For the first time since 2011, Georgia men’s basketball was included in the AP top 25.

The Georgia Bulldogs men’s basketball team has experienced many highs and lows over the past few decades. From competitive years to rebuilding phases, the program has struggled to maintain a consistent level of success. However, the news that Georgia’s men’s basketball team was included in the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 rankings for the first time since 2011 marked a significant milestone in the program’s history. This achievement signaled the dawning of a new era, one that was defined by solid coaching, improved recruiting, player development, and overall team chemistry. After over a decade of rebuilding and retooling, the Bulldogs have successfully reestablished themselves as a national contender in men’s college basketball.

A Historic Return to the AP Top 25

For Georgia basketball fans, the appearance in the AP Top 25 rankings was a long-awaited event. In the early 2000s, the Georgia Bulldogs were considered one of the more competitive programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under the leadership of head coach Dennis Felton, the Bulldogs reached the NCAA tournament multiple times. The program’s success peaked in the 2000-2001 season when Georgia made it to the Sweet Sixteen. However, after a period of stagnation and coaching changes, the Bulldogs fell out of the national spotlight.

The 2010-2011 season was the last time Georgia’s basketball team appeared in the AP Top 25. That year, they were led by Mark Fox, who had taken over the program in 2009. Although Fox led Georgia to a respectable 21-win season and an appearance in the NIT (National Invitation Tournament), the Bulldogs never quite reached the level of sustained success that fans and analysts had hoped for. Following a few underwhelming years, Fox was replaced by Tom Crean in 2018, and that marked the beginning of a new chapter for Georgia men’s basketball.

However, it wasn’t until the 2023-2024 season that Georgia once again found itself among the best programs in the nation. This achievement was not only a testament to the hard work put in by the players and coaches but also a sign of the direction the program was headed under the guidance of Mike White, who took over the program in 2022. White’s leadership and strategic approach helped transform Georgia basketball from a program mired in mediocrity into one that was ranked among the best in the country.

Coach Mike White: The Architect of Georgia’s Resurgence

The turnaround in Georgia’s basketball fortunes can largely be attributed to the hiring of Mike White as head coach. White, who previously coached at the University of Florida, was known for his ability to build competitive teams and develop talent. Under White, Florida consistently made the NCAA tournament, and his reputation as a recruiter and team builder made him an attractive hire for Georgia.

From the moment White arrived in Athens, Georgia, it was clear that his approach would be different from the previous regime. He emphasized defensive discipline, efficient offensive sets, and an overall team-first mentality. White’s first season in charge was largely a rebuilding year as he worked to instill his philosophy and culture in the team. Despite a relatively modest record, the team showed flashes of potential, and fans began to see the foundation for something special.

The 2023-2024 season, however, was a breakout year for White and the Bulldogs. The team displayed impressive depth, defensive tenacity, and a balanced offensive attack. Players began to thrive in White’s system, and the Bulldogs quickly became one of the most difficult teams to face in the SEC. White’s focus on building a strong, cohesive unit rather than relying on individual talent began to pay dividends, and the Bulldogs started to win games against top-tier competition.

It was this turnaround that earned Georgia its first appearance in the AP Top 25 rankings since 2011. White’s success in recruiting high-level talent, combined with his ability to coach up that talent, gave the Bulldogs the formula for success they had been lacking for years.

Key Players Driving Georgia’s Success

While Coach White’s leadership was pivotal, the players on the court were the ones who truly brought Georgia back into the AP Top 25 conversation. The Bulldogs’ roster in 2023-2024 featured a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented newcomers who came together to form a well-rounded and formidable team.

Terry Roberts, a senior guard who had been with the program for several seasons, became one of the team’s leaders. Roberts’ leadership on and off the court was invaluable to Georgia’s success. Known for his ability to score, distribute the basketball, and play tough defense, Roberts emerged as one of the Bulldogs’ most reliable players. His veteran presence and ability to perform in clutch situations helped solidify Georgia’s standing in the rankings.

Another standout player was Braelen Bridges, a forward who provided Georgia with both offensive production and defensive stability. Bridges had been with the program for several years, and his experience allowed him to become a focal point for Georgia’s offense. He was able to create mismatches in the post and stretch the floor with his ability to shoot from outside. His ability to score in multiple ways and his defensive prowess helped the Bulldogs compete with the top teams in the SEC.

Perhaps the most exciting player for Georgia in the 2023-2024 season was Kario Oquendo, a sophomore guard who became one of the most electrifying players in the SEC. Oquendo’s speed, athleticism, and scoring ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His explosive dunks and ability to drive to the basket gave Georgia a dynamic offensive weapon that could change the course of a game. As Oquendo continued to develop under White’s system, he became an integral part of the Bulldogs’ rise to the Top 25.

Other notable contributors included Jailyn Ingram, who provided a steadying presence on both ends of the court, and Javon Franklin, whose rebounding and shot-blocking helped anchor Georgia’s defense. The blend of experience and raw talent made this team one of the most complete squads in recent Georgia history.

The Role of Defense in Georgia’s Success

One of the key reasons for Georgia’s rise to the AP Top 25 was the team’s emphasis on defense. Under Mike White, Georgia became one of the best defensive teams in the SEC. White’s defensive philosophy focused on limiting the opponent’s ability to score efficiently, forcing turnovers, and creating opportunities for fast breaks.

The Bulldogs’ defense was led by several key players, including Terry Roberts and Braelen Bridges, who became standout defenders for the team. Roberts was particularly effective at pressuring opposing ball handlers, while Bridges provided a shot-blocking presence in the paint. Georgia’s ability to contest shots, guard multiple positions, and force turnovers allowed them to play at a faster tempo, which played to their offensive strengths.

White’s defense-first approach was instrumental in keeping Georgia competitive against top-tier teams in the SEC and nationally. By focusing on defense, Georgia was able to remain in games even when their offense was not firing on all cylinders. This balanced approach was key to their success and a major reason for their return to the national rankings.

Georgia’s Impressive SEC and National Wins

To break into the AP Top 25, Georgia had to prove themselves against tough competition. The SEC, one of the strongest basketball conferences in the country, provided plenty of opportunities for the Bulldogs to show their mettle. Georgia took on powerhouse programs like Kentucky, Alabama, and Tennessee, all of whom were ranked highly throughout the season.

In several key matchups, Georgia managed to pull off upsets and secure important victories that boosted their national profile. One of the biggest moments of the season came when Georgia defeated Kentucky in a thrilling game at home, a win that was crucial in propelling the Bulldogs into the AP rankings. This victory, along with other notable wins over SEC rivals, showed that Georgia had the talent and the coaching to compete at the highest level.

The Bulldogs also performed admirably in non-conference games, defeating ranked teams and solidifying their place in the national conversation. With each win, Georgia gained confidence and momentum, pushing them higher in the rankings and further establishing themselves as a legitimate contender for an NCAA tournament berth.

A Bright Future for Georgia Basketball

While the inclusion of Georgia men’s basketball in the AP Top 25 is a historic achievement, it also marks the beginning of what could be a sustained period of success for the program. The Bulldogs’ return to national prominence is not a one-time fluke, but rather a sign of the hard work and dedication that has been put into building a competitive program under Mike White.

Georgia’s recruiting efforts continue to improve, and the program’s future looks bright. With a talented roster, an experienced coaching staff, and a strong emphasis on developing players, the Bulldogs are poised to continue their rise in college basketball. Fans are excited about the direction of the program and eager to see how Georgia will perform in the NCAA tournament and beyond.