Player of the Week
Nate Ament, Tennessee Volunteers
Nate Ament made school history this past week, earning a program-record fourth Freshman of the Week honor. With the stretch he’s currently on, more recognition could be on the way. The freshman forward has helped lead Tennessee to a four-game winning streak, averaging 24.5 points and 6.8 rebounds during that span. His most impressive performance came against Ole Miss, where he scored 26 of his 28 points in the second half to power the Volunteers to an 84-66 victory.
Who’s Hot
Alex Condon, Florida Gators
In a highly anticipated matchup, Alex Condon led the Florida Gators to a convincing 100-77 win over Alabama. Condon sliced through the Crimson Tide defense, tying a season high with 25 points while adding six assists. On the defensive end, he remained disruptive with seven rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. At 6’11”, 230 pounds, Condon impacts the game in a variety of ways, doing most of his damage by generating efficient scoring opportunities around the paint.
Tennessee Volunteers
In recent weeks, Tennessee has defeated several of the SEC’s top teams, including Alabama, Georgia, Auburn, and Texas A&M. Now ranked No. 25 at 16-6, the Volunteers are expected to climb further in the polls with no ranked opponent until February 21. While Nate Ament has been the headline performer, the supporting contributions from Jakobi Gillespie, J.P. Estrella, and Jaylen Carey have been critical. With an explosive and cohesive core, Tennessee has regained strong momentum entering the final month of the regular season.
Otega Oweh, Kentucky Wildcats
After an injury-plagued start to the season, Kentucky has surged back into contention behind the leadership of Otega Oweh. The Wildcats, once 9-6, now sit at 16-7 and third in the SEC. With several teammates sidelined, Oweh has carried a heavy load, totaling 48 points and 11 rebounds over his last two games while shooting 16-for-23 from the field. His production has been the driving force behind Kentucky’s rise in the conference standings.
Who’s Not
South Carolina Gamecocks
Even with strong individual production from Meechie Johnson, the Gamecocks’ struggles have continued. South Carolina has lost seven of its last eight games and is now tied with Oklahoma for last place in the SEC. Despite Johnson’s 56 combined points over the past two contests, the offense ranks near the bottom of the conference, averaging just 77.3 points per game.
Amari Allen, Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama suffered a season-worst 23-point loss to Florida, largely due to its inability to contain the Gators’ frontcourt. Freshman forward Amari Allen struggled defensively against Florida’s size and had a difficult night offensively as well, scoring just five points while shooting 1-for-5 from three. Although he bounced back in the following game, the performance against Florida remains a concern.
Top 5 Guards in the SEC
5. Otega Oweh, Kentucky Wildcats
After limited roles during his time at Oklahoma, Oweh has emerged as one of the SEC’s top scorers since transferring to Kentucky. Averaging 17 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, he has become the emotional leader and primary offensive engine for a motivated Wildcats group.
4. Tyler Tanner, Vanderbilt Commodores
Vanderbilt’s breakout season has been fueled by the play of Tyler Tanner, who is averaging 17.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. Despite standing 6’0”, he consistently attacks the paint and leads the Commodores with 52 steals, bringing toughness and playmaking to both ends.
3. Josh Hubbard, Mississippi State Bulldogs
One of the most reliable scorers in college basketball, Hubbard is averaging 20.8 points per game and has recorded multiple 30-point performances this season, continuing his reputation as a high-volume offensive threat.
2. Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas Razorbacks
In a loaded freshman class, Acuff has separated himself as a standout, earning six SEC Freshman of the Week honors before February. He leads No. 21 Arkansas with 20.3 points and 6.2 assists per game, showcasing advanced shot creation and scoring instincts.
1. Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama Crimson Tide
Among the SEC’s elite offensive talent, Philon leads both Alabama and the conference with 21.4 points per game. His scoring ability has produced several explosive outings, including a career-high 32 points against Mississippi State, solidifying his status as one of the top guards in the league and a rising NBA prospect.