Vanderbilt is set to face off against Kentucky in the quarterfinals of the Southeastern Conference Tournament, and despite Kentucky being a stronger team, Vanderbilt is the more desperate team as the Commodores find themselves on the outside looking in at the NCAA Tourney. With 19 wins, Vanderbilt’s only shot at making the tournament is by winning the SEC, and two wins over Kentucky in two weeks could also catch the attention of the Selection Committee.
According to ESPN’s Bracketology, Vanderbilt has climbed their way into the “Next Four Out” category, with seven other teams standing in the way of a bid. While Vanderbilt has an impressive record with four Quad 1 wins and five Quad 2 wins, their anchor is their two Quad 3 losses and a single Quad 4 loss, which has put them at No. 82 in the NCAA NET rankings used by the Selection Committee.
Vanderbilt has won eight of its last nine games, and their goal is to win the SEC Tournament and secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. They will face a tough opponent in Kentucky, whom they defeated 68-66 on March 1. However, Vanderbilt will be without their leading scorer Liam Robbins, who suffered a broken foot in the victory over Kentucky. This has allowed Vanderbilt to re-invent themselves into a quick, guard-oriented team that can spread the floor and beat most defenders off the bounce.
Vanderbilt coach Jerry Stackhouse acknowledges that Kentucky has a talented team with Oscar Tshiebwe presenting a load for them. However, he believes that if Vanderbilt competes, plays well, executes their game plan, and assignments on both ends of the floor, they can beat anyone. Vanderbilt’s confidence comes from their other dominant forces, including Tyrin Lawrence, Jordan Wright, Ezra Manjon, and Myles Stute.
The game between Vanderbilt and Kentucky will be a battle of competitors, and both teams will come out prepared. While Vanderbilt’s goal is to win the SEC Tournament, Kentucky will be looking to continue their strong play after their recent victory over Arkansas. It remains to be seen which team will come out on top, but one thing is certain – Vanderbilt will be fighting desperately for their chance to make the NCAA Tournament.
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