SWAC Basketball: Alabama State slides down the rankings as Bethune-Cookman continues to rise closer to the top
6. Jackson State SWAC: 6-5 (Last Week: 10) (Last Weekend's Record: 2-0) (Upcoming Games: 2/17: vs FAMU 2/19 vs BCU)
The Tigers had a much-needed, very successful weekend. JSU picked up 2 straight wins after losing 4 in a row. The Tigers have had the worst injury luck this season and it continued this weekend losing star guard Chase Adams. JSU battled through adversity on Saturday and got a much-needed win over MVSU. Jordan O'Neal led the way with 18 points. The Tigers played their best game in a while defeating UAPB only committing 6 turnovers. O'Neal had another solid game with 17 points. The Tigers jumped 4 spots in the rankings which is a credit to this team for being able to survive the rough times. This is a talented team even with all the bad luck. They will be a tough first-round draw for someone. I can see them getting hot in March and making a run.
5. Alcorn State SWAC: 6-5 (Last Week: 9) (Last Weekend's Record: 2-0) (Upcoming Games: 2/17: vs BCU 2/19 vs FAMU)
The Braves rebounded from two tough losses to pick up two road wins. ASU made a four-spot jump in the rankings. Alcorn played a solid game against UAPB, they built an early lead and never let it go. Jeremiah Kendall had his way inside with 16 points. After a close first half on Monday, the Braves shut down MVSU holding them to 22 second-half points. Kendall led the way with 20 points. The Braves have a huge Saturday game at home against BCU. This is a great opportunity to gain some traction in the SWAC standings as well as my rankings. Even sitting in a three-way tie for 5th place the Braves have a great chance to finish with a top seed. Do not count this team out.
4. Texas Southern SWAC: 7-4 (Last Week: 3) (Last Weekend's Record: 1-1) (Upcoming Games: 2/17: vs GSU 2/19 vs SU)
The Tigers began their road trip in third place and finished tied for third place. All in all that's a productive trip. Also, only a one-spot drop in the power rankings doesn't hurt. Both games were close, in an overtime win over FAMU Zytarious Mortle led the way with 26 points. Monday's game was the biggest of the day, TSU would lose to BCU by 4. PJ Henry scored 17 points but it wasn't enough to get the win. The Tigers continue their path to the tournament, as the defending tournament champions they know March is the most important month. Please do not overlook this team come tourney time.