The NCAA Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men’s Basketball is one of the most competitive and prestigious leagues in college basketball. It features 14 of the top teams in the country, including perennial powerhouses like Kentucky, Florida, and Tennessee. Each year, these teams compete for the SEC title and for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
The SEC also produces some of the best individual talent in the nation, with former players like Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Anfernee Hardaway coming from the conference. The SEC is a conference that is sure to produce thrilling basketball action and plenty of excitement.
1. Walker Kessler
Career
- High school: Woodward Academy, (College Park, Georgia)
- College: , North Carolina (2020–2021), Auburn (2021–2022)
- NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
- Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Utah Jazz
- Third-team All-American – AP, USBWA (2022), Naismith Defensive Player of the Year (2022), NABC Defensive Player of the Year (2022), SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), SEC All-Defensive Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2020), Nike Hoop Summit (2020), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2020)
Walker Kessler was born on July 26, 2001, in Atlanta, Georgia, and played his high school basketball at Woodward Academy. He attended North Carolina for two seasons before transferring to Auburn where he would play for one year and finish as the runner-up of the 2021 SEC Championship.
In the 2022 NBA draft, Walker was selected 22nd overall by the Utah Jazz and has since appeared in 50 games off the bench averaging 3 points per game. Walker Kessler was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft.
Walker Kessler played college basketball at Georgia and was a three-time First Team All-SEC selection.
Walker Kessler has excelled both offensively and defensively during his professional career, earning multiple accolades along the way including AP Third-Team All-American, USBWA Defensive Player of the Year, NABC Defensive Player of the Year, SEC Defensive Player of the Year, and Mr. Georgia Basketball.
2. Kennedy Chandler
Guard
Career
- High school: , Briarcrest Christian School, (Eads, Tennessee), Sunrise Christian Academy, (Bel Aire, Kansas)
- College: Tennessee (2021–2022)
- NBA draft 2022 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
- Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
- 2022–present: Memphis Grizzlies
- 2022–present: →Memphis Hustle
- Second-team All SEC (2022), SEC All-Freshman Team (2022), SEC tournament MVP (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021), 2× Tennessee Mr. Basketball (2019, 2020)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2021 Latvia: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- FIBA Under-19 World Cup
- : 2021 Latvia: Team
Kennedy Chandler was a standout point guard for Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He played college basketball for Tennessee and was drafted by the Grizzlies in 2022.
Kennedy Chandler is an exciting player who will be key to Memphis' success in the NBA. Kennedy Chandler was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft.
The 6'9" forward from Memphis played two seasons at Indiana University before transferring to Memphis for his final year. Chandler averaged 12 points and six rebounds per game as a senior at Indiana, earning All-SEC honors and being named SEC tournament MVP.
He has spent most of his career playing with Memphis, where he's averaged 7 points and four rebounds over 82 appearances (all starts).
3. Jabari Smith Jr.
Power forward
Career
- High school: Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Georgia)
- College: Auburn (2021–2022)
- NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
- Selected by the Houston Rockets
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Houston Rockets
- Consensus second-team All-American (2022), Wayman Tisdale Award (2022), NABC Freshman of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), SEC Freshman of the Year (2022), SEC All-Freshman Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2021), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2021)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship, : 2019 Brazil: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship
- : 2019 Brazil: Team
Jabari Smith Jr. was born in 2003 and is 19 years old at the time of this writing. He attended Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia before playing college basketball for Auburn from 2021-22 season.
Jabari was selected 3rd overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2022 NBA draft, making him one of their most highly touted players to date.
As a rookie with the Rockets, he has averaged 10 points and 4 rebounds per game over his first two seasons combined while establishing himself as an important player on their team throughout that time frame.
In 2023-24 season, Jabari had an excellent year statistically averaging 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game – earning him All-NBA Third Team recognition along the way.
Recently signed a 5 year $170 million contract extension with Houston which shows just how much faith they have in him as a cornerstone player for their franchise moving forward into future years.
4. Oscar Tshiebwe
Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Mountain Mission School, (Grundy, Virginia), Kennedy Catholic, (Hermitage, Pennsylvania)
- College: , West Virginia (2019–2021), Kentucky (2022–present)
- National college player of the year (2022), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award (2022), Pete Newell Big Man Award (2022), Consensus first-team All-American (2022), NCAA season rebounds leader (2022), SEC Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-SEC (2022), Second-team All-Big 12 (2020), SEC All-Defensive Team (2022), Big 12 All-Newcomer Team (2020), McDonald's All-American (2019), Nike Hoop Summit (2019)
Oscar Tshiebwe is a young center from DR Congo who will be playing for the Kentucky Wildcats in 2022. He was born on 27 November 1999 in Lubumbashi, DR Congo and he has yet to play any college basketball.
At 6' 9" (2.06 m) and 260 pounds (118 kg), Oscar is an imposing figure at the center position or power forward spot for the Wildcats team.
Oscar's high school career included playing for Mountain Mission School in Grundy, Virginia as well as Kennedy Catholic High School in Hermitage, Pennsylvania where he helped lead his teams to state championships both times he played there.
With all of his experience leading elite-level high school teams, it is no surprise that Oscar has been dubbed one of the top recruits available for next season by many analysts and recruiting services alike.
5. Colin Castleton
Florida Gators men's basketball
Career
- High school: Father Lopez Catholic, (Daytona Beach, Florida)
- College: , Michigan (2018–2020), Florida (2020–present)
- 2× Second-team All-SEC (2021, 2022)
Colin Castleton is a 22-year old center / power forward from Florida Gators. He was named to the SEC All-Freshman team in 2018 and also averaged 5.8 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assists per game that year.
In 2019, he has been averaging 9 points, 6 rebounds and 1 assist per game for the Gators so far this season. Colin Castleton is an American of English descent.
Who played basketball at Pembroke Pines High School in Florida before enrolling at University of Michigan in 2019 where he plays for their men's basketball team under head coach John Beilein.
His father Mark Castleton played college football for Boston College while his mother Lori Castleton competed as a synchronized swimmer with United States national teams Colin Castleton is a talented linebacker for the Florida Gators.
He was named to the SEC All-Freshman team in 2018 and has continued to improve over the years. Colin Castleton is known for his explosiveness and ability to make tackles in space.
In 2020, he was named First-team All-SEC after leading the conference with 129 total tackles. Colin Castleton has a bright future ahead of him as he continues to develop his skills as an athlete.
6. Nick Smith
Career
- High school: , Sylvan Hills, (Sherwood, Arkansas), North Little Rock, (North Little Rock, Arkansas)
- College: Arkansas (2022–present)
- McDonald's All-American (2022), Jordan Brand Classic (2022), Nike Hoop Summit (2022)
Nick Smith Jr. is an American point guard and shooting guard who plays for the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Southeastern Conference. Nick Smith was born on April 18, 2004 in Sylvan Hills, Arkansas and attended high school at Sylvan Hills.
As a senior at Sylvan Hills, Smith averaged 23 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals per game en route to being named first-team all-state as well as second-team All-District 26 honoree by The Associated Press.
In addition to playing basketball for Sylvin Hills, Nick also played football and ran track & field during his prep career; he finished fourth in state with a time of 10:09 seconds in the mile run event as a junior and helped lead.
Sylvan Heights to its third consecutive state championship appearance in 2006 while averaging 21 points per contest during his sophomore year (2005–06).
Following high school graduation, Smith committed to attend college basketball powerhouse Kentucky Wildcats but later changed his mind after visiting campus; he instead signed with the Razorbacks on March 27th 2013 shortly before.
Their National Signing Day ceremony where he became only the fifth player ever from Arkansas' Class of 2013 (joining Austin Wiley (2012), Terrence Jones (2007), Marquise Lee (2006) & Dominique Wilkins(1995)).
While attending Kentucky's summer camp prior to his freshman season under head coach John Calipari—Smith broke both ankles suffered playing against North Broward Prep School’s varsity team.
He decided again that he wanted to play for Dave Van Horn at Arkansas rather than sit out another year due to NCAA transfer rules; following surgery on both legs which sidelined him for almost eight months (#11/12 Freshman – 31/03/14 - #1/04/14).
Nick returned from injury ranked ninth nationally amongst returning players according to ESPN Recruiting Nation entering preseason competition averaging 12 shots made per game off the dribble including 3rd most three pointers attempted behind Justise Winslow (#12) & Emmanuel Mudiay (#15).
During SEC play beginning January 5th 2014 through February 22nd 2014 —nick scored 20+ points seven times including 28 versus Auburn which tied Michael Jordan’s single season scoring record at Carolina University.
Nick then tallied 30+ points twice more within conference action leading up into Final Four weekend becoming just 2nd player ever (& 1st since Oscar Robertson over 50.
7. Jaden Shackelford
Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Hesperia High School, Hesperia, (Hesperia, California)
- College: Alabama (2019–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Oklahoma City Blue
- Second-team All SEC (2022), Second-team All-SEC – Coaches (2021), SEC All-Freshman Team (2020)
Jaden Shackelford is a 21-year-old American point guard and shooting guard who played college basketball for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He was drafted by the Oklahoma City Blue in the third round of the 2018 NBA G League Draft.
In July 2018, he signed with BC Prievidza of Slovakia's Liga A (Burgas Champions). On October 10, 2018, he made his debut for Oklahoma City Blue against Austin Spurs as a starter and recorded 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting, four rebounds, three assists and two steals in 38 minutes off the bench.
It was also noted that he had one block and fouled out in 36 minutes played. On January 2nd 2019 Jaden scored 19 points on 7/15 FGs including 5 triples to lead Oklahoma City Blue over Reno Bighorns 122–113 at home.
This game led him to be named MVP of both games during their week-long homestand which concluded with a 144–132 win at Arkansas Razorbacks on New Year's Eve night where he set another new personal best scoring average at 28 ppg on 43% 3FG%.
As of February 14th 2019 Jaden has averaged 24 PPG (53%) 4 RPG (11%), 6 APG (16%), 1 SPG (.545), and 1 BPG (.667) while playing 41 MPG over 8 games averaging 34 mins per game starting all 9 contests leading OKC into first place in their division.
8. Jahvon Quinerly
Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball
Career
- High school: Hudson Catholic, (Jersey City, New Jersey)
- College: , Villanova (2018–2019), Alabama (2020–present)
- SEC tournament MVP (2021), McDonald's All-American (2018)
Jahvon Quinerly is a talented point guard for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He was a key player on their team during the 2017-2018 season, and he is expected to be a major contributor in 2018-2019 as well.
Jahvon Quinerly has an impressive resume, including two years of playing for USA Basketball's Under-17 Team and one year with the U18 National Team. He attended Seton Hall Prep School in Hackensack, New Jersey before joining the Alabama Crimson Tide basketball program.
Jahvon Quinerly has been praised by many analysts as one of the top prospects in college basketball, and he looks poised to have an outstanding career at Alabama Jahvon Quinerly was a consensus five-star prospect and the No. 1 player in New Jersey for his class of 2018, according to 247Sports.
Quinerly averaged 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals per game as a senior at Hudson Catholic High School in Jersey City, NJ. He announced on National Signing Day that he would be attending Villanova University next season.
In his freshman year at Villanova, Quinerly led the Wildcats in scoring with 18 points per game while also grabbing six rebounds and dishing out three assists on average throughout the season.
As a sophomore this past year, he registered 17 points per game (on 50% shooting from the field) along with eight rebounds and four assists; additionally.
He shot 43% from 3-point range en route to being named Big East Rookie of the Year honors by coaches and media members alike after helping lead Villanova to their first conference title since 1985 (the year before Quinerly was born).
In 2020–21 Quinerly became just the sixth player ever in NCAA history to score 2K18 triple-doubles: 20 pts, 10 rebs, 10 asts; additionally had 7 pts./rebound/assist vs Marquette — both single games & career highs.
9. Jabri Abdur-Rahim
Career
- High school: , Seton Hall Prep, (West Orange, New Jersey), Blair Academy, (Blairstown, New Jersey)
- College: , Virginia (2020–2021), Georgia (2021–present)
- Jordan Brand Classic (2020)
Jabari Abdur-Rahim is an American small forward who played college basketball for the Georgia Bulldogs. Jabari was born on March 22, 2002 in Mountain View, California and raised in Atlanta, Georgia.
He attended North Springs High School where he averaged 27 points per game as a senior before being named to the All-USA First Team by MaxPreps and receiving offers from several Division I schools including Kentucky, Arizona State and UCLA.
He chose to play at Georgia instead of those other schools after meeting with head coach Rick Majerus and assistant coach Kenny Payne during a summer basketball camp in his home state of California.
Abdur-Rahim has since developed into one of the best young players in NCAA history and was eventually drafted second overall by Milwaukee Bucks in 2017 NBA draft after averaging 21 points per game over three seasons with the Bulldogs.
10. John Calipari
Clarion Golden Eagles men's basketball
Career
- 1978–1980: UNC Wilmington
- 1980–1982: Clarion
- Position(s): Point guard
- 1982–1985: Kansas (associate assistant)
- 1985–1988: Pittsburgh (assistant)
- 1988–1996: UMass
- 1996–1999: New Jersey Nets
- 1999–2000: Philadelphia 76ers (assistant)
- 2000–2009: Memphis
- 2009–present: Kentucky
John Calipari is the current head coach of Kentucky, where he has led the Wildcats to 379 wins over 108 seasons. Calipari played point guard at UNC Wilmington and Clarion and then spent three years as an assistant coach at Kansas.
In 1988, he took over as head coach of UMass and led the Minutemen to an NCAA Tournament appearance and a Final Four appearance. Calipari left UMass after two seasons to become the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, where he won the NBA Championship in 2001.
He was then hired as the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats in 2002 and has led them to unprecedented success.
In November 2014, he was granted a contract extension that will keep him at Kentucky through the 2024 season. Calipari is a two-time NBA Coach of the Year and a nine-time NBA All-Star.
He is also a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Calipari has written several books, including his latest, which is about coaching and life.
11. Wendell Green Jr.
Career
- High school: , Detroit Country Day, (Beverly Hills, Michigan), La Lumiere, (La Porte, Indiana)
- College: , Eastern Kentucky (2020–2021), Auburn (2021–present)
- First-team All-OVC (2021), OVC All-Newcomer Team (2021)
Wendell Green Jr. is a sophomore point guard for the Auburn Tigers. He has been a starter for two seasons and is expected to continue to be a key player for the Tigers.
Green was a key player for Detroit’s St. John’s Prep team, which won a state championship in his sophomore season. He was also a McDonald’s All-American. Green signed with the Auburn Tigers as a top-50 player in the 2018 class.
He has averaged 10.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game in his two seasons as a starter. Green is also a valuable member of the Tigers’ varsity basketball team. He was a part of the team that won the SEC regular season and tournament titles in 2019.
Green is a strong shooter from the floor, with a shooting percentage of 50 percent from three-point range. Green is a versatile player who can play both guard positions.
He is set to graduate from Auburn in 2022 with a degree in business. Green is expected to be a top-10 pick in the upcoming NBA draft.
12. Josh Gray
Career
- High school: , Washington-Marion, (Lake Charles, Louisiana), Christian Life (Houston, Texas), Wheatley (Houston, Texas)
- College: , Texas Tech (2012–2013), Odessa (2013–2014), LSU (2014–2016)
- NBA draft: 2016 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2016–present
- 2016–2018: Northern Arizona Suns
- 2018: Phoenix Suns
- 2018: Northern Arizona Suns
- 2018–2019: Changwon LG Sakers
- 2019–2020: New Orleans Pelicans
- 2019–2020: →Erie Bayhawks
- 2021: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 2021–2022: Long Island Nets
- 2022: Portland Trail Blazers
- 2022–2023: Lokomotiv Kuban
- 2023–present: Real Betis
- NBA G League Scoring Leader (2020)
Josh Gray played college basketball for LSU. Gray was a standout player at both high school and college. Gray was drafted by the Coosur Real Betis in the 2017 NBA draft.
Gray has played in Liga ACB for the past two seasons. Gray is a point guard who is known for his passing skills. Gray is a versatile player who can play both on the floor and off of it.
Gray has committed to play for the Kentucky Wildcats in the 2019-2020 season. Gray is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Gray is a talented player who is looking to continue his success in the NBA.
Josh Gray was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school and was selected with the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft by the Phoenix Suns. Gray has played for three teams in the NBA - the Northern Arizona Suns, Phoenix Suns, and now Real Betis.
Gray has played in over 100 games in the NBA and has averaged 5.7 points and 2.3 rebounds. Gray is a very good outside shooter, making over 40% of his 3-point shots in the NBA. Gray is an athletic player who is capable of playing both the center and power forward positions.
Gray has had some injury problems in the past, but is expected to return to play in the upcoming season. Gray is a hard worker and is constantly improving his game. He is a candidate for the 2019-2020 season Rookie of the Year award.
13. Eric Musselman
Career
- 1983–1987: San Diego
- 1989–1990: Rapid City Thrillers
- 1990–1991: Minnesota Timberwolves (assistant)
- 1991–1997: Rapid City Thrillers/Florida Beach Dogs
- 1995–1996: Florida Sharks
- 1998–2000: Orlando Magic (assistant)
- 2000–2002: Atlanta Hawks (assistant)
- 2002–2004: Golden State Warriors
- 2004–2006: Memphis Grizzlies (assistant)
- 2006–2007: Sacramento Kings
- 2010–2011: Reno Bighorns
- 2011–2012: Los Angeles D-Fenders
- 2012–2013: Arizona State (assistant)
- 2013–2014: Arizona State (assoc. HC)
- 2014–2015: LSU (assoc. HC)
- 2015–2019: Nevada
- 2019–present: Arkansas
- 1988–1989: Rapid City Thrillers (GM)
Musselman is in his sixth season as head coach of Arkansas and has led the Razorbacks to a record of 86-34 (.717).
Musselman played professional basketball for the San Diego Clippers from 1983-1987 and then served as an assistant coach with the Rapid City Thrillers and the Minnesota Timberwolves from 1990-1991.
Musselman was named head coach of Arkansas in 2009 and has led the team to six SEC championships and four NCAA Tournament appearances.
Musselman is one of only four coaches in NCAA history to lead their team to 400 or more victories in their first four seasons. Musselman is paid a salary of $4.275 million per year by Arkansas.
Eric Musselman was born on November 19, 1964, in Ashland, Ohio. Musselman has been a head coach at both the college and professional levels. He was most recently the head coach of the Nevada team in the NCAA.
Musselman is known for his up-tempo style of play which has helped him win numerous games. Musselman also has a strong coaching record in the NBA, most notably with the Golden State Warriors.
Musselman is currently the head coach of the Arkansas team.
14. KJ Williams
Murray State Racers men's basketball
Career
- High school: , East Side, (Cleveland, Mississippi), Cleveland Central, (Cleveland, Mississippi)
- College: , Murray State (2018–2022), LSU (2022–present)
- OVC Player of the Year (2022), 3× First-team All-OVC (2020–2022)
KJ Williams is a 23-year-old American power forward who plays for LSU Tigers in the SEC. Williams was born on September 3, 1999, in Cleveland, Mississippi.
He is 6'10" and weighs 245 lbs. Williams attended East Side High School in Cleveland, Mississippi and was a three-sport star in basketball, football, and track and field.
In his senior year of high school, Williams led East Side to the state championship game and was named MVP of the Mississippi All-Star game. Williams decided to play college basketball at LSU, where he is a key player for the Tigers.
Williams has averaged 10.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game over the course of his career at LSU. Williams is a versatile player who can play both power forward and center. Williams is a member of the United States national team and was a part of the 2017 FIBA World Cup championship team.
15. Josiah-Jordan James
Career
- High school: Porter-Gaud School, (Charleston, South Carolina)
- College: Tennessee (2019–present)
- McDonald's All-American (2019), South Carolina Mr. Basketball (2019)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2018 Canada: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing the United States
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2018 Canada: Team
Josiah-Jordan James was born on September 5, 2000 in Charleston, South Carolina. He played high school basketball at Porter-Gaud School. James was a two-time All-State selection and was named to the Associated Press All-America First Team as a senior.
James played for the Tennessee Volunteers in the SEC. He averaged 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game over his three-year career. James declared for the NBA draft following his junior season and was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 27th overall pick.
James has played for the Jazz, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Memphis Grizzlies. He was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in February of 2019.
James is currently a member of the Washington Wizards. Josiah-Jordan James is a young player with a lot of potential. He has shown great skills both on and off the court.
James was a McDonald's All-American, and he was also named South Carolina Mr. Basketball. He has a lot of experience playing against top competition and has shown that he is a valuable player.
James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. He will be a key player for Tennessee next season.
James is a hard worker, and he is always working on his game. He is looking to continue his success at Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level. He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season.
James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. He will be a key player for Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level.
He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season. James is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside.
He will be a key player for Tennessee next season. James is a player with a lot of potential, and he is looking to continue his career at the highest level. He is a valuable player for Tennessee and will be a key player for the team next season.
16. Santiago Vescovi
Career
- College: Tennessee (2019–present)
- First-team All-SEC (2022)
Santiago Vescovi is a 21-year-old point guard from Uruguay who is currently a junior at Tennessee. Vescovi is a prolific scorer, averaging 17.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game this season.
Vescovi was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2018 and was a Second Team All-SEC selection in 2019.
Vescovi is a key player for the Volunteers in their quest for an SEC championship. Santiago Vescovi is a Uruguayan footballer who currently plays for Nashville SC in the USL.
Santiago Vescovi has previously played for college sides Tennessee and Akron. Santiago Vescovi has made a significant impact for Nashville SC this season, scoring four goals and adding one assist. Santiago Vescovi is a versatile footballer who can play as a winger or a striker.
Santiago Vescovi is likely to become a regular in the Uruguayan national team in the future. Santiago Vescovi is a promising young footballer who is set to make a significant impact in the USL and on the international stage in the future.
17. Bruce Pearl
Career
- 1982–1986: Stanford (assistant)
- 1986–1992: Iowa (assistant)
- 1992–2001: Southern Indiana
- 2001–2005: Milwaukee
- 2005–2011: Tennessee
- 2014–present: Auburn
Bruce Pearl is the current head coach of Auburn and he has been with the school since 2014. Pearl has a 182-103 record in his nine seasons as head coach.
Pearl is considered one of the best coaches in college basketball history and he has led Auburn to some impressive wins. Pearl is a defensive specialist and he has led Auburn to a number of top-10 finishes in the AP Poll.
Pearl is scheduled to retire at the end of the 2019 season. Bruce Pearl is the current head coach of the Auburn Tigers.
He has been with the program since 2007, and has led the Tigers to a number of championships, including three NCAA Division I Regional Finals (in 2019, 2018, and 2017), as well as a National Championship in 2017.
Pearl is also well-known for his work with the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. He was the head coach of the team from 2010 to 2014, leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013.
In addition, Pearl has been a part of several other successful coaching careers. He was an assistant coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2003 to 2007, and was the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies from 2008 to 2010.
18. Scotty Pippen Jr.
Vanderbilt Commodores men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Pine Crest School, (Fort Lauderdale, Florida), Sierra Canyon, (Chatsworth, California)
- College: Vanderbilt (2019–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2022–present: →South Bay Lakers
- 2× First-team All-SEC (2021, 2022), SEC All-Freshman Team (2020)
Scotty Pippen Jr. is a 20-year-old point guard who will play for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2020 NBA season. Pippen Jr. played high school basketball at Pine Crest School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
He was a four-year starter for the varsity squad and helped the team reach the state semifinals in his senior year. Pippen Jr. was ranked No. 14 in the 2020 NBA draft by ESPN. He signed with the Lakers and will continue his basketball career in the United States.
Pippen Jr. is a quick and agile player who can step up and score in crucial moments. He is a hard worker who puts in long hours in the gym to improve his game. His father, Scotty Pippen, was a 12-time All-Star and two-time MVP for the Chicago Bulls.
Pippen Jr. is looking to build on the success of his father and become one of the best point guards in the NBA.
19. Iverson Molinar
Career
- High school: , Oaks Christian School, (Westlake Village, California), Covenant Christian Ministries Academy, (Marietta, Georgia), Veritas Prep, (Calabasas, California)
- College: Mississippi State (2019–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Wisconsin Herd
- First-team All-SEC (2022)
Iverson Molinar was born on December 3, 1999 in Panama City, Panama. Molinar played high school basketball at Oaks Christian School in Westlake Village, California.
Molinar is a shooting guard and point guard. Molinar was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the 2018 NBA G League Draft. Molinar is currently playing for the Wisconsin Herd of the NBA G League.
Iverson Molinar is a 2021 basketball player from Covenant Christian Ministries Academy in Marietta, Georgia. Molinar is a 2021 NBA draft prospect andUndrafted player. Molinar is a 2022–present player with the Wisconsin Herd in the NBA D-League.
Molinar is a 6'4" shooting guard and has played for the United States Junior National Team. Molinar is a highly skilled player with the ball and is known for his explosiveness. Molinar is a great scorer and passer, and is a key part of the Wisconsin Herd's offense.
Molinar is a hard worker and is always hustling on the court. Molinar is a great role model for young players and is an excellent student. Molinar is a talented player who has a bright future in basketball.
20. John Fulkerson
Career
- High school: , Dobyns-Bennett, (Kingsport, Tennessee), Christ School, (Arden, North Carolina)
- College: Tennessee (2016–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–Present: Leuven Bears
- Second-team All-SEC – Coaches (2020)
John Fulkerson is an American power forward who currently plays for the Leuven Bears in the BNXT League. Fulkerson was born in Kingsport, Tennessee on April 29, 1997.
In high school, Fulkerson played for the Leakeville Chargers. As a junior at Leakeville, Fulkerson averaged 16.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.5 assists per game.
In his senior year, Fulkerson averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 assists per game. Fulkerson signed with the Memphis Hustle prior to the 2019 season. On January 8, 2019, Fulkerson was traded to the Leuven Bears.
Fulkerson has played in 57 games for the Hustle and Leuven Bears, averaging 10.5 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game. Fulkerson is currently contracted to the Bears until the end of the 2021 season.
21. Davonte Davis
Career
- High school: , Jacksonville Lighthouse, (Jacksonville, Arkansas), Jacksonville, (Jacksonville, Arkansas)
- College: Arkansas (2020–present)
Davonte Davis is a talented point guard and shooting guard for the Arkansas Razorbacks. He has helped lead the team to a 9-4 record this season and is looking to help Arkansas make a run in the SEC tournament.
Davonte Davis was born in Jacksonville, Arkansas in 2001. He played his high school basketball at Jacksonville High School before playing two years of college basketball at the University of Arkansas.
Davonte Davis is a talented point guard and shooting guard who is looking to help Arkansas make a run in the SEC tournament.
He has averaged 16.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season. Davonte Davis is a 21-year-old American point guard and shooting guard who is currently playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Davonte Davis is a 2020 Arkansas basketball player who is known for his athleticism and scoring ability. Davis was a high school star in Jacksonville, Arkansas, and was recruited by several colleges, including Arkansas.
Davis is a versatile player who can play both inside and out. Davis has had a successful career so far, playing in 79 games and averaging 14.8 points and 5.1 rebounds. Davis is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
Davis is a team player who is always looking to help his team win. Davis is a young player who has a lot of potential to continue to improve his skills. Davis is a prospect who is worth watching in the future.
Davonte Davis is a player who is sure to become a household name in the 2020 basketball season.
22. Sahvir Wheeler
Career
- High school: Houston Christian, (Houston, Texas)
- College: , Georgia (2019–2021), Kentucky (2021–present)
- 2× Second-team All-SEC (2021, 2022)
Wheeler is a two-time All-American and was named SEC Player of the Year in 2018. He was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft.
In his two years at Kentucky, Wheeler helped lead the Wildcats to back-to-back SEC Championships and a NCAA Tournament berth. He is a native of Harlem, New York and played high school basketball at La Lumiere School in western Pennsylvania.
Wheeler is known for his speed and agility on the court, as well as his ability to create his own shot. He is a passionate advocate for social justice, and has lent his voice to the campaign to boycott Nike over its support of the Trump administration.
Wheeler is one of the most decorated players in Kentucky history, and is set to become the school’s all-time leading scorer. He is a member of the United States National Team and was part of the team that won the gold medal at the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Wheeler is married to Hannah and has two young sons.
23. K.D. Johnson
Career
- High school: , Southwest DeKalb, (Decatur, Georgia), Hargrave Military Academy, (Chatham, Virginia)
- College: , Georgia (2020–2021), Auburn (2021–present)
- SEC All-Freshman Team (2021)
K.D. Johnson is a shooting guard for Auburn in the 2018-2019 season. Johnson was born on May 25, 2001, in Phoenix, Arizona. He is of American nationality.
Johnson is listed at 6'0" and 204 pounds. Johnson played high school basketball for Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. Johnson helped lead Bishop Gorman to a 29-3 record and a Nevada state championship in his senior year.
Johnson was named to the All- Nevada First Team as a shooting guard and was also named to the All-Western Nevada Second Team.
Johnson attended Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, and played for the Tigers in the 2018-2019 season. Johnson has made two appearances in the NCAA Tournament, as a freshman (2017) and a sophomore (2018).
Johnson is a 2020 graduate of Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Virginia. Johnson is a two-time All-American and a two-time SEC champion. Johnson was a first-team All-American in 2021 and was the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy.
Johnson is the first player to win both the Heisman and the SEC Championship in the same season. Johnson was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Johnson has also played for the Dallas Cowboys and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Johnson has set several NFL records, including most rushing yards in a season (2,243 in 2018).
Johnson is married to his wife, Jordan, and they have two children. Johnson is a philanthropist and has donated millions of dollars to various charities.
24. Kellan Grady
Career
- High school: Catholic Memorial, (Boston, Massachusetts), Northfield Mount Hermon, (Northfield, Massachusetts)
- College: , Davidson (2017–2021), Kentucky (2021–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Grand Rapids Gold
- 2× First-team All-Atlantic 10 (2019, 2021), 2× Second-team All-Atlantic 10 (2018, 2020), 3x Catholic Conference All Star, 2015 Massachusetts State Champion
Kellan Grady is a shooting guard for the Grand Rapids Gold in the NBA G League. He was born on September 11th, 1997 in West Roxbury, Massachusetts and attended Catholic Memorial High School.
At Northfield Mount Hermon, he averaged 21.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game as a senior. Grady played college basketball at Kentucky, where he averaged 10.5 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in 2017-2018.
He was the SEC Player of the Year and a First-Team All-American. Grady was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft. He signed with the Golden State Warriors as an undrafted free agent but was waived shortly after.
He then signed with the Grand Rapids Gold. Grady is a prolific scorer, averaging 21.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game in the NBA G League. He has also played for the United States national team at the 2018 FIBA World Cup and the 2019 FIBA AmeriCup.
25. Tyler Ulis
Phoenix Suns
Career
- High school: Marian Catholic, (Chicago Heights, Illinois)
- College: Kentucky (2014–2016)
- NBA draft 2016 / Round: 2 / Pick: 34th overall
- Selected by the Phoenix Suns
- Playing career: 2016–2020
- 2016–2018: Phoenix Suns
- 2016: →Northern Arizona Suns
- 2018: Chicago Bulls
- 2018: →Windy City Bulls
- 2019–2020: Stockton Kings
- Consensus first-team All-American (2016), Bob Cousy Award (2016), SEC Player of the Year (2016), SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2016), First-team All-SEC (2016), SEC All-Freshman Team (2015), SEC tournament MVP (2016), McDonald's All-American (2014)
Tyler Ulis attended high school at Marian Catholic in Chicago Heights, Illinois. Ulis was a two-time All-American at Kentucky, and was the 2016 SEC Player of the Year.
Ulis was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 2016 NBA draft, and started his playing career with the team in 2016. Ulis signed a four-year contract with the Suns in September 2016.
Ulis averaged 10.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game in his rookie season. In 2017, Ulis averaged 12.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. In 2018, Ulis averaged 16.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
In 2019, Ulis averaged 21.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. Ulis is currently an assistant coach with the Kentucky Wildcats. Tyler Ulis is a former consensus first-team All-American and SEC Player of the Year who was drafted in the first round by the Phoenix Suns in 2016.
Ulis is a versatile guard who can score in a variety of ways, including from the perimeter and inside the paint. He has been a key player for the Phoenix Suns since joining the team in 2016 and is expected to be an important part of the Chicago Bulls' rotation this season.
Ulis has been a consistent scorer throughout his career and is expected to help lead the Windy City Bulls to the playoffs this season.
Ulis is a versatile player who can play both shooting guard and small forward positions, making him a valuable asset on any team. Ulis is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game, which makes him a valuable member of any team.
Ulis is a versatile player who can play both shooting guard and small forward positions, making him a valuable asset on any team. Ulis is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game, which makes him a valuable member of any team.
Ulis is an important part of the Phoenix Suns' rotation and is expected to help the team make a playoff run this season.
26. Myreon Jones
Career
- High school: , Huffman, (Birmingham, Alabama), Lincoln Academy, (Suwanee, Georgia)
- College: , Penn State (2018–2021), Florida (2021–present)
Jones is a two-time All-SEC performer for the Florida Gators. Jones was considered a top prospect out of high school and was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons.
Jones averaged 13.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game for the Gators in 2018-19. Jones is the son of former NBA player Mychal Jones. Jones is a member of the United States men's national basketball team.
Jones will play college basketball for Penn State in 2020. Myreon Jones is an American football cornerback for the Florida Gators. He played college football at Penn State. Jones was a five-star recruit and the No. 3 cornerback in the nation by ESPN.
Jones was a two-time All-American and the 2017 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. He was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award and the Paul Hornung Award.
Jones was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He has also played for the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Rams.
Jones was named a First Team All-American by Sports Illustrated and a Second Team All-American by the Associated Press.
He has been selected to the PFWA All-American Team, the Walter Camp All-America Team, and the Sporting News All-America Team. Jones has also been named to the 2018 Pro Football Writers of America All-NFL Team.
27. Isiaih Mosley
Career
- High school: Rock Bridge, (Columbia, Missouri)
- College: , Missouri State (2019–2022), Missouri (2022–present)
- 2× First-team All-MVC (2021, 2022), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2019)
Isiah Mosley is a sophomore shooting guard for the Missouri Tigers in the SEC. He was born on May 3, 2000, in Macon, Missouri. Mosley is American and listed at 6'5" and 194 pounds.
Mosley has yet to play in a NCAA Tournament game, but he has played in eight SEC Tournament games. Mosley averaged 15.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game in SEC play this season.
Mosley is a potential first round draft pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Mosley has been compared to players like Jimmy Butler and Klay Thompson. Mosley is a two-time SEC Player of the Week. Mosley is a two-time SEC Freshman of the Year.
Mosley is a high school basketball standout for the Rock Bridge High School Eagles. As a senior, he averaged 23.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Mosley was named first-team all-MVC and was named Missouri Mr. Basketball.
Mosley played two seasons at Missouri State, averaging 18.8 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He was named second-team All-American by the Associated Press. Mosley was named the 22nd overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2018 NBA draft.
He has since been traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. Mosley was named the 2018-19 NBA Rookie of the Year. Mosley has represented the United States at the 2019 FIBA World Cup and the 2019 Pan American Games.
Final Words
The NCAA Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men’s Basketball is one of the most competitive and prestigious conferences in the United States. There are several great players who have represented the SEC in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Some of the best players in SEC Men’s Basketball history include Tim Duncan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant.
