[More Cowbell]

i actually think it just said there was a chance they could get in but there was the opportunity for other teams to post just as good of records and by pass them...the thing you have to remember is just because they have a good stretch towards the end of the season doesnt mean the rest of the conference is going to go winless...their earlier losses will come back to haunt them if they do not win the SEC tourny....dont get me wrong i want them to get in, but i have to be realistic about it as well...

I think the early-season losses will not carry as much weight as the late-season wins. Remember that the committee always talks about the "record in the last 10 games" as a factor in their decision-making, and if UK wins all but the Tennessee and Vandy contests they will be 8-2 in their last 10 regular-season games., and 11-2 in the last 13.

I don't think the committee is completely beholden to the RPI, as we've seen teams with RPI's in the 60's get in before. If any team could get in with an RPI that low, it's a big name like Kentucky.

So, I don't think they have to win the SEC tourney to get an automatic bid. The opportunities are there to pick up some good wins and impress the selection guys, although I wouldn't recommend a first-round exit from the tourney, either.