TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — In their season opener, the second-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide dominated UNC Asheville, winning with a staggering score of 110-54. Mark Sears stood out for Alabama, contributing 20 points while shooting 75% from the field, including an impressive 75% from beyond the arc.

In his first game with Alabama, Clifford Omoruyi also made a mark, scoring 16 points without missing any of his six attempts, alongside eight rebounds and two blocks. The Crimson Tide showcased a strong offensive performance, with five additional players reaching double digits in scoring. Latrell Wrightsell Jr. contributed 13 points, while Mouhamed Dioubate, Aden Holloway, Jarin Stevenson, and Labaron Philon each added 11, 11, 10, and 10 points respectively.

For UNC Asheville, Jordan Marsh was the top scorer with 13 points, but the team’s performance lagged significantly throughout the match.

A notable takeaway for UNC Asheville was the defensive effort they displayed, forcing Alabama into 10 turnovers, indicating a potential for improved defensive strategies as they head into conference play. In contrast, Alabama’s freshman guard Labaron Philon impressed not only for his scoring but also with nine assists, suggesting he could develop into a vital support for Sears as the season progresses.

One key moment in the game occurred late in the first half when Alabama held UNC Asheville scoreless for six consecutive minutes. This stretch of defensive intensity allowed the Tide to launch a 13-0 run, highlighted by two electrifying dunks from Omoruyi, pushing their lead to over 20 points. This margin remained for most of the game, with only a brief fluctuation in the final seconds of the first half.

Statistically, Alabama boasted a remarkable shooting accuracy, finishing the game with 63.3% from the floor, hitting 38 of their 60 shots, alongside 44.4% from long range with a total of 8 out of 18.

Next on Alabama’s schedule is a home game against Arkansas State on Friday, while UNC Asheville will face Ohio on Saturday.