PC's CBB Corner 3 24-25: Week 6

Dude…

We are closing in on finals week, so basketball will slow down here coming up. However, we had some entertaining games and some crazy upsets before break hits. The SEC is on top. The Big 12 is lacking. Who is the best of the best? Find out in this week’s corner 3!

SEC Prowless- The SEC continues to prove why it is the best conference in college basketball, showcasing depth, talent, and dominance across the board. The conference is on pace to secure double-digit bids to the NCAA Tournament, bolstered by signature wins and standout performances. Arkansas made a stunning comeback to defeat Michigan, while Alabama's victory over Creighton was led by Mark Sears, who dropped 27 points and has the team firing on all cylinders. To solidify their position as the top team in the SEC, Grant Nelson and Clifford Omoruyi will need to step up. Texas A&M impressed with a neutral-site win over #11 Purdue in Indianapolis, led by Wade Taylor IV’s resurgence alongside Zhuric Phelps and Pharrell Payne, who combined for 15 points and anchored their stellar defense. Kentucky also delivered an inspiring comeback victory over Louisville, with Lemont Butler exploding for 33 points and Coach Pope excelling in his first year. Auburn dominated Ohio State behind National Player of the Year candidate Johni Broome’s incredible 22-point, 20-rebound performance. Tennessee edged Illinois in a thriller, thanks to Jordan Gainey’s electrifying 23 points off the bench, including a coast-to-coast layup to seal the win. The SEC’s dominance is undeniable, and its teams are proving they’re built to succeed on college basketball’s biggest stage. The SEC will be a gauntlet in their own conference schedule, and the winner of the conference will be the favorite to win the National Championship.

BIG 12?- The Big 12 has struggled to live up to its usual high standards this season, with several marquee programs underperforming against top competition. Kansas, typically a powerhouse, managed a win against NC State but suffered key losses to Creighton and Missouri. Baylor sits at an underwhelming 6-3, with losses to UConn and Tennessee exposing their vulnerabilities. Arizona has been particularly disappointing at 4-5, including a tough loss to UCLA. Houston, a team expected to contend nationally, is also 6-3, with defeats against Alabama, Auburn, and San Diego State showing their inconsistency. The lone bright spot for the conference has been Iowa State, boasting a 9-1 record with their only loss coming in overtime to Auburn in Maui. While the Cyclones have been a beacon of hope, the Big 12 as a whole has lacked the dominance and depth expected from what is often considered one of the best basketball conferences.

IS Uconn back?- UConn has re-established itself as a legitimate contender for a third consecutive national championship, rebounding strongly after an 0-3 showing in Maui. The Huskies have been on a tear, securing impressive wins against top-tier opponents. They defeated Gonzaga on a neutral site, and took down #15 Baylor as well as a solid Texas team in a hostile road environment. Liam McNeely has been fantastic, showcasing his all-around game and big-time playmaking ability. Alex Karaban has emerged as the heart and soul of the team, leading the Huskies’ resurgence with poise and consistency. Meanwhile, Solo Ball has become a deadly three-point weapon, blossoming into a key contributor and giving UConn a dynamic edge on the perimeter. With a balanced roster firing on all cylinders, UConn has once again proven it has the talent and leadership to make another deep tournament run. Dan Hurley may have the Huskies back, and should always be in consideration for a deep NCAA Tournament run.

PC’s Top 5

1. Tennessee

2. Auburn

3. Iowa State

4. Kentucky

5. Duke