NICEVILLE, Fla. — In an impressive performance, Zaay Green scored 17 points and dished out six assists, while Essence Cody contributed 15 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead the No. 23 Alabama women’s basketball team to a decisive 73-39 victory over Clemson in the Bay Bracket of the Emerald Coast Classic on Tuesday.
The dynamic duo of Green and Cody was instrumental in Alabama’s success, finishing with a combined total of 14 field goals made. In stark contrast, Clemson struggled significantly, managing only 12 successful shots out of 47 attempts, resulting in a mere 26% shooting percentage. As the game progressed, the Tigers’ offensive woes deepened, with them converting just one of ten attempts in the final quarter.
Alabama, fresh off a commanding 83-33 win against Alabama State the previous day, showcased their defensive prowess by limiting the Hornets to single-digit scores in the first, third, and fourth quarters. This stellar defensive effort continued against Clemson, as they restricted the Tigers to only 14 points in the first half of their matchup.
The Crimson Tide quickly established dominance, opening the game with the first four points and maintaining the lead throughout. Clemson managed a brief 5-0 run that cut the deficit to 32-19 midway through the third quarter, but it was the highest point of momentum they would achieve.
Additional contributions came from Aaliyah Nye, who tallied 14 points, and Sarah Ashlee Barker, who finished with 13 points, along with five rebounds, four assists, and five steals, for Alabama, increasing their season record to 8-0.
In the first half, Green was particularly effective, scoring 12 points, while Cody added nine, allowing Alabama to head into halftime with a solid 29-14 lead. For Clemson, Mia Moore served as the only player to reach double figures, finishing with 11 points.
Looking ahead, Alabama will return to their home court to face Georgia State on Monday. Meanwhile, Clemson will prepare to host Kennesaw State in their next matchup on Sunday.