Who to Root for?

The question was raised during Monday’s Gator Basketball Media opportunity. Who should Florida partisans root for Tuesday night when Kentucky visits Vanderbilt? The answer really isn’t clear cut.

Kentucky (6-2) is a half game ahead of Florida for second place in the SEC Eastern Division race. Vanderbilt (5-4) is sitting in fourth place as it begins a crucial four game home stand.

It really comes down to what your priorities are at this stage of the season.

If you are hoping for an SEC title, or at least a first round bye in the SEC Tournament, then a Vanderbilt win would be in Florida’s best interests. It would give Kentucky a third loss in league play and give the Gators an opportunity to move into second place with a win over LSU Wednesday night.

However if you are primarily concerned about the Gators earning a tenth consecutive bid to the NCAA Tournament a Kentucky win serves Florida better. Sure, it makes the Wildcats a stronger NCAA contender with a sixth straight win and the gravitas that goes with the name “Kentucky”. But it also knocks Vandy two losses behind Florida in the SEC race and gives the Gators an opportunity to all but shut the door on the ‘Dores Saturday afternoon in Nashville.

So ask yourself, what matters most? Then pop up a cold one Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. Eastern time and start cheering.

Questions or comments? Contact FightinGators.com's Larry Vettel