SEC basketball 2026-27 preseason poll: Alabama, Georgia overrated; LSU, Missouri underrated

Key Points:

• Florida is the overwhelming favorite to win the SEC and is expected to be ranked No. 1 in the preseason AP Top 25, returning four starters from a strong NCAA Tournament team.
• Texas is predicted to finish second in the SEC preseason poll and is expected to be ranked inside the AP Top 10, following a Sweet 16 appearance in Sean Miller's first season.
• Missouri is considered the most underrated team in the SEC, potentially a top-five contender if Mark Mitchell's eligibility is cleared, bolstered by the addition of five-star guard Jason Crowe Jr.
• Alabama is viewed as overrated at fifth place due to strong offensive potential but less overall talent compared to teams ranked just below them; a breakout season from Amari Allen is critical for them to meet expectations.
• LSU is another underrated team projected to finish 14th, with significant roster eligibility questions, but possesses enough talent to potentially outperform this ranking if key players are cleared to play.