Player of the Week
Amari Allen, Alabama
With three straight wins, Alabama has worked its way back into the SEC race. While much of the attention has gone to standout scorer Labaron Philon Jr., freshman Amari Allen has played a major role in the surge. In the Crimson Tide’s most recent win over Ole Miss, Allen delivered one of his most complete performances of the season with 13 points, eight rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and three steals. Along with providing interior impact, Allen has also stretched the floor, knocking down six of his last 10 three-point attempts.
Who’s Hot
Rueben Chinyelu, Florida
Rueben Chinyelu isn’t just regarded as one of the best defenders in the SEC, but in the entire country. He is averaging 11.8 rebounds per game, tied with Kent State’s Delrecco Gillespie for the national lead. Over his last three appearances, the 265-pound center has totaled an impressive 53 rebounds. Chinyelu’s powerful frame allows him to control the paint defensively while also finishing efficiently on offense, shooting 60 percent from the field. With his imposing presence on both ends, he continues to build significant NBA intrigue.
Florida Gators
With a month remaining before the conference tournament, Florida is beginning to separate itself as the team to beat. The Gators sit at 18-6 and atop the SEC after winning their last three games against Alabama, Texas A&M, and Georgia by a combined 62 points. The frontcourt trio of Rueben Chinyelu, Thomas Haugh, and Alex Condon has anchored a dominant defensive presence, combining for 26 rebounds and three blocks per game. When guards Xaivian Lee and Boogie Fland provide offensive rhythm, Florida’s overall balance becomes difficult to match.
Trent Pierce, Missouri
In a late-night thriller, Trent Pierce led Missouri to an 86-85 win over Texas A&M. The 6’10”, 225-pound wing created matchup problems all night, finishing with a season-high 23 points along with nine rebounds and two assists. With the victory marking the Tigers’ third straight, Missouri now sits at 17-7 and fourth in the SEC.
Who’s Not
Texas A&M Aggies
Thursday’s loss to Missouri capped a disappointing stretch for Texas A&M, which has now dropped three straight games. Two of those losses came by fewer than three points, making the skid particularly frustrating. Close losses can take a mental toll, and with a matchup against No. 19 Vanderbilt ahead, the Aggies will need to regroup quickly for what projects as a high-scoring contest.
Patton Pinkins, Ole Miss
After a strong freshman campaign overall, Patton Pinkins struggled in Ole Miss’ loss to Alabama. In a game where the Rebels needed production across the board, he finished with just five points on 2-of-9 shooting. Pinkins is averaging 8.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists this season. With his 6’5”, 200-pound frame and long-term upside, one quiet outing shouldn’t derail his progress.
Top 5 Most Impactful Transfer Players in the SEC
5. Duke Miles, Vanderbilt
A veteran of multiple programs, Duke Miles has brought leadership and stability to a young Vanderbilt team that sits at 20-4. Alongside Tyler Tanner and Tyler Nickel, he has helped power one of the SEC’s most efficient offenses. Averaging 16.6 points per game, Miles has emerged as a reliable secondary scorer while also leading the conference with 2.8 steals per game.
4. Jeremiah Wilkinson, Georgia
After earning ACC Sixth Man of the Year honors as a freshman, Wilkinson has maintained his scoring impact in a new environment. The sophomore guard is averaging 17.1 points while shooting 41.9 percent from the field and leads Georgia in both scoring and steals.
3. Dailyn Swain, Texas
The Xavier transfer has developed into one of the SEC’s most versatile performers, leading Texas in nearly every major category with averages of 17.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.9 steals. The change of scenery has unlocked his all-around impact.
2. Keyshawn Hall, Auburn
Despite Auburn’s uneven season, Keyshawn Hall has delivered elite individual production. He ranks fourth in the SEC at 20.7 points per game while also contributing 6.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists. The 6’7” forward has been the program’s most consistent offensive presence.
1. Jakobi Gillespie, Tennessee
After leaving Maryland’s “Crab Five,” Gillespie has become the engine of Tennessee’s offense. While NBA prospect Nate Ament draws attention, Gillespie drives the team’s nightly production, leading the Volunteers with 18.5 points, 5.3 assists, and 1.5 steals. His chemistry with Ament gives Tennessee one of the most dangerous offensive duos in the SEC.