TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama guard Mark Sears entered the matchup against LSU as the team’s leading scorer, boasting the highest average in the Southeastern Conference. However, during the Crimson Tide’s 80-73 victory, he was unable to score and remained on the bench for the entirety of the second half.

Coach Nate Oats explained his decision by stating that they opted to utilize players who were deemed more effective in the second half.

Sears, who was named a preseason All-American and was averaging 19 points per game, had a difficult outing, shooting 0 for 5 from the floor, along with contributing three rebounds, three assists, and two turnovers.

Oats attributed part of the decision to alter the lineup to a lack of consistent defensive performance, particularly in the second half of recent games. “I didn’t think our second-half defense has been very good lately, so we made the point to the guys, we’re done starting the same group that starts the game,” remarked Oats. He noted a significant improvement in defensive play during the second half compared to the first, something the team has struggled with this season.

The focus on enhancing defensive tactics seems to be a key factor in Alabama’s approach moving forward.