NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 10 matchups for 2022 Big 12 vs SEC Challenge
By Andrew Tineo
Ever since its inception in 2013-2014, the Big 12-SEC Challenge has become one of the best in NCAA Basketball. With blueblood programs colliding, alongside some of the best basketball in the country.
The Big 12 won the first three challenges, with relative ease with two 7-3 head-to-head victories. Since 2016-2017, the SEC has made the series much more competitive. The Southeastern Conference has two series wins, alongside two ties and one loss. The most recent series is a 5-4 victory in favor of the SEC.
The 2021-2022 Big 12-SEC Challenge was announced on Wednesday and the slate does not disappoint.
This is the ranking of the most intriguing matchups and what to expect from each game. From some of the best coaching matchups to rosters that bring back a lot of talent. All the way to a few homecomings for some programs and a coach that returns to his old stomping grounds.
10. Kansas State at Ole Miss
Can Ole Miss get over the hump?
The Rebels’ lack of success within the challenge has been well-documented. They are the lone team winless from both conferences, with an 0-6 record. Two of those losses have come to the hands of Kansas State.
Hope and optimism are coming to the Rebels, however, thanks to Ole Miss inking a Top 50 prospect in Daeshun Ruffin. The Rebels brought in an intriguing player in Duke’s Jaemyn Brakefield.
Outside of those two, no one else they brought in is someone that can control the game and create their own shot.
Devontae Shuler leaving is a massive loss, as he was the best player on both ends of the floor last year. Romello White also announced he wouldn’t return, leaving a massive void for minutes and scoring opportunities for this team. Ole Miss exceeded expectations a year ago, by finishing sixth in the SEC. I don’t believe the Rebels will have that same kind of success.
Although the Wildcats season overall was one to forget, the back half of the season was a bright spot. The Wildcats won four of their last six games, with the lone losses coming to West Virginia and Baylor.
Kansas State has a fantastic young core, led by Nigel Pack and Davion Bradford. Two players that could blossom into All-Big 12 caliber guys within the next few seasons.
The Wildcats were able to land Mark Smith from Missouri, who should help Pack and Miguel. Potentially could become a starter, if the Wildcats decide to play small.
Overall, this matchup is intriguing for both fanbases. Outside of that, not a ton of momentum is heading into this. The young battle of Ruffin vs. Pack is the best matchup on the floor and both teams run contrasting styles. Ole Miss plays small, while Kansas State has length up and down the lineup.