The SEC has turned into the powerhouse of college basketball. Last season, the league made history — sending two teams to the Final Four and watching Florida cut down the nets as national champions. While it may not reach quite the same peak in 2025-26, the SEC is still stacked with elite talent, deep rosters, and more star power than almost any other conference.
When you have this much competition, individual brilliance shines even brighter. So, who will separate themselves and land on the All-SEC First Team this season? Let’s take a look.
Otega Oweh, G, Kentucky
Kentucky’s Otega Oweh is one of the most dynamic guards in the country. Last season, he led the Wildcats in scoring at 16.2 points per game, earning Second Team All-SEC honors. A relentless slasher and one of the toughest players to guard downhill, Oweh is poised to take another leap. If he improves even slightly as a shooter, he could become the league’s most dangerous scorer.
Tahaad Pettiford, G, Auburn
Bruce Pearl’s Auburn Tigers made a Final Four run last March, and freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford was a spark off the bench, averaging 11.6 points per game. With the entire starting backcourt gone, the keys to the offense now belong to him. Expect Pettiford to not just score more, but also step into a leadership role. He’s got star potential written all over him.
Alex Condon, F, Florida
Florida’s championship run last season wouldn’t have been possible without Alex Condon. The forward averaged 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds while holding down the paint for the Gators. Now, with a year of experience under his belt, Condon is expected to become the anchor of one of the best frontcourts in the nation. His blend of size, toughness, and consistency makes him a lock for SEC recognition.
Karter Knox, Wing, Arkansas
Don’t be surprised if Arkansas’s Karter Knox makes the biggest sophomore leap in the conference. The younger brother of former Kentucky star Kevin Knox averaged 8.3 points per game as a freshman but consistently flashed NBA-level talent. With more responsibility this season, Knox could emerge as both Arkansas’s go-to scorer and one of the SEC’s breakout stars. Scouts are already circling him as a potential lottery pick.
Labaron Philon, G, Alabama
Alabama guard Labaron Philon averaged 10.6 points per game last season, but his role is about to explode. With veteran Mark Sears gone, Nate Oats’ up-tempo, perimeter-oriented offense now runs through him. Philon has the green light to take as many shots as he wants — and if he lives up to the hype, he could push close to 20 points per game while keeping Alabama firmly in SEC contention.
Honorable Mention: Josh Hubbard, G, Mississippi State
If there’s one player capable of shaking up this list, it’s Josh Hubbard. The Mississippi State guard averaged 18.9 points per game last season, proving he’s one of the most fearless shot-takers in college basketball. His challenge? Efficiency. If Hubbard improves his three-point percentage, he could easily elevate from honorable mention to First Team status.
