SEC Basketball Predictions: Vanderbilt/UNC Asheville and South Carolina/North Greenville

(Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire)

We’re less than a week away from the start of SEC play, with most teams around the conference already starting their preparations for their conference openers.

There are two teams in action on Monday, with Vanderbilt and South Carolina trying to build some momentum before league play begins.

Let’s get to the picks.

Season Predictions Record (straight up): 130-31

UNC Asheville at Vanderbilt – 2 p.m. EST, SEC Network+

The Commodores may have games this season where the offense sputters a little due to the absence of Darius Garland.

However, that shouldn’t happen here against a UNC Asheville team that ranks 333rd in defensive efficiency.

It also doesn’t help that the Bulldogs are 344th in offensive efficiency, which could be problem in trying to keep up with Bryce Drew’s squad.

Prediction: Vanderbilt 82, UNC Asheville 60

North Greenville at South Carolina – 2 p.m. EST, SEC Network+

South Carolina has not been able to find a rhythm thus far this season and currently finds itself in the midst of a four-game losing streak.

Luckily, a matchup against a non-Division I opponent should come in handy at this point, the Gamecocks hoping to get back on track before their SEC opener at Florida on Saturday.

Frank Martin should have his team focused in this one, which will likely allow the Gamecocks to earn a big victory.

Prediction: South Carolina 79, North Greenville 55

For more SEC basketball coverage, follow me on Twitter @theblakelovell.