Which NCAA conference is associated with teams from the southeastern United States?

The Southeastern Conference, commonly referred to as the SEC, is specifically associated with teams located in the southeastern region of the United States. Formed in 1932, the SEC is known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. The conference includes prestigious schools such as the University of Florida, University of Alabama, and University of Kentucky, among others.

The SEC is recognized for its competitive nature and has a significant presence in NCAA Tournament play, often producing teams that make deep runs in the tournament. This regional designation helps the conference foster rivalries and regional pride, which in turn enhances fan engagement and the overall experience of college basketball.

In contrast to the SEC, the other conferences mentioned in the question represent different geographical areas and institutional characteristics. The Mountain West encompasses teams primarily from the western United States, the Big Ten is based in the Midwestern region, and the American Athletic Conference features teams from a broader geographic area, including teams from both the south and northeastern United States. This makes the SEC distinctly tied to the southeastern states and their respective collegiate teams.