15. Vanderbilt (26-7)
Two months ago there were legitimate claims that Vanderbilt was the best team in the SEC and after a 16-0 start it was hard to disagree. The Commodores have had some really great performances this season, even in some of their losses. It’s frankly not a surprise seeing them in this position with the work Mark Byington and company have put in but this week may have topped the recent months.
They began the SEC Tournament in the quarterfinals with a 75-68 win over Tennessee, beating the rival Volunteers for the second time in seven days. Duke Miles was the hero with a 30-point performance to advance to the semifinals. On Saturday, the Commodores really showed up and delivered an inspiring performance to knock off Florida 91-74. That wild upset included a 20-point, 8-assist game from Tyler Tanner and put them into Sunday’s title game.
The Commodores picked up seven losses after that perfect start to the season and were humbled a few times, but this team has found its footing at the right time. Since the calendar turned to March, Vanderbilt has four straight wins all away from home and are certainly helping themselves with the Selection Committee. Don’t be shocked if the Commodores put on another great performance on Sunday before finding out where they’re headed.