2025 SEC Basketball Projections, Rankings Updates

[jbcarol]

Joe Lunardi
@ESPNLunardi

Men's Bracketology: 2025 NCAA Tournament https://espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/page/bracketology/ncaa-bracketology-2025-march-madness-men-field-predictions. 🏀🏀 Barely a week has elapsed since UConn's dominant NCAA tournament performance led to a repeat national championship, but the unfettered movement of players from one school to another had already begun. And it will continue well past the May 1 deadline to enter this year's transfer portal, making a moving target of any serious attempt at Bracketology. Yet we begin our off-season projections with a familiar name at the top. Duke, led by generational recruit Cooper Flagg, starts our 2024-25 bracket cycle as the No. 1 overall seed. The Blue Devils' high-end returnees -- led by guards Jeremy Roach and Tyrese Proctor -- combine with Flagg and three other ESPN Top 100 freshmen to make Duke a fairly clear choice at this point. Also worth noting are a few updates to our off-season methodology. First, this projection includes all portal activity through close of business on April 15. Second, it excludes all players that are consensus NBA first- or early second-round picks as well as other underclassmen who have renounced their college eligibility. Finally, it assumes the return of the last class of COVID-year players unless announced otherwise. Remember this is a very early snapshot and we are a long, long way from November.

There is no longer an off-season in college basketball. With more than 1,500 Division I players changing teams, the majority of programs are dependent on the transfer portal to stock and re-stock their rosters each spring. The resulting tumult creates wide swings in projected performance for the following year, and we're here to track it for you with monthly bracket updates until opening night on November 4.

 1 UA-aq
 3 AU
 4 TX
 5 TN
 6 UF
 8 MS
 9 A&M
10 USC
11 MU

SEC
9
Big Ten
9
Big 12
8
ACC
7
Big East
6

[jbcarol]

Kentucky freshman Reed Sheppard to forgo eligibility, enter 2024 NBA Draft

by: Andrew Graham
•

Kentucky legacy and star freshman Reed Sheppard will pass on his remaining college eligibility and enter the 2024 NBA Draft, according to ESPN's Jonathan Givony. Sheppard was considered a potential lean to stay at Kentucky for a sophomore season.

Instead, Sheppard, a McDonald's All-American and a bit of a surprise star in Kentucky's loaded 2023 signing class, will leave for the NBA, where he's projected to be a potential lottery pick. Various mock drafts throughout the season have projected him as a potential Top 5 pick, though his stock has cooled.

This story will be updated.

[jbcarol]

Jon Rothstein@JonRothstein

The ROTHSTEIN 45 is changing HOURLY.

Some recent updates:

*UConn enters Top 10.
*Florida moves to 17.
*Xavier holds strong at 19.
*Indiana enters Top 20.
*UCLA jumps to 22 with addition of Tyler Bilodeau.

CC: @FDSportsbook, @FanDuelResearch.



This list will be updated DAILY as its tracks every single piece of player movement during the offseason.

All players who have an additional year of eligibility will be penciled in to return unless they're projected to be first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft.

If those players announce other plans, their status will be updated accordingly.

All college basketball odds come from FanDuel Sportsbook.

3. Alabama (+1600)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Jarin Stevenson
F Grant Nelson
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Mohamed Wague, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn)
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Mark Sears, Latrell Wrightsell, Grant Nelson
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Mark Sears

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Denver Jones
G Chris Moore
F Chad Baker-Mazara
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Chaney Johnson
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Chris Moore

15. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Andersson Garcia
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
Projected Bench: Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

17. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Will Richard
G Alijah Martin
F Alex Condon
C Micah Handlogten (if back from injury)
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Reuben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Walter Clayton

25. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jordan Gainey
G Jahmai Mashack
G Darlinstone Dubar
C JP Estrella
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Cameron Carr
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

38. State
Projected Starting 5:
G Ye
G Josh Hubbard
G Claudell Harris
F Cam Matthews
C Michael Nwoko
Projected Bench: Adrian Myers, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

42. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
F RJ Melendez
F Dylan James
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Dylan James, Frank Anselem, De'Shayne Montgomery
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's)
Key Losses: RJ Sunahara, Russel Tchewa, Jalen Deloach, Justin Hill, Jabri Abdur-Rahim
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Frank Anselem

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Top 25 college basketball rankings 4.0:

NBA Draft entry deadline passes

by: James Fletcher III
•

Here are the guidelines you need to know:

All NBA Draft decisions will not be made for the player, despite the early entry deadline. They are considered back unless they have been listed in the latest On3 Mock Draft. Any other decisions will be accounted for when the player announced their plan moving forward. In addition, this is the final year of COVID eligibility rules, and each roster has been traced the best it can to determine which players hold additional eligibility. Waivers and senior decisions will shape the final roster.

Teams without a full rotation of returning and incoming players at the time of ranking were not considered.

3. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon (may get Onyenso)
Key departures: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters

9. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues
Key departures: Jaylin Williams, Aden Holloway, KD Johnson, Tre Donaldson

Auburn got a transfer portal commitment from JP Pegues over the past week, adding to their collection of backcourt talent heading into next season beside Pettiford.

12. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Key departures: Max Abmas, Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell

17. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton, Will Richard, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Key departures: Zyon Pullin, Riley Kugel, Tyrese Samuel

20. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara (, Igor Milicic, Jr.)
Key departures: Dalton Knecht, Santiago Vescovi, Josiah-Jordan James, Jonas Aidoo, Tobe Awaka

22. A&M
Key returns: Wade Taylor, Andersson Garcia, Henry Coleman, Solomon Washington, Jace Carter, Manny Obaseki, Hayden Hefner
Key additions: CJ Wilcher, Pharrel Payne
Key departures: Tyrece Radford

23. Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Key departures: Allen Flanigan

So Flanigan and Jaylin Williams are no longer in the SEC

[jbcarol]

Casagrande: Time to Crank up preseason hype machine for Alabama, Auburn

Ms. Sears little boy

We're a day away from May and there's a real preseason buzz in the state of Alabama.

Top recruiting classes are merging with high-profile transfers while big-name returnees are grabbing headlines.

We're talking basketball here.

The news Monday of Grant Nelson's return to Alabama for one final collegiate season just added to the momentum of these two as they rise in the preseason projections.

Almost two weeks earlier, it was Auburn All-American Johni Broome's return that gave a jolt to the Tigers offseason.

Sandwiched in the middle was the transfer of former 5-star Aden Holloway from Auburn to Alabama which served as a lightning rod.

What an ending for a month of April that began with the Crimson Tide's surprising run to the program's first Final Four.

Now, anything short of a repeat would feel like a failure.

Just look at the rankings.

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
John Calipari and Arkansas have had a big couple of days with the additions of both Johnell Davis (FAU) and Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee).

The Razorbacks have jumped to 31st in the ROTHSTEIN 45.



31. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Billy Richmond
G Johnell Davis
F Karter Knox
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Johnell Davis

[jbcarol]

MEN'S BRACKETOLOGY: 2025 NCAA TOURNAMENT
BY JOE LUNARDI
UPDATED: 5/2/2024 AT 10 A.M. ET

The fault lines of college basketball are on full display in this special post-portal update.

2 Bama-aq
3 AU
4 UT
4 UT
5 A&M
6 UF
7 OM
8 UK
9 MS
10 Arkansas



Big Ten
12
SEC
10
Big 12
7
ACC
7
Big East
5

[jbcarol]

Jeff Borzello
@jeffborzello
By far the most useful thing I put together each year.

I outlined roster changes for every team in the top five leagues, plus some others -- departures, players in limbo, returnees, newcomers.

Updated through this AM. Bookmark to keep up all offseason.



SEC

Crimson Tide
Departed or expected to depart: Aaron Estrada (13.4 PPG), Rylan Griffen (11.2 PPG), Nick Pringle (6.8 PPG), Davin Cosby (3.6 PPG), Sam Walters (5.4 PPG), Mohamed Wague (3.1 PPG), Kris Parker (redshirt)
In limbo: Mark Sears (21.5 PPG)
Expected to return: Grant Nelson (11.9 PPG), Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (8.9 PPG), Jarin Stevenson (5.3 PPG), Mouhamed Dioubate (2.9 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Houston Mallette (14.7 PPG at Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (15.3 PPG at South Florida), Aden Holloway (7.3 PPG at Auburn)
Incoming freshmen: Derrion Reid (No. 11 in ESPN 100), Aiden Sherrell (No. 21 in ESPN 100), Labaron Philon (No. 30 in ESPN 100), Naasir Cunningham (No. 62 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Nate Oats

Arkansas Razorbacks
Departed or expected to depart: Tramon Mark (16.2 PPG), Khalif Battle (14.8 PPG), Makhi Mitchell (8.6 PPG), Trevon Brazile (8.6 PPG), Keyon Menifield Jr. (7.9 PPG), Jalen Graham (7.6 PPG), El Ellis (6.5 PPG), Davonte Davis (5.9 PPG), Jeremiah Davenport (5.0 PPG), Layden Blocker (3.7 PPG), Chandler Lawson (3.7 PPG), Joseph Pinion (2.4 PPG), Baye Fall (0.8 PPG), Denijay Harris (0.6 PPG)
In limbo: Johnell Davis (18.2 PPG at Florida Atlantic)
Expected to return: None
Incoming transfers: Jonas Aidoo (11.4 PPG at Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (5.5 PPG at Kentucky)
Incoming freshmen: Johnuel Fland (No. 14 in ESPN 100), Karter Knox (No. 26 in ESPN 100), Billy Richmond (No. 38 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: John Calipari

Auburn Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Jaylin Williams (12.4 PPG), K.D. Johnson (7.1 PPG), Aden Holloway (7.3 PPG), Lior Berman (1.7 PPG), Tre Donaldson (6.7 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Johni Broome (16.5 PPG), Chad Baker-Mazara (10.0 PPG), Denver Jones (9.1 PPG), Dylan Cardwell (5.3 PPG), Chaney Johnson (4.7 PPG), Chris Moore (2.5 PPG), Addarin Scott (0.4 PPG)
Incoming transfers: JP Pegues (18.4 PPG at Furman)
Incoming freshmen: Tahaad Pettiford (No. 33 in ESPN 100), Jahki Howard (No. 60 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Bruce Pearl

Florida Gators
Departed or expected to depart: Tyrese Samuel (13.9 PPG), Zyon Pullin (15.5 PPG), Riley Kugel (9.2 PPG), Julian Rishwain (1.6 PPG), Aleks Szymczyk
In limbo: Walter Clayton Jr. (17.6 PPG)
Expected to return: Will Richard (11.4 PPG), Alex Condon (7.7 PPG), Micah Handlogten (5.3 PPG), Thomas Haugh (3.9 PPG), Denzel Aberdeen (3.3 PPG), Kajus Kublickas (0.8 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Sam Alexis (10.8 PPG at Chattanooga), Alijah Martin (13.1 PPG at Florida Atlantic), Rueben Chinyelu (4.7 PPG at Washington State)
Incoming freshmen: Isaiah Brown (four-star), Olivier Rioux (NR)

Head coach: Todd Golden

Georgia Bulldogs
Departed or expected to depart: Noah Thomasson (13.1 PPG), Jabri Abdur-Rahim (12.2 PPG), RJ Melendez (9.6 PPG), Justin Hill (9.5 PPG), Russel Tchewa (7.4 PPG), Jalen DeLoach (3.6 PPG), Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe (1.1 PPG), Frank Anselem-Ibe (2.6 PPG), RJ Sunahara (2.0 PPG), Lamariyon Jordan (redshirt)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Silas Demary Jr. (9.7 PPG), Blue Cain (7.4 PPG), Dylan James (4.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Dakota Leffew (17.6 PPG at Mount St. Mary's), De'Shayne Montgomery (13.2 PPG at Mount St. Mary's), Justin Abson (7.9 PPG at Appalachian State), RJ Godfrey (6.1 PPG at Clemson)
Incoming freshmen: Asa Newell (No. 12 in ESPN 100), Somto Cyril (No. 49 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Mike White

Kentucky Wildcats
Departed or expected to depart: Rob Dillingham (15.2 PPG), Antonio Reeves (20.2 PPG), Reed Sheppard (12.5 PPG), Justin Edwards (8.8 PPG), Tre Mitchell (10.7 PPG), D.J. Wagner (9.9 PPG), Adou Thiero (7.2 PPG), Aaron Bradshaw (4.9 PPG), Zvonimir Ivisic (5.5 PPG), Ugonna Onyenso (3.6 PPG), Jordan Burks (1.9 PPG), Joey Hart (1.9 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: None
Incoming transfers: Amari Williams (12.2 PPG at Drexel), Koby Brea (11.1 PPG at Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (11.0 PPG at West Virginia), Lamont Butler (9.4 PPG at San Diego State), Otega Oweh (11.4 PPG at Oklahoma), Andrew Carr (13.5 PPG at Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (7.5 PPG at Oklahoma State)
Incoming freshmen: Travis Perry (No. 74 in ESPN 100), Collin Chandler (No. 32 in 2022 ESPN 100)

Head coach: Mark Pope

LSU Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Jalen Cook (15.6 PPG), Jordan Wright (15.1 PPG), Will Baker (11.0 PPG), Trae Hannibal (7.0 PPG), Carlos Stewart (4.7 PPG), Hunter Dean (4.2 PPG), Mwani Wilkinson (2.1 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Tyrell Ward (9.1 PPG), Jalen Reed (7.9 PPG), Mike Williams III (7.2 PPG), Derek Fountain (5.3 PPG), Daimion Collins (4.3 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Jordan Sears (21.6 PPG at UT Martin), Cam Carter (14.6 PPG at Kansas State), Dji Bailey (10.2 PPG at Richmond)
Incoming freshmen: Curtis Givens (No. 39 in ESPN 100), Vyctorius Miller (No. 42 in ESPN 100), Robert Miller (No. 86 in ESPN 100), Corey Chest (redshirt)

Head coach: Matt McMahon

Mississippi State Bulldogs
Departed or expected to depart: Tolu Smith (15.0 PPG), Jimmy Bell Jr. (5.0 PPG), Dashawn Davis (6.6 PPG), Shakeel Moore (7.9 PPG), D.J. Jeffries (6.5 PPG), Trey Fort (5.0 PPG), Jaquan Scott (1.2 PPG), Andrew Taylor (3.9 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Josh Hubbard (17.1 PPG), Cameron Matthews (9.4 PPG), KeShawn Murphy (4.7 PPG), Shawn Jones Jr. (4.5 PPG), Gai Chol (2.1 PPG), Adrian Myers (1.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Kanye Clary (16.7 PPG at Penn State), Michael Nwoko (2.7 PPG at Miami), Claudell Harris Jr. (13.7 PPG at Boston College)
Incoming freshmen: Dellquan Warren (No. 78 in ESPN 100), Chol Machot (NR), Eric Paymon (four-star)

Head coach: Chris Jans

Missouri Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Sean East II (17.6 PPG), Noah Carter (11.0 PPG), Nick Honor (11.1 PPG), Connor Vanover (4.2 PPG), Jordan Butler (2.0 PPG), John Tonje (2.6 PPG), Jesus Carralero Martin (2.1 PPG), Curt Lewis (2.0 PPG), Kaleb Brown (1.0 PPG), Mabor Majak (0.5 PPG), Caleb Grill (8.4 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Tamar Bates (13.5 PPG), Anthony Robinson (3.9 PPG), Aidan Shaw (3.6 PPG), Trent Pierce (1.8 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Mark Mitchell (11.6 PPG at Duke), Tony Perkins (14.0 PPG at Iowa), Marques Warrick (19.9 PPG at Northern Kentucky), Jacob Crews (19.1 PPG at UT Martin)
Incoming freshmen: K. Annor Boateng (No. 31 in ESPN 100), Marcus Allen (No. 71 in ESPN 100), Peyton Marshall (four-star), T.O. Barrett (four-star), Trent Burns (four-star)

Head coach: Dennis Gates

Oklahoma Sooners
Departed or expected to depart: Javian McCollum (13.3 PPG), Otega Oweh (11.4 PPG), Rivaldo Soares (9.4 PPG), Milos Uzan (9.0 PPG), John Hugley IV (8.4 PPG), Le'Tre Darthard (6.7 PPG), Maks Klanjscek (2.0 PPG), Kaden Cooper (1.5 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Jalon Moore (11.2 PPG), Sam Godwin (6.7 PPG), Luke Northweather (2.0 PPG), Yaya Keita (0.8 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Kobe Elvis (9.4 PPG at Dayton), Brycen Goodine (13.9 PPG at Fairfield), Jadon Jones (12.1 PPG at Long Beach State)
Incoming freshmen: Kuol Atak (four-star), Dayton Forsythe (three-star), Jacob Cole (redshirt)

Head coach: Porter Moser

Ole Miss Rebels
Departed or expected to depart: Allen Flanigan (14.8 PPG), Brandon Murray (4.3 PPG), Moussa Cisse (4.5 PPG), Jamarion Sharp (3.3 PPG), Rashaud Marshall (1.4 PPG), Austin Nunez (0.7 PPG), Cameron Barnes, Jacob Gazzo
In limbo: Matthew Murrell (16.2 PPG)
Expected to return: Jaylen Murray (13.8 PPG), Jaemyn Brakefield (12.9 PPG), TJ Caldwell (5.5 PPG), Robert Cowherd (1.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Dre Davis (15.0 PPG at Seton Hall), Sean Pedulla (16.4 PPG at Virginia Tech), Mikeal Brown-Jones (18.9 PPG at UNC Greensboro), Malik Dia (16.9 PPG at Belmont), Davon Barnes (13.5 PPG at Sam Houston State)
Incoming freshmen: John Bol (No. 54 in ESPN 100), Eduardo Klafke (three-star)

Head coach: Chris Beard

South Carolina Gamecocks
Departed or expected to depart: Meechie Johnson (14.1 PPG), BJ Mack (13.6 PPG), Ta'Lon Cooper (9.9 PPG), Josh Gray (3.2 PPG), Stephen Clark (2.2 PPG), Ebrima Dibba
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Collin Murray-Boyles (10.4 PPG), Myles Stute (8.3 PPG), Jacobi Wright (5.9 PPG), Zachary Davis (5.9 PPG), Benjamin Bosmans-Verdonk (2.5 PPG), Morris Ugusuk (2.2 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Nick Pringle (6.8 PPG at Alabama), Jordan Butler (2.0 PPG at Missouri)
Incoming freshmen: Cameron Scott (No. 37 in ESPN 100), Trent Noah (NR), Okku Federiko (NR), Arden Conyers (redshirt)

Head coach: Lamont Paris

Tennessee Volunteers
Departed or expected to depart: Dalton Knecht (21.7 PPG), Josiah-Jordan James (8.4 PPG), Santiago Vescovi (6.3 PPG), Jonas Aidoo (11.4 PPG), Tobe Awaka (5.1 PPG), Freddie Dilione V (1.7 PPG), D.J. Jefferson
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Zakai Zeigler (11.8 PPG), Jordan Gainey (6.8 PPG), Jahmai Mashack (4.5 PPG), J.P. Estrella (1.6 PPG), Cade Phillips (0.9 PPG), Cameron Carr (1.6 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Darlinstone Dubar (17.8 PPG at Hofstra), Felix Okpara (6.6 PPG at Ohio State), Igor Milicic Jr. (12.8 PPG at Charlotte)
Incoming freshmen: Bishop Boswell (No. 61 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Rick Barnes

Texas Longhorns
Departed or expected to depart: Dylan Disu (15.5 PPG), Max Abmas (16.8 PPG), Tyrese Hunter (11.1 PPG), Dillon Mitchell (9.6 PPG), Brock Cunningham (4.4 PPG), Ithiel Horton (5.9 PPG), Chris Johnson (1.1 PPG), Alex Anamekwe
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Kadin Shedrick (7.7 PPG), Chendall Weaver (6.2 PPG), Ze'Rik Onyema (3.3 PPG), Devon Pryor
Incoming transfers: Tramon Mark (16.2 PPG at Arkansas), Jayson Kent (13.5 PPG at Indiana State), Julian Larry (11.0 PPG at Indiana State), Jordan Pope (17.6 PPG at Oregon State), Malik Presley (2.2 PPG at Vanderbilt)
Incoming freshmen: Tre Johnson (No. 5 in ESPN 100), Nic Codie (No. 76 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Rodney Terry

A&M Aggies
Departed or expected to depart: Tyrece Radford (16.5 PPG), Eli Lawrence (2.1 PPG), Bryce Lindsay (1.8 PPG), Wildens Leveque (1.6 PPG), Julius Marble (9.1 PPG in 2022-23)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Wade Taylor IV (19.1 PPG), Henry Coleman III (8.8 PPG), Solomon Washington (7.4 PPG), Manny Obaseki (7.0 PPG), Jace Carter (6.9 PPG), Andersson Garcia (6.0 PPG), Hayden Hefner (5.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: C.J. Wilcher (7.7 PPG at Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (10.0 PPG at Minnesota), Zhuric Phelps (14.7 PPG at SMU)
Incoming freshmen: Andre Mills (four-star), George Turkson (four-star), Rob Dockery (redshirt)

Head coach: Buzz Williams

Vanderbilt Commodores
Departed or expected to depart: Ezra Manjon (14.7 PPG), Tyrin Lawrence (13.8 PPG), Ven-Allen Lubin (12.3 PPG), Evan Taylor (8.0 PPG), Colin Smith (7.1 PPG), Jason Rivera-Torres (6.4 PPG), Paul Lewis (4.4 PPG), Tasos Kamateros (4.5 PPG), Isaiah West (2.8 PPG), Malik Presley (2.2 PPG), Carter Lang (1.8 PPG), Lee Dort (1.0 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: JaQualon Roberts (2.3 PPG), Jordan Williams (1.5 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Jason Edwards (19.1 PPG at North Texas), Devin McGlockton (10.2 PPG at Boston College), Grant Huffman (12.8 PPG at Davidson), Chris Manon (12.5 PPG at Boston College), MJ Collins (7.4 PPG at Virginia Tech), Tyler Nickel (8.8 PPG at Virginia Tech), Jaylen Carey (7.0 PPG at James Madison)
Incoming freshmen: Karris Bilal (NR), Tyler Tanner (NR)

Head coach: Mark Byington

OTHER NOTABLES

Mountain West

[jbcarol]

Joe Lunardi somehow already has a 2025 Bracketology update

by: Zack Geoghegan
•

The transfer portal window hasn't even been closed for 24 hours yet — and hundreds of players remain uncommitted —

And where did he have Mark Pope's Kentucky Wildcats? Checking in as an 8-seed in the Midwest Region (Indianapolis) with a first-round matchup against 9-seed Clemson and a possible second-round showdown with top-seeded Kansas. Of course, we have to mention that Kentucky has just nine players on the roster right now, with five of them committing over the last five days.

[jbcarol]

Rothstein: Weekend Brunch: Why the development of UConn's freshman class may determine if the Huskies can three-peat in 2025

Can UConn be the first program to win three national titles in a row since UCLA from 1971-73 under John Wooden

It's definitely within the realm of possibility, but much of that quest will depend on the growth of the Huskies' three freshmen — Solomon Ball, Jaylin Stewart, and Jayden Ross —

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
Ohio State's transfer class now features Sean Stewart (Duke), Aaron Bradshaw (Kentucky), Meechie Johnson (South Carolina), and Micah Parrish (San Diego State).

The Buckeyes are up to 15th in the ROTHSTEIN 45.

CC: @FDSportsbook, @FanDuelResearch.

3. Alabama (+1600)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Jarin Stevenson
F Grant Nelson
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Mark Sears
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Mark Sears

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Denver Jones
G Chris Moore
F Chad Baker-Mazara
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Chaney Johnson
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

17. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Will Richard
G Alijah Martin
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Reuben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Walter Clayton, Will Richard

18. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Cameron Carr
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

31. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Billy Richmond
G Johnell Davis
F Karter Knox
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Johnell Davis

38. Mississippi State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
G Claudell Harris
F Cam Matthews
C KeShawn Murphy
Projected Bench: Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

41. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
C Somto Cyril
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson)
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson

42. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Otega Oweh
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner

43. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
F Malik Dia
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG)
Key Losses: Allen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

[jbcarol]

Multiple teams climb in latest top 25 and 1 rankings from CBS Sports

by: Grant Grubbs
•

no shortage of change has already swept through the college basketball scene. On Friday, CBS Sports' Gary Parrish released his latest Top 25 and 1 rankings.

The list accounts for several standout transfer departures and commitments along with jaw-dropping coaching changes around the nation. From blue-blooded staples to under-the-radar programs, Parrish left stones unturned.

8. Alabama Crimson Tide

9. Auburn Tigers

11. Texas A&M

16. Tennessee

19. Florida

21. Texas

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
Alabama is now SECOND in the ROTHSTEIN 45 after adding Rutgers transfer Cliff Omoruyi.

UPDATED TOP 10:

1. Kansas
2. Alabama
3. Houston
4. Iowa State
5. UConn
6. North Carolina
7. Gonzaga
8. Purdue
9. Baylor
10. Duke

CC: @FDSportsbook, @FanDuelResearch.



All players who have an additional year of eligibility will be penciled in to return unless they're projected to be first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft or proclaim that they plan to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft.

2. Alabama (+1600)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Grant Nelson
C Cliff Omoruyi
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mo Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon, Jarin Stevenson
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon, Cliff Omoruyi (Rutgers)
Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Mark Sears
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Mark Sears

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Denver Jones
G Chris Moore
F Chad Baker-Mazara
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Chaney Johnson
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

17. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Will Richard
G Alijah Martin
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Reuben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Walter Clayton, Will Richard

18. Tennessee 
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Cameron Carr
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

27. Texas
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Pope
G Tre Johnson
G Tramon Mark
F Jayson Kent
C Kadin Shedrick
Projected Bench: Ze'Rik Onyema, Nicholas Codie, Chendall Weaver, Julian Larry, Malik Presley
Key Newcomers: Tre Johnson, Nicholas Codie, Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State), Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jordan Pope (Texas), Malik Presley (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Ithiel Horton, Max Abmas, Brock Cunningham, Dylan Disu, Dillon Mitchell, Tyrese Mitchell

31. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Billy Richmond
G Johnell Davis
F Karter Knox
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility and arranging individual try-outs while skipping the G League Elite Invite: Johnell Davis

38. State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
F RJ Melendez
F Cam Matthews
C KeShawn Murphy
Projected Bench: Claudell Harris, Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College), RJ Melendez (Georgia)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

41. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
G Tyrin Lawrence
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery, Somto Cyril
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson), Tyrin Lawrence (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson

42. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Otega Oweh
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner

43. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
F Malik Dia
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG)
Key Losses: Allen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Way-too-early Top 25 college basketball rankings 5.0: Marquee transfers find new homes

by: James Fletcher III
•

The picture of what college basketball will look like in 2024-25 is starting to gain clarity, with several top transfers finding new homes after the portal closed. Plenty of other transfer decisions and late movement on the recruiting trail will continue to shape future way-too-early Top 25 updates.

1. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon, Clifford Omoruyi
Key departures: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters

Alabama made big headlines once again this week by adding former Rutgers center Clifford Omoruyi to the starting lineup. The Crimson Tide is now talented and deep at every positions with only two NBA Draft decisions left.

9. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues
Key departures: Jaylin Williams, Aden Holloway, KD Johnson, Tre Donaldson

Auburn got a transfer portal commitment from JP Pegues, adding to their collection of backcourt talent heading into next season beside Tahaad Pettiford. The Tigers remain in a close race for the final spots inside the Top 10 of the way-too-early rankings.


12. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Key departures: Max Abmas, Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell

17. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton, Will Richard, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Key departures: Zyon Pullin, Riley Kugel, Tyrese Samuel

20. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara, Igor Milicic
Key departures: Dalton Knecht, Santiago Vescovi, Josiah-Jordan James, Jonas Aidoo, Tobe Awaka

22. A&M
Key returns: Wade Taylor, Andersson Garcia, Henry Coleman, Solomon Washington, Jace Carter, Manny Obaseki, Hayden Hefner
Key additions: CJ Wilcher, Pharrel Payne, Zhuric Phelps
Key departures: Tyrece Radford

24. Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Key departures: Allen Flanigan


Miami transfer Norchad Omier commits to Baylor

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
Baylor added an All-American in Miami transfer Norchad Omier.

The Bears are now 4th in the ROTHSTEIN 45.

TOP 10:

1. Kansas
2. Alabama
3. Houston
4. Baylor
5. Iowa State
6. UConn
7. UNC
8. Gonzaga
9. Purdue
10. Duke



All players who have an additional year of eligibility will be penciled in to return unless they're projected to be first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft or proclaim that they plan to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft.

2. Alabama (+1600)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Grant Nelson
C Cliff Omoruyi
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon, Jarin Stevenson
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon, Cliff Omoruyi (Rutgers)
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Mark Sears
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Mark Sears

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Denver Jones
G Chris Moore
F Chad Baker-Mazara
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Chaney Johnson
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. Texas A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

17. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Will Richard
G Alijah Martin
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Reuben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Walter Clayton, Will Richard

18. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Cameron Carr
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

27. Texas
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Pope
G Tre Johnson
G Tramon Mark
F Jayson Kent
C Kadin Shedrick
Projected Bench: Ze'Rik Onyema, Nicholas Codie, Chendall Weaver, Julian Larry, Malik Presley
Key Newcomers: Tre Johnson, Nicholas Codie, Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State), Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jordan Pope (Texas), Malik Presley (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Ithiel Horton, Max Abmas, Brock Cunningham, Dylan Disu, Dillon Mitchell, Tyrese Mitchell

31. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Billy Richmond
G Johnell Davis
F Karter Knox
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Johnell Davis

38. Mississippi State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
F RJ Melendez
F Cam Matthews
C KeShawn Murphy
Projected Bench: Claudell Harris, Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College), RJ Melendez (Georgia)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

41. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
G Tyrin Lawrence
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery, Somto Cyril
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson), Tyrin Lawrence (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson

42. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Otega Oweh
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner

43. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
F Malik Dia
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG)
Key Losses: Allen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

[jbcarol]

@jeffborzello
BREAKING: Kentucky transfer Adou Thiero, a projected first-round pick in the 2025 NBA draft, has committed to Arkansas, he told me and @DraftExpress. Started 19 games this past season for the Wildcats and becomes the fifth player to follow John Calipari from UK to Arkansas.



They're gonna need to re-rank

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
John Calipari has quickly built a veteran foundation at Arkansas with Johnell Davis (FAU), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), and Adou Thiero (Kentucky).

The Razorbacks have climbed to 13th in the ROTHSTEIN 45.

All players who have an additional year of eligibility will be penciled in to return unless they're projected to be first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft or proclaim that they plan to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft.

13. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Johnell Davis
G Karter Knox
F Adou Thiero
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic, Billy Richmond
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox, Adou Thiero (Kentucky)
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Johnell Davis

[jbcarol]

Kentucky not included in Way-Too-Early Top 25

Early roster build

by: Tyler Thompson
•

It's been almost a month since the 2023-24 college basketball season ended. With the transfer portal now closed and over three weeks until the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline (May 29), several outlets are releasing updated "Way Too Early" Top 25

Kentucky isn't included in any of them.

With just nine players on the roster and some big fish still in the sea, that's not terribly surprising. Mark Pope told Tom Leach on Friday that Kentucky is still pursuing a few players currently testing the NBA Draft waters. One is almost certainly former BYU star Jaxson Robinson, who will participate in the NBA Draft combine next week. Shooting guard Wooga Poplar ... will participate in the G League Elite Camp prior to the Combine.

There are a handful of other targets out there with reported UK interest, including North Florida transfer guard Chaz Lanier, who heard from the staff at the end of last week.

Where Kentucky lands in the rankings once the roster is complete remains to be seen; however, currently, there are some familiar names at the top. Both ESPN's Jeff Borzello and CBS Sports' Gary Parrish have Kansas as the preseason No. 1 team, with On3's James Fletcher III giving the top spot to Alabama instead. Houston and UConn are other popular top-five picks.

[jbcarol]

@TheFieldOf68
🐗 vs 🔵⚪️

⬇️ WHO YOU GOT⁉️⬇️

[jbcarol]

Recent transfers force changes in latest top 25 and 1 from CBS Sports

by: Griffin McVeigh
•

With some transfer movement in recent days, CBS has changed up the top 25 and 1.

The offseason is far from over as plenty of key players are still out there. But for now, the latest:

9. Alabama Crimson Tide


10. Auburn Tigers


11. Texas A&M Aggies

16. Tennessee Volunteers

20. Florida Gators

21. Texas Longhorns

23. Arkansas Razorbacks

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Way-too-early Top 25 college basketball rankings 6.0: Big names off the board in transfer portal

by: James Fletcher III
•

The transfer portal is now closed, but the movement by players who entered continues as teams across college basketball look to finalize their 2024-25 roster. The balance of those moves continues to shape future way-too-early Top 25 updates:

Teams without a full rotation of returning and incoming players at the time of ranking were not considered.

1. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears*, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson*
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon, Clifford Omoruyi
Key departures: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters

Alabama made big headlines last week by adding former Rutgers center Clifford Omoruyi to the starting lineup. Crimson Tide is now talented yet deep at every positions with only two NBA Draft decisions left from Mark Sears and Jarin Stevenson.

9. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues
Key departures: Jaylin Williams, Aden Holloway, KD Johnson, Tre Donaldson

Auburn got a transfer portal commitment from JP Pegues, adding to their collection of backcourt talent heading into next season beside Tahaad Pettiford. The Tigers remain in a close race for the final spots inside the Top 10 of the way-too-early rankings.

12. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Key departures: Max Abmas, Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell

17. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton*, Will Richard*, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Key departures: Zyon Pullin, Riley Kugel, Tyrese Samuel

20. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara, Igor Milicic*
Key departures: Dalton Knecht, Santiago Vescovi, Josiah-Jordan James, Jonas Aidoo, Tobe Awaka

22. A&M
Key returns: Wade Taylor, Andersson Garcia, Henry Coleman, Solomon Washington, Jace Carter, Manny Obaseki, Hayden Hefner
Key additions: CJ Wilcher, Pharrel Payne, Zhuric Phelps
Key departures: Tyrece Radford

23. USC
Key returns: N/A
Key additions: Clark Slajchert, Josh Cohen, Bryce Pope, Matt Knowling, Saint Thomas*, Isaiah Elohim, Chibuzo Agbo*, Rashaun Agee, Terrance Williams*, Desmond Claude
Key departures: Boogie Ellis, Isaiah Collier, Kobe Johnson, DJ Rodman, Joshua Morgan, Oziyah Sellers, Vincent Iwuchukwu

24. Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell*, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Key departures: Allen Flanigan

[jbcarol]

MEN'S BRACKETOLOGY: 2025 NCAA TOURNAMENT
BY JOE LUNARDI
UPDATED: 5/14/2024 AT 9:10 A.M. ET

The last time anyone saw an NCAA basketball three-peat the heroes were John Wooden, Bill Walton and the UCLA Bruins

 3 UA-aq
 3 AU
 4 UT
 4 TX
 5 A&M
 7 ARK
 7 UF
 8 UK
 8 OM
 8 MS

 4th out Mizzou

[jbcarol]

@jeffborzello
Updated Way-Too-Early Top 25:

1. Kansas
2. Houston
3. Gonzaga
4. Baylor
5. Iowa State
6. Alabama
7. UConn
8. Duke

We're just a few decisions away from having one of the strongest preseason top-10s, top-to-bottom, in recent memory.

6. Alabama Crimson Tide
Previous ranking: 6

Nate Oats spent the first part of the offseason overhauling the perimeter group. Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen -- and perhaps Mark Sears -- are out the door, while Aden Holloway (Auburn), Chris Youngblood (South Florida) and Houston Mallette (Pepperdine) have arrived. The past couple of weeks, however, he's been focused on the frontcourt, first getting starting forward Grant Nelson back and then beating out North Carolina for Rutgers transfer Clifford Omoruyi.

Projected starting lineup

Aden Holloway (7.3 PPG at Auburn)
Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (8.9 PPG)
Chris Youngblood (15.3 PPG at South Florida)
Grant Nelson (11.9 PPG)
Cliff Omoruyi (10.4 PPG at Rutgers)

11. Texas A&M Aggies
Previous ranking: 11

A&M struggled in the first half of the season for the second straight campaign before surging late and making the NCAA tournament. With further continuity entering next season, perhaps the Aggies will get off to a stronger start. Seven of their top eight scorers are back, led by potential All-American candidate Wade Taylor IV. Buzz Williams also landed a couple of impact transfers, headlined by SMU's Zhuric Phelps and Minnesota's Pharrel Payne, who should both push for starting spots.

Projected starting lineup

Wade Taylor IV (19.1 PPG)
Manny Obaseki (7.0 PPG)
Zhuric Phelps (14.8 PPG at SMU)
Henry Coleman III (8.8 PPG)
Pharrel Payne (10.0 PPG at Minnesota)

12. Auburn Tigers
Previous ranking: 12

Auburn rose in our last update with the return of first-team All-SEC selection Johni Broome up front; he gives Bruce Pearl a legitimate preseason All-American candidate. Furman transfer JP Pegues should get the reins at the point guard spot, with Denver Jones and Chad Baker-Mazara next to him. Pearl could use a bit more up front, though. Chaney Johnson and Chris Moore both saw some starts last season, while Dylan Cardwell would provide a different dimension with his size. Pearl could use a big-time forward from the portal to pair with Broome up front.

Projected starting lineup

JP Pegues (18.4 PPG at Furman)
Denver Jones (9.1 PPG)
Chad Baker-Mazara (10.0 PPG)
Chaney Johnson (4.7 PPG)
Johni Broome (16.5 PPG)

15. Florida Gators
Previous ranking: 15

Florida struck gold in the portal last spring and has already reeled in three transfers this year. The Gators also have All-American candidate, and one of the nation's top scorers, Walter Clayton Jr. -- if he decides to withdraw from the NBA draft -- and Will Richard is a double-figure scorer. Former Florida Atlantic star Alijah Martin will slot in seamlessly. Todd Golden should have plenty of frontcourt options too: Alex Condon and Thomas Haugh are back, while Sam Alexis (Chattanooga) and Rueben Chinyelu (Washington State) have arrived.

Projected starting lineup

Walter Clayton Jr. (17.6 PPG)
Alijah Martin (13.1 PPG at Florida Atlantic)
Will Richard (11.4 PPG)
Alex Condon (7.7 PPG)
Reuben Chinyelu (4.7 PPG at Washington State)

19. Arkansas Razorbacks
Previous ranking: 25

John Calipari doesn't have a full roster yet, but the seven-man squad he has currently is still talented enough to be in the top 20. The Razorbacks landed two of the best players in the portal: Florida Atlantic transfer Johnell Davis, the AAC Player of the Year, and Tennessee transfer Jonas Aidoo, an All-SEC big man. Five-star freshman Boogie Fland is a high-level playmaker in the backcourt and a pair of Kentucky transfers -- Adou Thiero and Zvonimir Ivisic -- could be poised for a breakout campaign.

Projected starting lineup

Boogie Fland (No. 14 in ESPN 100)
Johnell Davis (18.2 PPG at Florida Atlantic)
Karter Knox (No. 26 in ESPN 100)
Adou Thiero (7.2 PPG at Kentucky)
Jonas Aidoo (11.4 PPG at Tennessee)

20. Tennessee Volunteers
Previous ranking: 18

Dalton Knecht is gone, and with him goes Rick Barnes' best offense in several years. But if the more up-tempo, 3-point-heavy offensive system remains in Knoxville, there should be plenty of optimism. Zakai Zeigler is one of the best point guards in the country, and Jordan Gainey, Jahmai Mashack and Hofstra transfer Darlinstone Dubar are plenty experienced on the perimeter. Barnes also addressed the frontcourt, adding Igor Milicic Jr. (Charlotte) and Felix Okpara (Ohio State).

Projected starting lineup

Zakai Zeigler (11.8 PPG)
Jahmai Mashack (4.5 PPG)
Darlinstone Dubar (17.8 PPG at Hofstra)
Igor Milicic Jr. (12.8 PPG at Charlotte)
Felix Okpara (6.6 PPG at Ohio State)

21. Texas Longhorns
Previous ranking: 20

Texas is another school that has had a love-hate relationship with the transfer portal and offseason. Out the door went Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell, while top-50 recruit Cam Scott decommitted. Incoming are Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State) and Jordan Pope (Oregon State). At least three could start. Rodney Terry also landed top-five prospect Tre Johnson, one of the elite scorers in the 2024 high school class. Whether Kadin Shedrick can play with some consistency will be key.

Projected starting lineup

Jordan Pope (17.6 PPG at Oregon State)
Tramon Mark (16.2 PPG at Arkansas)
Tre Johnson (No. 5 in ESPN 100)
Jayson Kent (13.5 PPG at Indiana State)
Kadin Shedrick (7.7 PPG)

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
Interesting Note: If Mark Sears returns to Alabama, the SEC will return six of its Top 10 scorers from last season.

The other five:

Wade Taylor IV (Texas A&M)
Walter Clayton (Florida)
Josh Hubbard (Mississippi State)
Johni Broome (Auburn)
Tramon Mark (Texas)
5:47 PM · May 16, 2024
·

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
The SEC now has 11 of its 16 teams in the ROTHSTEIN 45.

Alabama (2)
Auburn (11)
Texas A&M (12)
Arkansas (13)
Florida (19)
Tennessee (21)
Texas (29)
Mississippi State (31)
Georgia (42)
Kentucky (43)
Ole Miss (44)

2. Alabama (+1500)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Grant Nelson
C Cliff Omoruyi
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon, Jarin Stevenson
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon, Cliff Omoruyi (Rutgers)
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: Mark Sears
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Mark Sears

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Denver Jones
G Chris Moore
F Chad Baker-Mazara
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Chaney Johnson
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

13. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G Johnell Davis
G Karter Knox
F Adou Thiero
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic, Billy Richmond
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox, Adou Thiero (Kentucky)
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Johnell Davis

19. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Will Richard
G Alijah Martin
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Reuben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel
Entered 2024 NBA Draft while retaining eligibility: Walter Clayton, Will Richard

21. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Cameron Carr
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

29. Texas
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Pope
G Tre Johnson
G Tramon Mark
F Jayson Kent
C Kadin Shedrick
Projected Bench: Ze'Rik Onyema, Nicholas Codie, Chendall Weaver, Julian Larry, Malik Presley
Key Newcomers: Tre Johnson, Nicholas Codie, Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State), Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jordan Pope (Texas), Malik Presley (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Ithiel Horton, Max Abmas, Brock Cunningham, Dylan Disu, Dillon Mitchell, Tyrese Hunter

31. Mississippi State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
F Riley Kugel
F RJ Melendez
F Cam Matthews
Projected Bench: Claudell Harris, Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones, Jeremy Foumena, KeShawn Murphy
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College), RJ Melendez (Georgia), Jeremy Foumena (Rhode Island), Riley Kugel (Florida)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

42. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
G Tyrin Lawrence
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery, Somto Cyril
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson), Tyrin Lawrence (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson

43. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Otega Oweh
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry, Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia), Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor (FDU)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner
COVID Seniors with additional eligibility: None

44. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
F Malik Dia
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG)
Key Losses: Allen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
WEEKEND BRUNCH.

- Why the SEC's depth may be unprecedented in 2024-25
- Other things to nosh on

Weekend Brunch: Why the SEC's depth may be unprecedented in 2024-25

It just means more?

That may be the case with SEC basketball during the 2024-25 season.

Just months after this conference had eight teams reach the 2024 NCAA Tournament, things are aligning for the SEC to even have more representation during March Madness in 2025.

As of today, the SEC has 11 of its 16 teams — Alabama, Auburn, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Mississippi State, Georgia, Kentucky, and Ole Miss — ranked in the ROTHSTEIN 45. That doesn't include South Carolina — who made the NCAA Tournament last season — or Oklahoma, who joins the league next year along with Texas after it narrowly missed March Madness a few months ago.

Player retention is a major reason why the SEC looks to be set up for success.

And can this league flirt with 10 bids to the 2025 NCAA Tournament?

Welcome to the new, 16-team SEC.

It still just means more.

[jbcarol]

CBS Sports finally releases updated Top 25 and 1 after latest transfer portal commitments

by: Nick Kosko
•

9. Alabama


Grant Nelson and Latrell Wrightstell are back for the Crimson Tide and Nate Oats. This team made it to the Final Four for the first time and can certainly be in contention...

10. Auburn


Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara and Denver Jones are back for the Tigers next season.

Rest of The Best

11. Texas A&M

16. Tennessee

20. Florida

21. Texas

23. Arkansas

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Way-too-early Top 25 college basketball rankings 7.0: Teams add depth through transfer portal

by: James Fletcher III
•

1. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears*, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson*
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon, Clifford Omoruyi
Key departures: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters

9. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues, Ja'Heim Hudson
Key departures: Jaylin Williams, Aden Holloway, KD Johnson, Tre Donaldson

12. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Key departures: Max Abmas, Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell

18. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton*, Will Richard*, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Key departures: Zyon Pullin, Riley Kugel, Tyrese Samuel

20. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara, Igor Milicic*
Key departures: Dalton Knecht, Santiago Vescovi, Josiah-Jordan James, Jonas Aidoo, Tobe Awaka

22. TA&M
Key returns: Wade Taylor, Andersson Garcia, Henry Coleman, Solomon Washington, Jace Carter, Manny Obaseki, Hayden Hefner
Key additions: CJ Wilcher, Pharrel Payne, Zhuric Phelps
Key departures: Tyrece Radford

24. Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell*, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Key departures: Allen Flanigan

[jbcarol]

@TiptonEdits
NEWS: Georgia Tech transfer Miles Kelly has committed to Auburn, he tells @On3sports.

The 6-6 guard led the Yellow Jackets in scoring this season, averaging 13.9 PTS and 5.5 REB per game this season.

https://on3.com/college/auburn-tigers/news/georgia-tech-transfer-guard-miles-kelly-commits-to-auburn

[jbcarol]

Jon Rothstein
@JonRothstein

The SEC in 2024-25.

[jbcarol]

Kentucky transfer guard DJ Wagner commits to Arkansas

by: Thomas Goldkamp
•

Former Kentucky guard DJ Wagner has committed to Arkansas out of the NCAA transfer portal, according to a report from the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Wagner is a former five-star prospect, according to the On3 Industry Rankings.

His commitment is a significant development for the Razorbacks, who have benefited greatly since hiring coach John Calipari away from Kentucky earlier this offseason. Wagner is the third former Kentucky player to follow Calipari to Arkansas via the transfer portal.

In addition to Wagner, former Wildcats Zvonimir Ivisic and Adou Theiro have also joined the Razorbacks.

In his lone campaign with the Wildcats, DJ Wagner started in 28 of his 29 appearances. He averaged 9.9 points, 3.3 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game while shooting 40.5% from the field and 29.9% from beyond the arc.

Wagner scored a career-high 28 points in Kentucky's 118-82 win over Marshall on Nov. 24. The 6-foot-4 standout was extremely efficient in the blowout, shooting 10-14 from the floor. For his efforts, Wagner was named an All-Southeastern Conference Freshman Team selection and was a three-time SEC Freshman of the Week honoree.

Wagner missed three games in early February due to injury, but came back strong, averaging 11 points in Kentucky's final four games of the regular season.

Even when Wagner battled injury during the season, Calipari was supportive:


"They've done great," John Calipari said. "My job is to help them walk through this. And at the end of the day, is I just want them being their best, and when I'm with them every day, I know what that looks like. But when they're playing against other guys, they know what it looks like, too.

"DJ being hurt and sitting out two and a half weeks really affected him. He's come back. He's better. He's back to where he was. He was the Freshmen of the Week four times, and then he took two-and-a-half weeks off and it's taken him time."

DJ Wagner played high school basketball at Camden (NJ), where he was a five-star prospect. He was the No. 7 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle.

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
SEC teams that will begin next season with NCAA Tournament expectations:

Alabama
Auburn
Texas A&M
Arkansas
Florida
Tennessee
Texas
Mississippi State
Georgia
Kentucky
Ole Miss

Could league push for 10 NCAA Tournament bids in 2025?
10:18 PM · May 26, 2024
·

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Way-too-early Top 25 college basketball rankings 8.0: Arkansas, Auburn add to roster through transfer portal

by: James Fletcher III
•

The transfer portal is closed, but many college basketball teams continue working on their 2024-25 roster as they recruit the remaining players and wait on NBA Draft decisions. Arkansas is among the last teams to put a full rotation together, joining the national conversation

1. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears*, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson*
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon, Clifford Omoruyi
Key departures: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters

8. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues, Ja'Heim Hudson, Miles Kelly*
Key departures: Jaylin Williams, Aden Holloway, KD Johnson, Tre Donaldson

13. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Key departures: Max Abmas, Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell

16. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara, Igor Milicic*, Chaz Lanier*
Key departures: Dalton Knecht, Santiago Vescovi, Josiah-Jordan James, Jonas Aidoo, Tobe Awaka

19. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton*, Will Richard*, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Key departures: Zyon Pullin, Riley Kugel, Tyrese Samuel

23. Arkansas
Key returns: N/A
Key additions: Karter Knox, Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Jonas Aidoo, Johnell Davis*, Zvonimir Ivisic, Adou Thiero, DJ Wagner
Key departures: El Ellis, Jeremiah Davenport, Jalen Graham, Makhi Mitchell, Trevon Brazile, Devo Davis, Keyon Menifield, Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle

24. A&M
Key returns: Wade Taylor, Andersson Garcia, Henry Coleman, Solomon Washington, Jace Carter, Manny Obaseki, Hayden Hefner
Key additions: CJ Wilcher, Pharrel Payne, Zhuric Phelps
Key departures: Tyrece Radford

T-25 Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell*, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Key departures: Allen Flanigan

[jbcarol]

@TheFieldOf68
Which was a more important addition this past weekend:

Chaz Lanier to Tennessee, or DJ Wagner to Arkansas? 🤔

After Dark is LIVE ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://youtube.com/live/s576jW1CZO8

approx. 21:00 mark

[jbcarol]

Breaking down Auburn's likely completed men's basketball roster

By Matt Cohen |

With the weekend commitment of Georgia Tech transfer guard Miles Kelly, Auburn and head coach Bruce Pearl have now filled out the spots from all the key departures off the 2023-24 basketball team.

Gone are transfers Aden Holloway, Tre Donaldson and K.D. Johnson as well as Lior Berman and Jaylin Williams who were out of eligibility. Carter Sobera, a walk-on who earned a scholarship in the middle of the 2023-24 season, will not return next season after his graduation from Auburn. Auburn has now replaced the initial five departures and will likely leave what was Sobera's scholarship open, just as it did last year leaving one spot open heading into the season.

Guards (5)
No. 0 Tahaad Pettiford

Pettiford is Auburn's highest-ranked incoming freshman and the fifth-highest-rated signee in Auburn's history

No. 1 JP Pegues

Auburn brought JP Pegues as its top player out of the transfer portal to take on the starting point guard spot. Pegues comes to Auburn from Furman where he scored 18.4 points per

No. 2 Denver Jones

The only thing Denver Jones is changing is his jersey number from 12 to 2. Jones is locked in as Auburn's shooting guard

No. 10 Chad Baker-Mazara

Baker-Mazara's season ended controversially with his ejection against Yale in Auburn's eventual first-round NCAA Tournament loss. He faced significant backlash

Miles Kelly

Kelly is the newest edition that completes Auburn's roster. Technically, Kelly has not signed with Auburn as of May 28, but assuming he follows through on his commitment, Kelly completes Auburn's search to replace the three guards

Forwards (5)
No. 3 Jahki Howard

Howard is Auburn's second incoming freshman. He'll likely also be in a depth role off the bench

No. 5 Chris Moore

Possibly Auburn's best defensive player, Chris Moore is back for one final season at Auburn. Moore saw his playing time dwindle at the end of the 2023-24

No. 23 Addarin Scott

Auburn brought in Scott as a top junior college transfer last offseason. In his first year at Auburn, Scott was part of Auburn's scout team

No. 31 Chaney Johnson

Chaney Johnson took over as Auburn's starting power forward last season when Jaylin Williams missed time with a knee injury

Ja'Heim Hudson

Because Pearl implicitly showed such a vote of confidence in Johnson, it became difficult to find a transfer portal forward who had Division I experience but also was willing to accept a depth role behind players like Johnson and Auburn's other established big men. Pearl found Hudson

Centers (2)
No. 4 Johni Broome

Broome is Auburn's best player and a returning All-American. He is Auburn's biggest scoring producer. He will likely be Auburn's starting center

No. 44 Dylan Cardwell

Auburn managed to bring back Cardwell too for his final season. Hard to imagine his role changing

The numbers worked out for Pearl.

They always do.

[jbcarol]

The Field of 68
@TheFieldOf68

"I'm big into DJ Wagner to Arkansas. Putting him alongside Nelly Davis in that backcourt is going to be REALLY interesting"

@RobDauster likes the latest addition to the Hogs' roster 👀

WATCH:

[jbcarol]

Jonathan Givony
@DraftExpress
NEWS: Alabama's Jarin Stevenson is withdrawing from the 2024 NBA Draft, a source told ESPN. Alabama will be the No. 1 ranked team in the preseason after returning Sears and Stevenson.

[jbcarol]

Jeff Borzello
@jeffborzello
My enormous roster changes file is completely updated through this morning.

Roster changes for every program in the top five leagues, plus about 20 other notable teams. Departures, returnees, incoming transfers, incoming freshmen.

Alabama Crimson Tide
Departed or expected to depart: Aaron Estrada (13.4 PPG), Rylan Griffen (11.2 PPG), Nick Pringle (6.8 PPG), Davin Cosby (3.6 PPG), Sam Walters (5.4 PPG), Mohamed Wague (3.1 PPG), Kris Parker (redshirt)
In limbo: None.
Expected to return: Grant Nelson (11.9 PPG), Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (8.9 PPG), Jarin Stevenson (5.3 PPG), Mouhamed Dioubate (2.9 PPG), Mark Sears (21.5 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Chris Youngblood (15.3 PPG at South Florida), Houston Mallette (14.7 PPG at Pepperdine), Clifford Omoruyi (10.4 PPG at Rutgers), Aden Holloway (7.3 PPG at Auburn)
Incoming freshmen: Derrion Reid (No. 11 in ESPN 100), Aiden Sherrell (No. 21 in ESPN 100), Labaron Philon (No. 30 in ESPN 100), Naasir Cunningham (No. 62 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Nate Oats

Arkansas Razorbacks
Departed or expected to depart: Tramon Mark (16.2 PPG), Khalif Battle (14.8 PPG), Makhi Mitchell (8.6 PPG), Trevon Brazile (8.6 PPG), Keyon Menifield Jr. (7.9 PPG), Jalen Graham (7.6 PPG), El Ellis (6.5 PPG), Davonte Davis (5.9 PPG), Jeremiah Davenport (5.0 PPG), Layden Blocker (3.7 PPG), Chandler Lawson (3.7 PPG), Joseph Pinion (2.4 PPG), Baye Fall (0.8 PPG), Denijay Harris (0.6 PPG)
In limbo: None.
Expected to return: None
Incoming transfers: Jonas Aidoo (11.4 PPG at Tennessee), Adou Thiero (7.2 PPG at Kentucky), Zvonimir Ivisic (5.5 PPG at Kentucky), Johnell Davis (18.2 PPG at Florida Atlantic), D.J. Wagner (9.9 PPG at Kentucky)
Incoming freshmen: Johnuel Fland (No. 14 in ESPN 100), Karter Knox (No. 26 in ESPN 100), Billy Richmond (No. 38 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: John Calipari

Auburn Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Jaylin Williams (12.4 PPG), K.D. Johnson (7.1 PPG), Aden Holloway (7.3 PPG), Lior Berman (1.7 PPG), Tre Donaldson (6.7 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Johni Broome (16.5 PPG), Chad Baker-Mazara (10.0 PPG), Denver Jones (9.1 PPG), Dylan Cardwell (5.3 PPG), Chaney Johnson (4.7 PPG), Chris Moore (2.5 PPG), Addarin Scott (0.4 PPG)
Incoming transfers: JP Pegues (18.4 PPG at Furman), Miles Kelly (13.9 PPG at Georgia Tech), Ja'Heim Hudson (5.4 PPG at SMU)
Incoming freshmen: Tahaad Pettiford (No. 33 in ESPN 100), Jahki Howard (No. 60 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Bruce Pearl

Florida Gators
Departed or expected to depart: Tyrese Samuel (13.9 PPG), Zyon Pullin (15.5 PPG), Riley Kugel (9.2 PPG), Julian Rishwain (1.6 PPG), Aleks Szymczyk
In limbo: None.
Expected to return: Will Richard (11.4 PPG), Alex Condon (7.7 PPG), Micah Handlogten (5.3 PPG), Thomas Haugh (3.9 PPG), Denzel Aberdeen (3.3 PPG), Kajus Kublickas (0.8 PPG), Walter Clayton Jr. (17.6 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Sam Alexis (10.8 PPG at Chattanooga), Alijah Martin (13.1 PPG at Florida Atlantic), Rueben Chinyelu (4.7 PPG at Washington State)
Incoming freshmen: Isaiah Brown (four-star), Olivier Rioux (NR)

Head coach: Todd Golden

Georgia Bulldogs
Departed or expected to depart: Noah Thomasson (13.1 PPG), Jabri Abdur-Rahim (12.2 PPG), RJ Melendez (9.6 PPG), Justin Hill (9.5 PPG), Russel Tchewa (7.4 PPG), Jalen DeLoach (3.6 PPG), Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe (1.1 PPG), Frank Anselem-Ibe (2.6 PPG), RJ Sunahara (2.0 PPG), Lamariyon Jordan (redshirt)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Silas Demary Jr. (9.7 PPG), Blue Cain (7.4 PPG), Dylan James (4.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Dakota Leffew (17.6 PPG at Mount St. Mary's), Tyrin Lawrence (13.8 PPG at Vanderbilt), De'Shayne Montgomery (13.2 PPG at Mount St. Mary's), Justin Abson (7.9 PPG at Appalachian State), RJ Godfrey (6.1 PPG at Clemson)
Incoming freshmen: Asa Newell (No. 12 in ESPN 100), Somto Cyril (No. 49 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Mike White

Kentucky Wildcats
Departed or expected to depart: Rob Dillingham (15.2 PPG), Antonio Reeves (20.2 PPG), Reed Sheppard (12.5 PPG), Justin Edwards (8.8 PPG), Tre Mitchell (10.7 PPG), D.J. Wagner (9.9 PPG), Adou Thiero (7.2 PPG), Aaron Bradshaw (4.9 PPG), Zvonimir Ivisic (5.5 PPG), Ugonna Onyenso (3.6 PPG), Jordan Burks (1.9 PPG), Joey Hart (1.9 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: None
Incoming transfers: Ansley Almonor (16.4 PPG at Fairleigh Dickinson), Amari Williams (12.2 PPG at Drexel), Koby Brea (11.1 PPG at Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (11.0 PPG at West Virginia), Lamont Butler (9.4 PPG at San Diego State), Otega Oweh (11.4 PPG at Oklahoma), Andrew Carr (13.5 PPG at Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (7.5 PPG at Oklahoma State)

Incoming freshmen: Travis Perry (No. 74 in ESPN 100), Collin Chandler (No. 32 in 2022 ESPN 100), Trent Noah (NR)

Head coach: Mark Pope

LSU Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Jalen Cook (15.6 PPG), Jordan Wright (15.1 PPG), Will Baker (11.0 PPG), Trae Hannibal (7.0 PPG), Carlos Stewart (4.7 PPG), Hunter Dean (4.2 PPG), Mwani Wilkinson (2.1 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Tyrell Ward (9.1 PPG), Jalen Reed (7.9 PPG), Mike Williams III (7.2 PPG), Derek Fountain (5.3 PPG), Daimion Collins (4.3 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Jordan Sears (21.6 PPG at UT Martin), Cam Carter (14.6 PPG at Kansas State), Dji Bailey (10.2 PPG at Richmond), Noah Boyed (JUCO)
Incoming freshmen: Curtis Givens (No. 39 in ESPN 100), Vyctorius Miller (No. 42 in ESPN 100), Robert Miller (No. 86 in ESPN 100), Corey Chest (redshirt)

Head coach: Matt McMahon

Mississippi State Bulldogs
Departed or expected to depart: Tolu Smith (15.0 PPG), Jimmy Bell Jr. (5.0 PPG), Dashawn Davis (6.6 PPG), Shakeel Moore (7.9 PPG), D.J. Jeffries (6.5 PPG), Trey Fort (5.0 PPG), Jaquan Scott (1.2 PPG), Andrew Taylor (3.9 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Josh Hubbard (17.1 PPG), Cameron Matthews (9.4 PPG), KeShawn Murphy (4.7 PPG), Shawn Jones Jr. (4.5 PPG), Gai Chol (2.1 PPG), Adrian Myers (1.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Kanye Clary (16.7 PPG at Penn State), Claudell Harris Jr. (13.7 PPG at Boston College), RJ Melendez (9.6 PPG at Georgia), Michael Nwoko (2.7 PPG at Miami), Riley Kugel (9.2 PPG at Florida), Jeremy Foumena (5.3 PPG at Rhode Island)
Incoming freshmen: Dellquan Warren (No. 78 in ESPN 100), Chol Machot (NR), Eric Paymon (four-star)

Head coach: Chris Jans

Missouri Tigers
Departed or expected to depart: Sean East II (17.6 PPG), Nick Honor (11.1 PPG), Noah Carter (11.0 PPG), Connor Vanover (4.2 PPG), John Tonje (2.6 PPG), Jesus Carralero Martin (2.1 PPG), Jordan Butler (2.0 PPG), Curt Lewis (2.0 PPG), Kaleb Brown (1.0 PPG), Mabor Majak (0.5 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Tamar Bates (13.5 PPG), Caleb Grill (8.4 PPG), Anthony Robinson (3.9 PPG), Aidan Shaw (3.6 PPG), Trent Pierce (1.8 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Marques Warrick (19.9 PPG at Northern Kentucky), Jacob Crews (19.1 PPG at UT Martin), Tony Perkins (14.0 PPG at Iowa), Mark Mitchell (11.6 PPG at Duke), Jeremy Sanchez (2.6 PPG at Saint Leo - D-II), Josh Gray (3.2 PPG at South Carolina)
Incoming freshmen: K. Annor Boateng (No. 31 in ESPN 100), Marcus Allen (No. 71 in ESPN 100), Peyton Marshall (four-star), T.O. Barrett (four-star), Trent Burns (four-star)

Head coach: Dennis Gates

Oklahoma Sooners
Departed or expected to depart: Javian McCollum (13.3 PPG), Otega Oweh (11.4 PPG), Rivaldo Soares (9.4 PPG), Milos Uzan (9.0 PPG), John Hugley IV (8.4 PPG), Le'Tre Darthard (6.7 PPG), Maks Klanjscek (2.0 PPG), Kaden Cooper (1.5 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Jalon Moore (11.2 PPG), Sam Godwin (6.7 PPG), Luke Northweather (2.0 PPG), Yaya Keita (0.8 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Duke Miles (17.5 PPG at High Point), Brycen Goodine (13.9 PPG at Fairfield), Jadon Jones (12.1 PPG at Long Beach State), Kobe Elvis (9.4 PPG at Dayton), Mohamed Wague (3.1 PPG at Alabama), Jeff Nwankwo (JUCO)
Incoming freshmen: Kuol Atak (four-star), Dayton Forsythe (three-star), Jacob Cole (redshirt)

Head coach: Porter Moser

Ole Miss Rebels
Departed or expected to depart: Allen Flanigan (14.8 PPG), Brandon Murray (4.3 PPG), Moussa Cisse (4.5 PPG), Jamarion Sharp (3.3 PPG), Rashaud Marshall (1.4 PPG), Austin Nunez (0.7 PPG), Cameron Barnes, Jacob Gazzo
In limbo: None.
Expected to return: Jaylen Murray (13.8 PPG), Jaemyn Brakefield (12.9 PPG), TJ Caldwell (5.5 PPG), Robert Cowherd (1.0 PPG), Matthew Murrell (16.2 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Dre Davis (15.0 PPG at Seton Hall), Sean Pedulla (16.4 PPG at Virginia Tech), Mikeal Brown-Jones (18.9 PPG at UNC Greensboro), Malik Dia (16.9 PPG at Belmont), Davon Barnes (13.5 PPG at Sam Houston State), Ja'Von Benson (7.2 PPG at Hampton)
Incoming freshmen: John Bol (No. 54 in ESPN 100), Eduardo Klafke (three-star)

Head coach: Chris Beard

South Carolina Gamecocks
Departed or expected to depart: Meechie Johnson (14.1 PPG), BJ Mack (13.6 PPG), Ta'Lon Cooper (9.9 PPG), Josh Gray (3.2 PPG), Stephen Clark (2.2 PPG), Ebrima Dibba
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Collin Murray-Boyles (10.4 PPG), Myles Stute (8.3 PPG), Jacobi Wright (5.9 PPG), Zachary Davis (5.9 PPG), Benjamin Bosmans-Verdonk (2.5 PPG), Morris Ugusuk (2.2 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Jamarii Thomas (16.9 PPG at Norfolk State), Nick Pringle (6.8 PPG at Alabama), Jordan Butler (2.0 PPG at Missouri)
Incoming freshmen: Cameron Scott (No. 37 in ESPN 100), Okku Federiko (NR), Arden Conyers (redshirt)

Head coach: Lamont Paris

Tennessee Volunteers
Departed or expected to depart: Dalton Knecht (21.7 PPG), Josiah-Jordan James (8.4 PPG), Santiago Vescovi (6.3 PPG), Jonas Aidoo (11.4 PPG), Tobe Awaka (5.1 PPG), Freddie Dilione V (1.7 PPG), D.J. Jefferson
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Zakai Zeigler (11.8 PPG), Jordan Gainey (6.8 PPG), Jahmai Mashack (4.5 PPG), J.P. Estrella (1.6 PPG), Cade Phillips (0.9 PPG), Cameron Carr (1.6 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Darlinstone Dubar (17.8 PPG at Hofstra), Felix Okpara (6.6 PPG at Ohio State), Igor Milicic Jr. (12.8 PPG at Charlotte), Chaz Lanier (19.7 PPG at North Florida)
Incoming freshmen: Bishop Boswell (No. 61 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Rick Barnes

Texas Longhorns
Departed or expected to depart: Dylan Disu (15.5 PPG), Max Abmas (16.8 PPG), Tyrese Hunter (11.1 PPG), Dillon Mitchell (9.6 PPG), Brock Cunningham (4.4 PPG), Ithiel Horton (5.9 PPG), Chris Johnson (1.1 PPG), Alex Anamekwe
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Kadin Shedrick (7.7 PPG), Chendall Weaver (6.2 PPG), Ze'Rik Onyema (3.3 PPG), Devon Pryor
Incoming transfers: Tramon Mark (16.2 PPG at Arkansas), Jayson Kent (13.5 PPG at Indiana State), Julian Larry (11.0 PPG at Indiana State), Jordan Pope (17.6 PPG at Oregon State), Malik Presley (2.2 PPG at Vanderbilt)
Incoming freshmen: Tre Johnson (No. 5 in ESPN 100), Nic Codie (No. 76 in ESPN 100)

Head coach: Rodney Terry

A&M Aggies
Departed or expected to depart: Tyrece Radford (16.5 PPG), Eli Lawrence (2.1 PPG), Bryce Lindsay (1.8 PPG), Wildens Leveque (1.6 PPG), Julius Marble (9.1 PPG in 2022-23)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: Wade Taylor IV (19.1 PPG), Henry Coleman III (8.8 PPG), Solomon Washington (7.4 PPG), Manny Obaseki (7.0 PPG), Jace Carter (6.9 PPG), Andersson Garcia (6.0 PPG), Hayden Hefner (5.0 PPG)
Incoming transfers: C.J. Wilcher (7.7 PPG at Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (10.0 PPG at Minnesota), Zhuric Phelps (14.7 PPG at SMU)
Incoming freshmen: Andre Mills (four-star), George Turkson (four-star), Rob Dockery (redshirt)

Head coach: Buzz Williams

Vanderbilt Commodores
Departed or expected to depart: Ezra Manjon (14.7 PPG), Tyrin Lawrence (13.8 PPG), Ven-Allen Lubin (12.3 PPG), Evan Taylor (8.0 PPG), Colin Smith (7.1 PPG), Jason Rivera-Torres (6.4 PPG), Paul Lewis (4.4 PPG), Tasos Kamateros (4.5 PPG), Isaiah West (2.8 PPG), Malik Presley (2.2 PPG), Carter Lang (1.8 PPG), Lee Dort (1.0 PPG)
In limbo: None
Expected to return: JaQualon Roberts (2.3 PPG), Jordan Williams (1.5 PPG)
Incoming transfers: Jason Edwards (19.1 PPG at North Texas), Devin McGlockton (10.2 PPG at Boston College), Grant Huffman (12.8 PPG at Davidson), Chris Manon (12.5 PPG at Cornell), MJ Collins (7.4 PPG at Virginia Tech), Tyler Nickel (8.8 PPG at Virginia Tech), Jaylen Carey (7.0 PPG at James Madison), Kijani Wright (3.9 PPG at USC), A.J. Hoggard (10.7 PPG at Michigan State), Alex Hemenway (5.2 PPG at Clemson)
Incoming freshmen: Karris Bilal (NR), Tyler Tanner (NR)

Head coach: Mark Byington

[jbcarol]

The Field of 68
@TheFieldOf68

Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) drops his TOO EARLY Top 25 Preseason Rankings😮‍💨🔥

What changes would you make to this Top 25?👀⬇️

[jbcarol]

Jon Rothstein
@JonRothstein

An updated version of the ROTHSTEIN 45 is now LIVE.

TOP 10:

1. Alabama
2. Kansas
3. Houston
4. Baylor
5. Iowa State
6. UConn
7. North Carolina
8. Gonzaga
9. Purdue
10. Duke

1. Alabama (+1500 National Championship Odds)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Grant Nelson
C Cliff Omoruyi
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon, Jarin Stevenson
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon, Cliff Omoruyi (Rutgers)
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Miles Kelly
G Denver Jones
F Chaney Johnson
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Ja'Heim Hudson, Chris Moore, Chad Baker-Mazara
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman), Ja'Heim Hudson (SMU), Miles Kelly (Georgia Tech)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

14. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G D.J. Wagner
G Johnell Davis
F Adou Thiero
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox, Adou Thiero (Kentucky), D.J. Wagner (Kentucky)
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle

19. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Alijah Martin
G Will Richard
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel

22. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Chaz Lanier
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey, Cameron Carr
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte), Chad Lanier (North Florida)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

26. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Matthew Murrell
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Ja'Von Benson, Malik Dia
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG), Ja'Von Benson (Hampton)
Key Losses: Matthew MurrellAllen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

32. Texas
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Pope
G Tre Johnson
G Tramon Mark
F Jayson Kent
C Kadin Shedrick
Projected Bench: Ze'Rik Onyema, Nicholas Codie, Chendall Weaver, Julian Larry, Malik Presley
Key Newcomers: Tre Johnson, Nicholas Codie, Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State), Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jordan Pope (Texas), Malik Presley (Vanderbilt)
Key Losses: Ithiel Horton, Max Abmas, Brock Cunningham, Dylan Disu, Dillon Mitchell, Tyrese Hunter

33. State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
F Riley Kugel
F RJ Melendez
F Cam Matthews
Projected Bench: Claudell Harris, Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones, Jeremy Foumena, KeShawn Murphy
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College), RJ Melendez (Georgia), Jeremy Foumena (Rhode Island), Riley Kugel (Florida)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

42. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
G Tyrin Lawrence
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery, Somto Cyril, Jordyn Kee
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson), Tyrin Lawrence (Vanderbilt), Jordyn Kee
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson

43. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Otega Oweh
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry, Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia), Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor (FDU)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner

Pre-Jaxson Robinson

[jbcarol]

@TheFieldOf68
ALABAMA'S ROSTER IS LOADED WITH TALENT🔥👀

How far do you think this team goes?😮‍💨⬇️

[jbcarol]

MEN'S BRACKETOLOGY: 2025 NCAA TOURNAMENT
BY JOE LUNARDI
UPDATED: 5/31/2024 AT 10 A.M. ET

There is no longer an off-season in college basketball. With more than 1,800 Division I players changing teams, the majority of programs are dependent on the transfer portal to stock and re-stock their rosters each spring. The resulting tumult creates wide swings in projected performance for the following year, and we're here to track it for you with monthly bracket updates -- along with this special post-NBA withdrawal edition --

Big Ten
11
SEC
11
Big 12
8
ACC
6
Big East
5

[jbcarol]

Jon Rothstein
@JonRothstein
Alabama blocked 133 shots as a team last season.

Cliff Omoruyi blocked 93.

Of all the reasons why the Crimson Tide are a trendy pick to return to the Final Four in 2025, improved rim protection may be the biggest one.
11:55 AM · Jun 1, 2024
·

[jbcarol]

2025 NCAA Tournament Predictions: Way-too-early bracketology picture entering summer

by: James Fletcher III
•

Projected 1-line: Alabama, Houston, Kansas, UConn
Last four byes: Wisconsin, Maryland, Missouri, Michigan
Last four in: Arizona State, Washington, Oregon, Miami
First four out: Ohio State, SDSU, Mississippi State, South Carolina

South (Atlanta)
Lexington
1 Alabama (SEC) vs. 16 Lipscomb (ASUN)
8 St. John's vs. 9 BYU

Cleveland
5 Florida vs. 12 McNeese State (Southland)
4 Providence vs. 13 Louisiana Tech (CUSA)

Denver
7 Ole Miss vs. 10 Memphis (AAC)
2 Baylor vs. 15 Oakland (Horizon)

1-seed Alabama


Alabama is coming off the first Final Four appearance in program history, and the offseason activity suggests they are charged to get back. Retaining Mark Sears and Grant Nelson while adding impact transfers Clifford Omoruyi and Chris Youngblood are just the start.


East (Newark)
Providence
5 Indiana vs. 12 Samford (SoCon)
4 Tennessee vs. 13 Yale (Ivy)

Raleigh
6 Arkansas vs. 11 Washington/Miami
3 North Carolina vs. 14 Charleston (CAA)


Midwest (Indianapolis)
Wichita
1 Houston (Big 12) vs. 16 South Dakota State (Summit)
8 Kentucky vs. 9 Rutgers
Cleveland
5 Purdue vs. 12 Bradley (MVC)
4 Marquette vs. 13 Arkansas State (SBC)
Milwaukee
6 Texas A&M vs. 11 Michigan
3 Iowa State vs. 14 Toledo (MAC)
Lexington
7 Wake Forest vs. 10 Wisconsin
2 Auburn vs. 15 High Point (Big South)

2-seed Auburn


Auburn brings back Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara and several other role players ready to build on last season's performance. Add in impact freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford with incoming transfers JP Pegues and Miles Kelly to put the Tigers in the mix for the SEC title and a top seed.

West (San Francisco)

Seattle
5 UCLA (Big Ten) vs. 12 Grand Canyon (WAC)
4 Texas vs. 13 UC-Irvine (Big West)

7 Illinois vs. 10 Missouri
2 Gonzaga (WCC) vs. 15 Eastern Washington (Big Sky)

Gonzaga had a down year by the lofty 21st century standards of the program last season, but has rebounded and then some with offseason acquisitions and retention. Michael Ajayi and Khalif Battle enter the mix with Nolan Hickman and Ryan Nembhard in the backcourt while Graham Ike returns...

[jbcarol]

The Field of 68
@TheFieldOf68
Kentucky's RELOADED ROSTER is SCARYYY🔥👀😮‍💨

How do we feel about Mark Pope's 1st UK roster?🤔⬇️

🔗:

[jbcarol]

2024-25 Way-too-early Top 25 college basketball rankings 9.0: Projecting starters after NBA Draft decisions

by: James Fletcher III
•

1. Alabama
Key returns: Mark Sears, Grant Nelson, Latrell Wrightsell, Jarin Stevenson
Key additions: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Naas Cunningham, Aden Holloway, Labaron Philon, Clifford Omoruyi
Projected starters: Mark Sears, Latrell Wrightsell, Chris Youngblood, Grant Nelson, Clifford Omoruyi

Both key Alabama players with an NBA Draft decision to make — Mark Sears and Jarin Stevenson —

8. Auburn
Key returns: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell
Key additions: Tahaad Pettiford, JP Pegues, Ja'Heim Hudson, Miles Kelly*
Projected starters: JP Pegues, Denver Jones, Miles Kelly, Chad Baker-Mazara, Johni Broome

Auburn got a transfer portal commitment from Miles Kelly this week

13. Texas
Key returns: Kadin Shedrick, Chendall Weaver
Key additions: Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Julian Larry, Jayson Kent, Jordan Pope
Projected starters: Jordan Pope, Tre Johnson, Tramon Mark, Chendall Weaver, Kadin Shedrick

16. Tennessee
Key returns: Zakai Zeigler, Jordan Gainey
Key additions: Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara, Igor Milicic, Chaz Lanier
Projected starters: Zakai Zeigler, Chaz Lanier, Jahmai Mashack, Darlinstone Dubar, Felix Okpara

18. Florida
Key returns: Walter Clayton, Will Richard, Alex Condon, Micah Handlogten
Key additions: Sam Alexis, Rueben Chinyelu, Alijah Martin
Projected starters: Walter Clayton, Alijah Martin, Will Richard, Alex Condon, Rueben Chinyelu

22. Arkansas
Key returns: N/A
Key additions: Karter Knox, Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Jonas Aidoo, Johnell Davis*, Zvonimir Ivisic, Adou Thiero, DJ Wagner
Projected starters: DJ Wagner, Johnell Davis, Adou Thiero, Karter Knox, Jonas Aidoo

25. Ole Miss
Key returns: Matthew Murrell, Jaemyn Brakefield, Jaylen Murray, TJ Caldwell
Key additions: John Bol, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Malik Dia, Davon Barnes, Dre Davis, Sean Pedulla
Projected starters: Sean Pedulla, Matthew Murrell, Dre Davis, Jaemyn Brakefield, Malik Dia

[jbcarol]

@JonRothstein
BYU is "in position to be in position".

The Cougars have retooled under Kevin Young and are now ranked 36th in the ROTHSTEIN 45.

CC: @FDSportsbook, @FanDuelResearch.

1. Alabama (+1200 National Championship Odds)
Projected Starting 5:
G Aden Holloway
G Mark Sears
G Latrell Wrightsell
F Grant Nelson
C Cliff Omoruyi
Projected Bench: Derrion Reid, Mouhamed Dioubate, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette, Chris Youngblood, Labaron Philon, Jarin Stevenson
Key Newcomers: Derrion Reid, Aidan Sherrell, Naas Cunningham, Houston Mallette (Pepperdine), Chris Youngblood (South Florida), Aden Holloway (Auburn), Labaron Philon, Cliff Omoruyi (Rutgers)
Key Losses: Aaron Estrada, Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle

11. Auburn
Projected Starting 5:
G JP Pegues
G Miles Kelly
G Denver Jones
F Chaney Johnson
F Johni Broome
Projected Bench: Jahki Howard, Tahaad Pettiford, Dylan Cardwell, CJ Williams, Ja'Heim Hudson, Chris Moore, Chad Baker-Mazara
Key Newcomers: Tahaad Pettiford, Jahki Howard, JP Pegues (Furman), Ja'Heim Hudson (SMU), Miles Kelly (Georgia Tech)
Key Losses: Jaylin Williams, Lior Berman, K.D. Johnson, Tre Donaldson, Aden Holloway

12. A&M
Projected Starting 5:
G Wade Taylor
G Manny Obaseki
F Solomon Washington
F Henry Coleman
C Pharrel Payne
Projected Bench: Andersson Garcia, Hayden Hefner, Tyler Ringgold, Jaelyn Lee, Brandon White, Andre Mills, George Turkson, Jace Carter, CJ Wilcher, Zhuric Phelps
Key Newcomers: Andre Mills, George Turkson, CJ Wilcher (Nebraska), Pharrel Payne (Texas A&M), Zhuric Phelps (SMU)
Key Losses: Tyrece Radford, Wildens Leveque, Eli Lawrence

14. Arkansas
Projected Starting 5:
G Boogie Fland
G D.J. Wagner
G Johnell Davis
F Adou Thiero
C Jonas Aidoo
Projected Bench: Zvonimir Ivisic, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox
Key Newcomers: Johnell Davis (Florida Atlantic), Jonas Aidoo (Tennessee), Zvonimir Ivisic (Kentucky), Boogie Fland, Billy Richmond, Karter Knox, Adou Thiero (Kentucky), D.J. Wagner (Kentucky)
Key Losses: Tramon Mark, Khalif Battle

18. Florida
Projected Starting 5:
G Walter Clayton
G Alijah Martin
G Will Richard
F Alex Condon
C Reuben Chinyelu
Projected Bench: Thomas Haugh, Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis, Denzel Aberdeen, Micah Handlogten (expected to redshirt)
Key Newcomers: Isaiah Brown, Olivier Rioux, Sam Alexis (Chattanooga), Reuben Chinyelu (Washington State), Alijah Martin (Florida Atlantic)
Key Losses: Zyon Pullin, Tyrese Samuel, Julian Rishwain, Riley Kugel

22. Tennessee
Projected Starting 5:
G Zakai Zeigler
G Jahmai Mashack
G Chaz Lanier
F Igor Milicic
C Felix Okpara
Projected Bench: Cade Phillips, Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar, JP Estrella, Jordan Gainey, Cameron Carr
Key Newcomers: Bishop Boswell, Darlinstone Dubar (Hofstra), Felix Okpara (Ohio State), Igor Milicic (Charlotte), Chad Lanier (North Florida)
Key Losses: Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James, Santiago Vescovi, Freddie Dillione, Tobe Awaka, Jonas Aidoo

26. Ole Miss
Projected Starting 5:
G Sean Pedulla
G Jaylen Murray
G Matthew Murrell
G Dre Davis
F Jaemyn Brakefield
Projected Bench: TJ Caldwell, Robert Cowherd, John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Davon Barnes, Mikeal Brown-Jones, Ja'Von Benson, Malik Dia
Key Newcomers: John Bol, Eduardo Klafke, Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss), Dre Davis (Seton Hall), Davon Barnes (Sam Houston), Malik Dia (Belmont), Mikeal Brown-Jones (UNCG), Ja'Von Benson (Hampton)
Key Losses: Matthew MurrellAllen Flanigan, Jamarion Sharp, Brandon Murray, Moussa Cisse

29. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5:
G Kerr Kriisa
G Koby Brea
G Jaxson Robinson
F Andrew Carr
C Amari Williams
Projected Bench: Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Travis Perry, Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor, Otega Oweh
Key Newcomers: Travis Perry, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler (San Diego State), Otega Oweh (Oklahoma), Amari Williams (Drexel), Andrew Carr (Wake Forest), Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State), Koby Brea (Dayton), Jaxson Robinson (BYU), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia), Trent Noah, Ansley Almonor (FDU)
Key Losses: Rob Dillingham, Reed Sheppard, Antonio Reeves, Tre Mitchell, Adou Thiero, Justin Edwards, Aaron Bradshaw, Zvonimir Ivisic, DJ Wagner

33. Texas
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Pope
G Tre Johnson
G Tramon Mark
F Jayson Kent
C Kadin Shedrick
Projected Bench: Ze'Rik Onyema, Nicholas Codie, Chendall Weaver, Julian Larry, Malik Presley, Jamie Vinson
Key Newcomers: Tre Johnson, Nicholas Codie, Jayson Kent (Indiana State), Julian Larry (Indiana State), Tramon Mark (Arkansas), Jordan Pope (Texas), Malik Presley (Vanderbilt), Jamie Vinson
Key Losses: Ithiel Horton, Max Abmas, Brock Cunningham, Dylan Disu, Dillon Mitchell, Tyrese Hunter

34. Mississippi State
Projected Starting 5:
G Kanye Clary
G Josh Hubbard
F Riley Kugel
F RJ Melendez
F Cam Matthews
Projected Bench: Claudell Harris, Adrian Myers, Michael Nwoko, Martavious Russell, Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Eric Paymon, Gai Chol, Shawn Jones, Jeremy Foumena, KeShawn Murphy
Key Newcomers: Dellquan Warren, Chol Machot, Kanye Clary, Eric Paymon, Michael Nwoko (Miami), Claudell Harris (Boston College), RJ Melendez (Georgia), Jeremy Foumena (Rhode Island), Riley Kugel (Florida)
Key Losses: DJ Jeffries, Tolu Smith, Jimmy Bell, Dashawn Davis

44. Georgia
Projected Starting 5:
G Silas Demery
G Blue Cain
G Tyrin Lawrence
F RJ Godfrey
F Asa Newell
Projected Bench: Justin Abson, Dakota Leffew, Dylan James, De'Shayne Montgomery, Somto Cyril, Jordyn Kee
Key Newcomers: Asa Newell, Justin Abson (Appalachian State), De'Shayne Montgomery (Mount St. Mary's), Dakota Leffew (Mount St. Mary's), Somto Cyril, RJ Godfrey (Clemson), Tyrin Lawrence (Vanderbilt), Jordyn Kee
Key Losses: Russel Tchewa, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, RJ Melendez, Noah Thomasson