The SEC Tournament is reaching its climax as teams battle for a chance to advance to March Madness. With Selection Sunday looming, the Florida Gators are aiming to continue their impressive run. The Gators, who struggled earlier in the season, have turned things around and are looking to claim another national title.
Gators’ Hot Streak and SEC Title
Florida’s journey has been one of resurgence. After falling out of the national rankings in early January, the team found its rhythm. They ended the season with an 11-game win streak and secured their first regular-season SEC title since 2014.
Now, they face Vanderbilt in the SEC Tournament semifinal. Their previous encounter this year was a high-scoring affair, with Florida winning 98-94. Five Florida players scored 14 or more points in that game.
Vanderbilt’s Path to the Semifinal
Vanderbilt’s quarterfinal victory over Tennessee saw Duke Miles score 30 points. Tyler Tanner also proved a difficult matchup for the Volunteers. However, Florida’s size could pose a challenge for Vanderbilt in the semifinal.
SEC Tournament Semifinal Matchups
The semifinal between Florida and Vanderbilt is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET. The second semifinal will feature Arkansas against Ole Miss at 3 p.m. ET. Ole Miss is the first No. 15 seed to reach the semifinal.
Arkansas Advances to Face Ole Miss
Arkansas secured their spot in the SEC tournament semifinals. They defeated Oklahoma, with Darius Acuff Jr. scoring 37 points. Acuff also contributed five rebounds, five assists, and three steals.
Oklahoma’s Xzayvier Brown made a layup to cut Arkansas’ lead, but Maleek Thomas hit free throws to extend the lead again. Nijel Pack missed a shot from deep, sealing the win for Arkansas.
The winner of the Florida versus Vanderbilt game will face the winner of the Arkansas versus Ole Miss game in the championship. The championship game is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET.