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SEC basketball 2020-2021: 5 bold predictions – Can Kentucky reclaim their crown?

By Cody Williams

Jan 29, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari reacts during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari reacts during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /
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Tennessee Volunteers (Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports) /

SEC basketball Coach of the Year: Rick Barnes, Tennessee

If awards in college basketball were handed out 100 percent honestly, particularly in the coaching ranks, we would likely see Kentucky’s John Calipari win the award every year. The consistency of the Wildcats under his watch means he’s undoubtedly deserving, especially considering the unique challenge of getting young players to coalesce each season.

But that’s not the way these things work as Coach of the Year is often a narrative-driven award that doesn’t necessarily go to the head coach of the best team. Subsequently, it feels as if Tennessee’s Rick Barnes has a leg up on the rest of the coaches in the league to take home the award for the 2020-2021 season.

Tennessee has undoubtedly been successful under Barnes, winning the conference three years ago and making it to the Sweet 16 the next year. However, this iteration of the Vols might be the best team on his watch, at least in terms of talent. There’s a blend of youth and experience that should prove valuable for the program this season.

Kentucky is the clear favorite to win the SEC this season but Tennessee is the team with the best chance to challenge them for the crown. Barnes should be given his due credit for that as the Volunteers should be in line for one of the best seasons in program history.