The power of the SEC in college basketball was demonstrated by the five SEC teams who made the new USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.
As the 2025 college basketball season continues to unfold, conference matchups are heating up, and rankings are becoming more significant in determining which teams are primed for postseason success. The USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll is one of the most respected and recognized rankings in college basketball, compiled weekly from votes cast by a panel of Division I head coaches. This poll provides insights into the top teams in the country and serves as a barometer for the strength of various conferences, including the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which has become a dominant force in college basketball in recent years.
The SEC is one of the premier basketball conferences in the nation, known for producing a high level of competition, talent, and consistently competitive teams. From basketball powerhouses like Kentucky to rising programs such as Auburn and Alabama, the SEC has continued to build a reputation as one of the toughest conferences to compete in. In this article, we will delve into how many SEC teams made it into the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, what this means for the conference, and what fans can expect from these teams as the season progresses.
The SEC’s Strength in College Basketball
In recent years, the Southeastern Conference has experienced a significant surge in basketball success. Historically known more for its dominance in football, the SEC has made substantial strides in becoming one of the premier conferences for college basketball. Schools like Kentucky, Arkansas, Alabama, and Tennessee have consistently been ranked among the top teams in the country.
The SEC’s rise in basketball success is largely attributed to the recruitment of top-tier talent and the establishment of strong coaching staffs that focus on player development, defense, and advanced strategies. Over the past few seasons, SEC teams have not only performed well in conference play but have also been able to compete effectively on the national stage in March Madness, sending multiple teams deep into the tournament.
While Kentucky is often seen as the conference’s flagship program, Auburn and Tennessee have also gained national prominence, with both schools consistently ranking in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. Furthermore, Alabama has quickly emerged as a team to watch, solidifying itself as a top contender. Other programs like Arkansas, Mississippi State, and Florida have also had competitive seasons, contributing to the SEC’s reputation as a conference that is difficult to navigate.
How Many SEC Teams Are in the Latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll?
As of the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, five SEC teams have made the cut, showcasing the depth and talent across the conference. These five teams have earned their spots based on strong performances throughout the season, with several making waves nationally. Here’s a closer look at those teams:
- Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky remains a perennial powerhouse in college basketball, and it’s no surprise that the Wildcats are one of the SEC teams ranked in the Coaches Poll. Under head coach John Calipari, Kentucky has produced numerous NBA players and consistently contends for national titles. With a rich history and a reputation for having one of the most talented rosters in college basketball, the Wildcats have stayed relevant in the Coaches Poll year after year. Even in the face of new challengers within the SEC, Kentucky’s brand, coupled with the team’s ability to develop talent, ensures its place near the top of the rankings.
Kentucky’s roster in 2025 is as loaded with talent as ever, with standout players in various positions. The Wildcats’ balanced offense, strong defensive schemes, and overall athleticism make them a formidable opponent in every game. Kentucky’s continued success both in conference play and on the national stage solidifies their position in the Coaches Poll as a top SEC team.
- Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama has quickly become one of the most exciting teams in college basketball, with head coach Nate Oats leading the way. The Crimson Tide have built a reputation for their up-tempo style of play, three-point shooting, and aggressive defense. Alabama’s fast-paced offensive system has been one of the most effective in the country, making them a dangerous team in the SEC and nationally.
The Crimson Tide have been a consistent presence in the Coaches Poll over the past few seasons, and they have shown that they can compete with the best of the best. With star players emerging and a strong recruiting class each year, Alabama has the tools to make deep tournament runs and could challenge for a national title. This consistency has earned them their place in the Coaches Poll, alongside other top-tier SEC programs.
- Tennessee Volunteers
Under the leadership of head coach Rick Barnes, the Tennessee Volunteers have developed into one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation. Known for their stifling defense and strong fundamental play, the Vols have been a consistent threat in both the SEC and NCAA tournaments. Tennessee has become a powerhouse in the SEC, with a deep roster that includes both experienced players and young, emerging talent.
The Volunteers’ ability to compete in one of the toughest conferences in the country and their consistent appearances in the Coaches Poll reflect the program’s growth and success under Barnes. Tennessee is a well-coached, disciplined team that can compete with the top teams in the nation. This year’s squad has proven that they are a serious contender and should be expected to remain in the Coaches Poll for the rest of the season.
- Auburn Tigers
Auburn, led by head coach Bruce Pearl, has become one of the most exciting programs in college basketball. After making a national championship appearance in 2019, Auburn has continued to be a regular fixture in the NCAA Tournament, thanks to its high-powered offense and scrappy defense. The Tigers are a team that thrives in big moments, and they have proven time and time again that they can compete with any team in the country.
Pearl has built a culture of toughness and intensity at Auburn, and the Tigers are a team that’s always a threat to upset higher-ranked opponents. With a talented roster that includes standout players and a style of play that relies on fast breaks, pressure defense, and three-point shooting, Auburn remains one of the top teams in the SEC and a constant presence in the Coaches Poll.
- Arkansas Razorbacks
Arkansas, under head coach Eric Musselman, has risen to prominence as one of the top programs in the SEC. Musselman has done an exceptional job of building a program that is both competitive and tough, with a relentless defense and efficient offense. Arkansas has become known for its hard-nosed play and ability to win big games, especially in the postseason.
The Razorbacks have consistently made the NCAA Tournament in recent years, and their inclusion in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll for the 2025 season is a testament to their continued success. With a strong recruiting pipeline and a team built on grit, Arkansas is a team that will likely be in the mix for an SEC title and a deep run in March Madness.
What This Means for the SEC
The fact that five SEC teams are ranked in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll speaks to the overall strength of the conference. The SEC is no longer just a football-first conference; it has proven to be a dominant force in college basketball as well. With five teams ranked, the SEC stands as one of the most competitive conferences in the country, offering basketball fans a thrilling season filled with potential upsets, rivalries, and postseason implications.
This level of representation in the Coaches Poll also highlights the depth of talent within the conference. The SEC isn’t just a two- or three-team league anymore—it is an entire ecosystem of strong programs that are capable of competing at the highest level. This depth makes the SEC even more exciting, as it promises tough matchups and unpredictable outcomes on a regular basis. From Kentucky’s elite recruiting to Alabama’s offensive prowess, and Tennessee’s defensive strength, each of the top SEC teams brings something unique to the table, making them difficult to prepare for and even harder to beat.
Furthermore, the SEC’s strength in basketball should not be underestimated on the national stage. As March Madness approaches, these top-ranked SEC teams will be battling it out for top seeds in the NCAA Tournament, with several of them positioning themselves for deep runs. The fact that five SEC teams have made it into the Coaches Poll reinforces the notion that the SEC is a legitimate contender for national titles, not just in football but in basketball as well.
