Alabama Edges North Dakota in High-Scoring Affair

GRAND FORKS, N.D. — In a thrilling matchup, No. 6 Alabama narrowly defeated North Dakota 97-90 on Wednesday night, thanks in part to standout performances from Grant Nelson, Mark Sears, and Labaron Philon. Nelson, returning to his home state, contributed 23 points and secured 10 rebounds, but it was Treysen Eaglestaff who stole the spotlight with a career night for the Fighting Hawks, scoring 40 points and hitting eight three-pointers.

Despite a sluggish start, Alabama showed resilience, particularly in the second half where they shot an impressive 59% from the floor and committed just one turnover. The Crimson Tide improved to 9-2 on the season with this victory. Coach Nate Oats had organized this game as a special opportunity for Nelson, a former player from North Dakota State who hails from Devils Lake, located about 90 minutes from Grand Forks.

North Dakota, however, put up a strong fight, leading for 17 of the first 20 minutes. The Hawks managed to establish a nine-point lead thanks to consecutive three-pointers from Amar Kuljuhovic and Eaglestaff. Alabama struggled early, missing nine of their initial twelve shots and recording 13 turnovers before halftime, finishing the period down by just three points at 38-35.

In a dramatic finish, Nelson’s critical inside basket and subsequent free throws propelled Alabama ahead 89-85 after the Fighting Hawks had equalized. A crucial rebound from Nelson off a missed three by Sears allowed Alabama to seal the game at the free-throw line.

For North Dakota, Eaglestaff was a standout performer, going 15 for 30 from the field and making 8 of 18 from beyond the arc. Unfortunately for the Fighting Hawks, this loss extends their streak to 0-11 against ranked opponents since transitioning to Division I in the 2008-09 season.

Looking ahead, Alabama will host Kent State on Sunday, while North Dakota prepares to welcome Division II South Dakota Mines on Friday.

Both teams will use this game as a valuable lesson, with Alabama’s coach noting the importance of facing adversity on the road, which might ultimately strengthen their resolve as the season progresses.