I have not really been into basketball that much in recent years.
That said, there was a discussion at:

http://csnbbs.com/showthread.php?tid=652240

about having a Tiered Sun Belt Conference.

Better teams playing better teams,
worse teams playing worse teams,
so that the winning better teams RPI or
whatever would be higher.
It's from a CCA thread.

Would that be a good idea?
Would it work to help the better SBC teams
get better invites, and maybe more teams into the big dance?
Are some other conferences using this now? Has it worked?

Tough to say. I do think App matches up better with the Sun Belt in basketball than they do in the SOCON though.

Thought TopStraight's comment was true to most beliefs. Particularly @ loud pep band and giveaways which I was pushing on here a couple of years ago. Think those rewards and recognitions are good things also.

1. Administration that shows leadership and an interest in improving basketball from the president and athletic director on down to the ticket takers.
2.Backing up point #1 with action and dollars.
3.Hire a coach with a GREAT(not good)track record.This may take more money.Be prepared to spend above the SBC average on salary.
4.Improve facilities where possible. Practice areas,academic advisement,weight room,locker room,player lounge area,coaches offices.Go first class when possible or at least paint and put down luxury carpet.On your arena if you cant do a full remodel then do just the lobby or entrance areas.
5.Market to students with giveaways,etc.Get some excitement going.Always have a loud pep band at every home game.
6.Make your schedule as attractive as possible by playing nearby schools for familiarity or rivalry.Limit non-D1 games to one a season.
7.Recruiting excellent players will be possible when the above points are followed.
8.Patience and determination--it may take a few years.Maintain focus on improvement.
9.Garner more support.Sponsers, Booster clubs ,etc.. Get involved yourself wherever you can with donations or at least attendance to games.It takes years of hard work but it can be done with the proper leadership,interest,and support.