Despite what critics like Danny Kanell might say, the SEC remains one of the most dominant conferences in college basketball. From thrilling victories over top-ranked opponents to shocking losses against mid-majors, every team has had its fair share of ups and downs this season. Let’s take a look at the best win and worst loss for each SEC team, including Kentucky, LSU, and the rest of the conference.

Alabama

Best Win: vs. Purdue (82-78) – Alabama took down the No. 1-ranked Boilermakers in a statement game, proving their championship aspirations were legitimate.
Worst Loss: at Georgia (74-68) – A frustrating road loss to an inconsistent Bulldogs squad derailed Alabama’s momentum late in the season.

Arkansas

Best Win: vs. Duke (80-75) – The Razorbacks dominated a blue-blood program on their home court in a game that showcased their elite defense.
Worst Loss: vs. UNC Greensboro (78-72) – A head-scratching early-season defeat that hurt their tournament résumé.

Auburn

Best Win: vs. Tennessee (76-71) – A crucial SEC victory that solidified Auburn’s place among the league’s best.
Worst Loss: at Vanderbilt (79-73) – Losing to a struggling Commodores team was a setback in conference play.

Florida

Best Win: vs. Kentucky (85-80) – Any win over the Wildcats is a memorable one, and Florida took advantage of their home crowd.
Worst Loss: at Loyola Chicago (69-67) – A heartbreaking buzzer-beater loss against a mid-major hurt Florida’s non-conference strength of schedule.

Georgia

Best Win: vs. Alabama (74-68) – The Bulldogs pulled off a massive upset, taking down a Final Four-caliber team.
Worst Loss: vs. South Carolina State (65-61) – A shocking home defeat that raised questions about Georgia’s consistency.

Kentucky

Best Win: at North Carolina (89-81) – The Wildcats silenced the Tar Heels’ crowd with a dominant road performance.
Worst Loss: vs. LSU (72-68) – Losing at home to a rebuilding Tigers team was a frustrating low point in the season.

LSU

Best Win: at Kentucky (72-68) – The Tigers pulled off a stunning victory in Rupp Arena, a major highlight in their season.
Worst Loss: vs. Tulane (75-70) – A tough non-conference loss against an in-state foe hurt their NCAA Tournament chances.

Mississippi State

Best Win: vs. Texas A&M (77-70) – A big win that boosted their SEC standings.
Worst Loss: at Ole Miss (68-64) – Losing to their in-state rival in a winnable game stung.

Missouri

Best Win: vs. Illinois (81-74) – A huge rivalry win in the Braggin’ Rights game gave Mizzou fans bragging rights for the year.
Worst Loss: vs. Jackson State (76-73) – A shocking home loss that left fans scratching their heads.

Ole Miss

Best Win: vs. Arkansas (75-69) – A strong SEC win that helped their tournament hopes.
Worst Loss: at UAB (79-74) – Dropping a winnable non-conference game hurt their résumé.

South Carolina

Best Win: vs. Tennessee (68-66) – A thrilling last-second victory against a top-10 opponent was the highlight of their season.
Worst Loss: at Georgia Tech (67-63) – A frustrating non-conference loss to a struggling ACC team.

Tennessee

Best Win: at Kansas (72-68) – A massive road win against a national powerhouse proved the Vols were legit.
Worst Loss: at Florida (85-80) – A tough SEC loss that set them back in the standings.

Texas A&M

Best Win: vs. Auburn (82-76) – A key victory in conference play.
Worst Loss: vs. SMU (71-67) – A non-conference loss that hurt their postseason aspirations.

Vanderbilt

Best Win: vs. Auburn (79-73) – A surprising SEC upset gave Vandy fans something to cheer about.
Worst Loss: vs. Grambling State (66-62) – A stunning loss to a SWAC opponent was one of the worst of the SEC season.

Final Thoughts

Every SEC team has had its share of highs and lows this season. While some programs solidified their status as national contenders, others suffered head-scratching losses that could haunt them come Selection Sunday. One thing is certain: the SEC remains one of the most competitive and unpredictable conferences in college basketball.

Who do you think had the most impressive win or the worst loss this season? Let us know in the comments!