CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In an exciting matchup during the ACC-SEC Challenge, No. 10 Alabama triumphed over No. 20 North Carolina with a score of 94-79, thanks to standout performances from several players. Mark Sears led the way for the Crimson Tide with 20 points, while both Aden Holloway and Labaron Philon contributed 15 points each, enhancing their team’s season record to 6-2.

Alabama demonstrated impressive depth in scoring, with Clifford Omoruyi and Derrion Reid both adding 11 points and Grant Nelson contributing 10 points. This victory marked the team’s third consecutive win against Top 25 opponents, a notable achievement for the program as it has not occurred in the last three seasons. Compared to last year’s Sweet 16 clash, this game was decisively in Alabama’s favor.

For the Tar Heels, freshman Ian Jackson shone brightly, scoring a season-high 23 points, complemented by RJ Davis’s 18 points and Seth Trimble with 12 points, though the team faced its third consecutive loss, bringing their record to 4-4.

A turning point in the game occurred when Alabama launched a 9-0 run early in the second half, widening their lead to 52-38 and ultimately establishing a comfortable 18-point margin. Despite Sears, a preseason All-America selection, sitting out briefly due to foul trouble in the first half, Alabama managed to maintain a 43-34 lead at halftime without losing momentum.

One of the game’s key statistics was Alabama’s exceptional ability from beyond the arc, as they sunk 12 three-pointers compared to North Carolina’s struggle with just 5 for 28. The Tar Heels’ RJ Davis faced challenges, shooting only 1 for 11 from the field.

As both teams look toward their upcoming games, North Carolina aims to bounce back when they open Atlantic Coast Conference play at home against Georgia Tech this Saturday. Meanwhile, Alabama will prepare to host Creighton on December 14, looking to build on their current winning streak.