Georgia basketball wrapped up the regular season with a flourish, easing the pressure as they head into the SEC Tournament as the No. 7 seed. With a solid 22-9 record and having won five of their last six games, the Bulldogs are eyeing a second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
Their journey continues against No. 15 seed Ole Miss, who boast a 13-19 record, on Thursday night at Bridgestone Arena. Each victory this week not only boosts Georgia's confidence but also enhances their seeding prospects for March Madness.
Currently projected as a No. 7 seed in the 64-team field, the Bulldogs face a potential clash with a No. 2 seed in the second round-a challenge that underscores the intensity of tournament play.
Coach Mike White emphasized staying focused on the immediate task rather than future seedings. After Ole Miss upset Texas on Wednesday, White acknowledged the Rebels' strong performance and stressed the importance of playing to their potential. “If we do that, we’ll have a real chance to advance,” White noted, underscoring the unpredictable nature of tournament play.
Guard Jeremiah Wilkinson echoed this sentiment, focusing on the immediate task and trusting that success will naturally follow. “Hopefully, when we win enough games, all that will take care of itself,” he said.
The winner of this matchup will face No. 2 seed Alabama on Friday, with top-seed Florida lurking on the opposite side of the bracket. “It’s a great opportunity to show the world what we can really do,” Wilkinson added, highlighting the team's determination.
Ole Miss coach Chris Beard, meanwhile, is in "survive and advance" mode, aiming to take it one game at a time and believing in his team's potential to make a run.
For those following the action, Georgia's starting lineup in their last game featured guards Jordan Ross and Blue Cain, forwards Kanon Catchings and Kareem Stagg, and center Somto Cyril. The Bulldogs have been fortunate on the injury front, utilizing 11 players in their rotation recently.
Tipoff against Ole Miss is set for 7 p.m. at Bridgestone Arena, and fans can catch the game on the SEC Network or stream it on Fubo.
As the Bulldogs take the court, they carry with them the momentum from a season filled with high-scoring games and thrilling finishes, including notable victories over Alabama and Mississippi State. With the stakes higher than ever, Georgia is poised to make a statement in the SEC Tournament.