Alabama opens its basketball season as a leading contender in the Southeastern Conference, with strong aspirations to break the league’s national title drought in men’s basketball. Under the guidance of coach Nate Oats, the second-ranked Crimson Tide is ready to meet the expectations placed upon them, bolstered by the return of Mark Sears and Grant Nelson, along with several promising newcomers who have quickly secured starting positions. Their season kicked off impressively with a 110-54 victory against UNC Asheville, marking a successful start for a team that recently celebrated its first Final Four appearance.
The team’s roster is impressive, enhanced by one of the nation’s top recruiting classes and significant transfers. The last SEC team to clinch a national championship was Kentucky, led by John Calipari, back in 2012. Alabama was among nine SEC teams featured in the preseason Top 25, making it clear that while they stand out, they are not the only potential challengers entering the season.
“I believe we have a very talented squad,” Oats commented before their opening game. “Our boys have worked hard and earned the spotlight, but being highly ranked preseason doesn’t always mean success in the regular season. We possess skill, but talent alone doesn’t ensure victories or high-level basketball; yet we do have it. Expectations are high based on our achievements over the last four years.”
Alabama previously held the top seed in the NCAA Tournament two seasons ago. Currently, they have a preseason All-American in Sears, who contributed 20 points in their debut. Both Sears and Nelson decided to return for another season instead of pursuing professional careers, and the team showcased three new faces in their starting lineup against UNC Asheville.
While the opening game was a success, the real test will come in tougher competitions. The debut of former Rutgers player Clifford Omoruyi was notably impactful; he scored 16 points and secured eight rebounds in just 19 minutes of play, remaining perfect with his shooting. Freshmen Labaron Philon (10 points and nine assists) and Derrion Reed (nine points and six rebounds) also had significant contributions, while Auburn transfer Aden Holloway added 11 points without any turnovers.
Alabama’s schedule features increased challenges beginning with a matchup against No. 14 Purdue on November 15. After leading the nation in scoring last season, the team still demonstrates plenty of offensive capabilities, yet they are focused on enhancing their defensive game, a priority highlighted in the offseason.
“We know we can score, but strong defense will make it easier to score,” returning guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. stated following the game. “Our goal is to get stops that lead to transition opportunities. We aim to prove that we can defend effectively.” Oats also noted that Houston Mallette, a transfer from Pepperdine, along with freshman Naas Cunningham, will sit out this season as redshirt players.
Lastly, Alabama anticipates the return of South Florida transfer Chris Youngblood, who was recognized as the co-player of the year in the American Athletic Conference, projected to be back from an injury by mid-December.