looking more poised the Aggies have my backing in the initial matchup of the tournament.

Prediction: Texas A&M Aggies

Second Round Predictions

#11 South Carolina Gamecocks vs. #6 Ole Miss Rebels

In the only meeting between these two programs during the regular season, the Rebels and Gamecocks played to what can only be described as a ‘sloppy’ performance. A combined 38 turnovers are unlikely to happen again in this meeting, but rather the presence of the Rebels defense should again force South Carolina into another difficult position on their way to a loss.

Prediction: Ole Miss Rebels

#10 Georgia Bulldogs vs. #7 Missouri Tigers

After their strong start to the season, Missouri has not been able to carry its fortunes through the entirety of the year. Losing 5 of their last 7 games, the Tigers have experienced difficulty with a range of opponents including Georgia. The Bulldogs pushed the pace and can quickly pile on the points. They don’t play exceptional defense, but the Bulldogs find ways to create points off of pressure. While the Tigers have not played consistently well to end the season, the Bulldogs are the prime opponent to gain a win by running up the score.

Prediction: Missouri Tigers

#9 Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. #8 Kentucky Wildcats

The Wildcats are playing their best basketball of the season and at the right time. Taking both Florida and Arkansas down to the wire are very positive signs for Calipari’s group. In their only meeting this season, the Bulldogs led the majority of the game before losing in double-overtime to the Wildcats. While there is plenty of reason to expect this game to be close again, Kentucky seems to be on the right track to win a game and live another day.

Prediction: Kentucky Wildcats

#13 Texas A&M Aggies vs. #5 Florida Gators

While the recent play of Texas A&M would suggest this matchup may play out closer than rankings should suggest, Florida has the capability to put up points. Although the Gators recently struggled to find their legs out of their own COVID pause, they have managed to stay competitive against a much tougher schedule of opponents than the Aggies have faced. Texas A&M plays solid defense and can force teams into difficult shooting nights, but often find it hard to pile on points of their own. Even with some inadequacies, Florida should pull this one out.

Prediction: Florida Gators