Alabama wins the SEC Championship...

   

      Alabama won the SEC Championship on Saturday, and we can thank the defense. Once again, the offense was missing in action. The final score was  The Tide 64-59. So much for the "Tide can't win unless they score 70 points" belief. Alabama's defense cinched it up and refused to lose late in the second half when the Bulldogs had cut the Tide lead to three. The Bulldogs had gone on a 10-2 run. James Rojas buried one from the corner in front of the Tide bench. That pushed the Tide lead up to six again, and Alabama won the Regular Season Championship. Alabama assured itself of the number one seed in the upcoming SEC Tournament. Bama won game 19 and now focuses on winning 21.  Auburn comes to Tuscaloosa on Tuesday night, and then Alabama travels to Georgia. 

     It's been a long time since Alabama won an SEC Basketball Championship. In 2001 the Tide won the SEC with a 12-4 record and finished the season with a 27-8 record. How long ago? Athletes in Action still played basketball. Mark  Gottfried was in his fourth season at Alabama. Most students at the Capstone hadn't even been born. Rod Grizzard, Terrance Meade, Erwin Dudley were sophomore starters. Gerald Wallace was a freshman, along with a little-known point guard named Antoine Pettway. 

     The first half of the season was Alabama's offense. The second half has been about the defense. Can Alabama put together the two in the remaining games? I don't know. I think Alabama's offense might be better against teams in the NCAA Tournament. Those teams have seen anything quite like the Crimson Tide. I'm betting a bunch of them haven't seen a defense that plays as hard as Alabama. I think Alabama is tired. It's been a long season, and the way Alabama plays on both ends of the floor has got to be tiring. I think part of the shooting problems might be caused by fatigue. Other teams will be tired as well. 

    Congratulations to the Crimson Tide. 

 Is 'Bama ready for Mississippi State? 

   Someone asked me if I thought Alabama was folding "like last year?" I don't think so, but there are some disturbing trends.  At a time when teams need to be gelling, the Tide seems to have lost the mojo. There are Three games are left to get it back. A loss to Mississippi State will kill the Tide's two seed. All of us remember the late-season collapse last season. No one wants a repeat.  I think we'll have an answer around 7 PM on Saturday night. Between now and then, I bet Nate Oats is doing everything he can do to win the game. We'll see what he's got. It is a pressure-packed game for Alabama, and Mississippi State has nothing to lose. 

       Mississippi State has a roster that will cause Alabama a lot of problems. They have two outstanding inside players. State also has two guards that can play hard in the lane and make the three. When you look at the State lineup, you have to wonder why they've had so much trouble winning. The Bulldogs are in 9th place in the Conference and have a 7-8 record. They are 13-11 overall. In Tuscaloosa, the Tide beat State 81-73. D.J. Stewart had 27 points and shredded the Tide's defense in the paint. If Alabama is going to win, they've got to cut down on State's ability to win in the lane. Tolu Smith, Post, had 9 boards. The Tide did keep State's two big men from scoring a lot of points. Smith and Abdul Ado combing for 14 points.  Ado had only 1 rebound. The Tide's defense on the two bigs was the difference in that game. The Tide isn't likely to have that much luck in Starkville, but the Tide cannot allow State to control the boards. 

     One thing Oats does have to throw at State is Jordan Bruner and Juwan Gary. The pair was the only bright spot in the Arkansas game, and Bama needs some inside points and boards tomorrow. They also need John Petty to make some three-point baskets. I have no idea what has happened to Joshua Primo, but he needs to play better. He seems to have lost his confidence. Herb Jones needs to stay out of foul trouble. We need balanced scoring. Quinerly needs to have better ball security. He needs to challenge State in the lane, but the State defenders' length will make it tough. I'd look for Jones to try to establish the drive and dish part of the offense.

     Alabama needs to understand that they will be defended by everyone they play, just like Arkansas. The gap defense was atrocious against Arkansas, and the Tide paid the price for that. Stewart and Iverson Molinar are going inside. Iverson is also a good outside shooter. The state is shooting the three-ball better, but their bread and butter are taking good shots near the basket.  The Tide needs to quit taking bad shots. If Bama shoots 45 %, they'll win. 

KEYS TO WIN:

1. I was disappointed with Coach Oats when it was clear that the officiating was one-sided in the Arkansas game.  He could have exploded, got a technical, and let the officials know he wasn't happy. It would have let his players know he had their backs. If things get out of hand, maybe he'll understand he needs to try a different approach in the SEC.

2. Alabama needs to play better gap defense, which will cut down fouls and free throws. Bruner, Gary, Rojas, and Reese need to be ready for a war inside.  

3. Shot selection has gotten worse. Maybe the team feels they need to make a few threes regardless. I don't think that will work. Stick to your game plan, and it will work.

4. Herb Jones and Jahvon Quinerly will need to take the ball inside. If either or both can establish an inside game off the dribble, it will open up the outside game. I have no doubt that Shackleford will wear out State defenders inside and keep them off the perimeters. 

5.  Alabama needs to settle down and make a few threes. They have seemingly forgotten the "extra pass" that defined the early success they had on offense. 

6.  Alabama needs to cut down on giving up offensive rebounds. That is an Achilles heel for Bama. But the return of Bruner will help. Juwan Gary is going to be an important player for Alabama down the stretch. 

7.  Run. Alabama needs to run. There isn't a team in the SEC that can match the foot speed of the Tide. 

8. Sloppy ball-handling has hurt the Tide. Alabama needs to keep the turnovers down to 10. 

9. Make 75% of the free throws. Alabama has done a good job this season, but stepping it up a little will mean a lot.

10. Play like you are a champion. 

    Bama should win this game. They can cut down the nets when they do. I think this is going to be a blue-collar battle down to the last two minutes. The Tide is a 6 point favorite. I'm very concerned about Alabama's late-season play right now. Alabama needs to get back in the groove. You might think that State, Auburn, and Georgia are easy games to win.  I'd think again. Roll Tide

 WHAT TO SAY ABOUT THE ARKANSAS GAME?       

       Alabama played a horrible game Wednesday night. The Tide got off to a bad start but fought back to take the lead early in the second half. And then... I'm not sure exactly how to say this. How about the worst officiating in the history of bad officiating its ownself occurred? Yeah, that sounds about right, doesn't it? Arkansas shot 43 free throws, and Alabama shot 8. Seriously, if you didn't see the game last night, you wouldn't believe that is even possible. The difference in those numbers is a disparity that no team can overcome, and Alabama didn't. It seemed the officials had made a decision to make sure Alabama couldn't win. Heck, Alabama probably wouldn't have won anyway, but it is important to players to think they have fair officiating. I played in a game in high school where one official was obviously cheating. He worked at the local post office, and his wife taught at the school. Every time we'd get close, the fouls rained down. 

        John Petty was so fed-up he said something to Doug Shows, who quickly tossed him. Shows are the supreme egotist, and he had to take it to the next level by throwing out Petty.  I'm not sure exactly what John said, but it's safe to assume e wasn't bragging about Show's ability to officiate.  We've all watched this official believe he's the star of the game instead of the players.  He hasn't reached the Teddy Valentine level, but he can see the exit sign now. 

    Alabama played a stinker. Had the officiating been level, they might not have won.  Alabama couldn't.  I hope Alabama tells the SEC they don't want  Doug  Shows or Pat Adams to walk on the floor when Alabama is present. Both have revealed some serious shortcomings with their behavior when officiating a game played by young adults. The officials are supposed to be the grownups in the room. 

     I had an Arkansas fan tell me that way the game was called diminished the win over Alabama. Even this fan wondered if the game was called fairly. We could say it is what it is.  Kind of forgive and forget, but that tacitly approves the behavior and guarantees it will continue to happen. Fundamental fairness is necessary to become an official. The SEC should sit Shows down for the remainder of the season. He can ply his trade in another league. None of this means Alabama would have won the game. Kudos to Arkansas for their win. 

     Alabama has a "man in the mirror" moment right now. Fix the mess, or get ready for more disappointments.  The slapdash ball-handling has got to end. The questionable shot selection has been obvious. The drive/dish has gone missing. Running up and done like a scalded dog was fun to watch. Enduring offensive players standing around should be taken off the menu.  We need to take better shots. Bama's shot-selection is killing us. 

     There were a few good things. Jordan Bruner knocked down four three-point baskets was good. See an injured Juwan Gary come on the floor and watching him play impressed me. He is going to be key to Bama's success. Oats is a good coach. He'll figure it out. Basketball is a sport of highs and lows. Alabama seems stuck in a low right now. They'll find the high again. Alabama can learn from the loss. They can use it to re-focus. 

     Bama plays Georgia on the make-up date. I have no idea why. Arkansas gets TAMU. 

Alabama plays for SEC Crown tonight...   

Nat Oates

   Let's be clear. Alabama is going to win the  SEC title. They may do it tonight when they travel to Fayetteville to play Arkansas or an upcoming game. Bama wants to do it tonight.  The Razorbacks are a one-point favorite. I'm surprised. I thought it would be 3. The last time Alabama played Arkansas, the  Tide whipped them 90-59. This isn't the same Arkansas team. They have won their last 7 SEC games. The entire basketball nation is going to be watching to see if Alabama clinch the conference crown tonight. For Alabama, this is a chance to keep that 2 seed. Nate Oates is making Alabama a powerhouse in basketball. Eric Musselman, the head Hog, is an excellent coach. He has taken a couple of high school recruits and hit the transfer portal to find a winning combination that has produced a 17-5 record. 

     

Eric Musselman

     Last season Musselman led the Razorbacks to a 20-12 record and an NIT bid. If it wasn't for the Alabama story, Arkansas's season would be the SEC's top story. Arkansas goes for their 18th win tonight. It is the biggest game in the SEC this season. I believe that Oats and Musselman are going to dominate the SEC in coming years. Both have unique recruiting philosophies. Each coach has a unique shot selection strategy. For Arkansas, they discipline themselves to take no bad shots. Alabama will take the first shot offered sometimes. Both teams like to run, and both teams play defense. 

 

Herb Jones 

       The Arkansas winning streak consisted of beating Auburn, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Kentucky, Missouri, and Florida. I'll leave it up to you to determine how good that stretch has been. Three games were played at home. Winning 7 SEC games is not easy regardless of who the competition might be. If Alabama wins tonight, the Tide is SEC Champions. If they lose,  they need to beat Miss. State, Auburn, and whoever they play in the makeup date. Arkansas has 5 SEC losses. Bama has 1 loss. There is a mathematical chance that the two teams could be co-champions, but that is not probable. LSU lost last night to Georgia, and that eliminates the Tigers. Now, LSU can move forward to firing Wade. Auburn can also fire Pearl if they choose. Let's hope the NCAA comes to a conclusion on these cheaters and the schools that protect them. 

    It will be interesting to see how much time Nat Oates gives Jordan Bruner tonight. He wasn't near 100% against Vanderbilt. This is going to be a slugfest inside, and  Rojas will get some time. I'd bet that Alex Reese gets the most minutes. There is a possibility that Juwan Gary plays tonight. My bet is he will be back for State or Auburn but ready to go full speed after that. I have been wondering why Keon Ambrose-Hylton has got some minutes lately. 

   

Petty needs to light it up tonight.

    It is imperative that Alabama dribble and dish tonight. Look for Jahvon Quinerly to take it to the hoop. We all know that Jaden Shackleford will do the same. Petty needs to have a big night. Primo needs to shoot some and stop being so tentative. Keon Ellis is ready for a big game as well.  He is deadly from the outside, and he is he'll steal your pride on defense. And then there is Herb Jones. He is getting close to 100%, and I'm betting Oats will let him man-up against Moses Moody, the 6-6 forward. Moody is the best freshman in the conference, and he is the backbone of Hog scoring. The addition of Justin Smith, 6-7, 230 lbs forward, transferred in from Indiana. The rise of Arkansas is thanks to Smith in so many ways. He can score, rebound, and defend. Smith is underrated. The Razorback backcourt is special. JD Notae, 6-1 point,  is fast, and he's quick. He loves to run the floor. Then there is Jalen Tate, 6-6 guard is a grad-transfer from Northern Kentucky. Tate has blossomed in the late-season run by Arkansas. Conner Vanover, post, 7-3, transferred from Cal and back home to Arkansas. He's improved under Musselman. He is a good rebounder and can even make the three-ball. Arkansas has no weakness that hurt them.

WHY ARKANSAS CAN WIN: They are at home, they are playing well, and they have gelled as a team. They may be better than Alabama. The Tide may not shoot well from downtown. 

WHY ALABAMA CAN WIN: They are the best team in the SEC and one of the NCAA's best teams. Alabama has the best three defenders on one team in the SEC. Jones, Petty, and Ellis are game-stoppers. Alabama may shoot the three well, and if they do, they will beat anyone. Alabama's defense is leading the SEC and # 2 in the nation. 

I think Bama can win. I'm not sure they will. Alabama has no rim-protector. Bama by 2. 

Will 'Bama play Texas A&M on the makeup date?

JD Davison was named Parade High School All-American.

   

     Don't hold your breath. Coach Nate Oats has suggested the Tide will play one of four SEC teams on the makeup date. Texas A&M isn't on the list. It appears the SEC will schedule Vanderbilt, Georgia, Florida, or Ole Miss.  I'd have no problem with any of these teams as long as 'Bama plays at home.  You can bet your retirement the Tide will get a road game. I've been told that there might be some concern that A&M is so racked with COVID problems they may just opt out of their remaining game. I doubt that. So why would the SEC do this to Alabama?  The short answer is it makes no sense.

        Perhaps the SEC wants to give Florida or Ole Miss a game to secure an NCAA tournament bid. I think Ole Miss shot themselves in the foot with a home loss to  Mississippi State. The Rebels are 7-7 in the league and 12-9 overall. They aren't a bubble team. Beating Alabama might make them one, however. The Rebels have three games left. They play at Missouri and Vanderbilt on the road. Then they host Kentucky at home. Three possible losses. Florida is 7-5 in the SEC and 11-6 overall. The Gators finish up with Auburn and Kentucky on the road and then have a tough home game with Missouri. Three possible losses? I'd bet they lose two. Florida is a projected 8 seed by Lunardi. Georgia and Vandy aren't going anywhere. A game with either of these two teams has no seeding upside for Alabama. If pushed, I'd say it is a win to give Alabama a better record. 

     A lot of Alabama fans are going to go the conspiracy theory route on this. I don't think the SEC Commissioner would try to hurt any SEC team. That being said, the Conference needs to consider what is best for the image of the league. Alabama is not a projected 2 seed by Lunardi. If a few things fell into place, that could be a 1seed. As much as Tide fans would want to see it happen, I just don't think it will happen unless the Tide wins the SEC with one loss. If that happens, they should get a 1 seed regardless of the SEC tournament. If Bama wins the Conference and the SEC tournament, they will be a 1 seed. 

    Fans are going to re-up their dues on Bama fatigue. That isn't the case. The SEC should actively promote the Tide's chances of getting a preferential seed. Oats has put together a special team. He's ahead of what most coaches can do in their second year. I think Bama can sustain this success in the future  Losing Jones, Petty, Reese, and Bruner will be tough to make up. It may take a while to get the new players involved in the downtown offensive system. I hope the SEC decides to allow the Tide to play the Aggies. It is a scheduled game. It should be played instead of letting the others have a shot at the Tide. And Alabama, can't just say no. It's a league decision,  but they'll listen to what Bama has to say.

   

     JD Davison has gotten the call that he is now a Parade High School All-American. He is the reigning MR. BASKETBALL in Alabama and is expected to get the nod again this season. He is a five-star prospect and has already signed his national letter of intent to play for the Crimson Tide. Think a more physical Colin Sexton. Think about this - next year, Alabama will have two five-star point guards on the floor, and each is a Parade High School All-American. Davison is a senior at the Calhoun School. 

   

   

Later - Alabama/Arkansas

'Bama's remaining season ... 

Tide # 6 in the AP poll 

       Let's go ahead and get this out of the way - Alabama's quest for non-bubble status is over. Things look better for hoops now.  It's been a long time since the Tide hasn't been wishing and hoping for some remote chance to go dancing. 'Bama went to the NCAAT in 2018. Before that, it was 2012 and then journey back to 2006. It was like some sort of communist six-year plan.  For long-time Alabama basketball fans, it has been a heavyhearted experience. There has been a small cadre of Tide basketball supporters for a long time.  Those in that group know each other well. We'd go on road trips together. We'd celebrate the wins and regret the losses. We were, and we are, a family. Nate Oats and his staff have done yeoman's work in getting this team to be the best team in the SEC. The regular season isn't over. The Tide has Arkansas and Mississippi State on the road and Auburn at home. All three of these games will cause Bama some real problems. Win one of these games, and Alabama is the outright champion of the SEC. 

    Right now, the Crimson Tide is the best team in the SEC. They can elevate their game and season with three wins. I've said this, and it bears repeating. If Alabama wins the SEC with only one loss, they'll get a #1 seed from the NCAA Selection Committee. The NCAA has historically awarded #1seeds to Power Five conferences undefeated or has only one loss. Alabama has the three games mentioned and then the SEC Tournament. That could give Alabama three additional games. The double-bye puts the top four seeds into the quarterfinals. The Tide is already assured of one of these seeds. 

    Regardless of what happens for the remainder of the SEC season, Alabama will get a good seed. There are no regions. All games will be played in Indianapolis. I don't think where the games are played is much of a factor. In the past, you'd always see Duke or UNC play in North Carolina. 64 teams in one state is going to be something to see. My opinion is Alabama won't be worse than a  #3 seed unless a late-season collapse occurs. The BIG 10 is going to put a lot of teams in the NCAAT. It appears that the SEC will have six teams selected.  Gongaza and Baylor are the two top teams in the nation.  I think Houston is an excellent team.  This could be a year where Cinderally might win a few early games but no glass slipper for the Final Four.  

     What kind of team can hurt 'Bama in the remaining games.  Arkansas is peaking at the right time. Mississippi State and AU have strong inside games, and those teams will always give Alabama problems. The truth regarding the Tide is poor shooting might get you by Vandy, but excellent teams will be another question. If Alabama shoots well from the outside, they can beat any team in the nation. Jordan Bruner's return can help, but only when he's back to full speed. 

     I think it is important to have the A%M game played on the makeup date.  A win helps Bama in seeding and the SEC race. I'm not sure what the SEC would do if two SEC teams have the same number of losses, but one team has an additional win.

UPDATE: Bediako will commit in the next two weeks unless something unexpected occurs, according to a "source" who called me this AM

Shackleford leads 'Bama to a close win... 

     Jaden Shackleford scored 27 points and rescued a floundering Tide in an 82-78 win. Alabama is now 13-1 in the SEC as they narrow the number of games needed to outright clinch the SEC regular-season crown. Alabama was ice-cold from behind the three-point line, making only 10 of 39 shots.  It was the two-point baskets that gave Bama the win. In the final four minutes, Shackleford's timely play around the basketball saved the game for Alabama. Alabama shot on 36% from the floor. The Tide made 20-28 free throws, which were a key to the outcome. Alabama had one more rebound than Vandy at 34/33.  

     The best thing you might say is Alabama won the game playing as poorly as a team could play. You might also remember that Alabama gave up 49 points in the second half. That's not good. Part of that was caused by poor shooting by the Tide overall. It says a lot that the Crimson actually won this game. At the end of the season, a win is still a win. Alabama moves to 18-5, which should keep the Tide in the top-ten. The Tide remains 8th in Kenpom.com, and the defense still is ranked 2nd in the nation.

     The game saw Jordan Bruner on the floor for the first time since the first Kentucky game.  It was a mixed performance for the grad-transfer. He was not at full speed but had six boards, one assist, one steal, and one blocked shot in 19 minutes. I'm betting that was much longer than Oats wanted.  I thought Alabama had their best game with Alex Reese on the floor. He finished 10 points and 3 rebounds in 17 minutes of play. He also had a needed three-pointer to keep Bama ahead. Alabama is going to need Bruner in down the stretch.  Oats may have taken the chance to play Bruner more than Reese.  It seemed to me that Alabama had become used to the rotation with Reese. Bruner needs some floor game to find his game again. I'm not sure Arkansas is the game to find it. 

    Alabama can't continue to win games, missing 29 three-point baskets. It takes some resilience to win a game when your offense is struggling.  Petty, Shackleford, and Primo had off nights. Quinerely had 13 points and was 3/5 from downtown.  Alabama is going to need a much better game to have a chance against Arkansas. The Hogs have become a much better team. It wouldn't surprise me if the Razorbacks were a favorite against Alabama next week in Arkansas. It will be an important game for both teams. Arkansas is 17-5. 

     

 Alabama vs. Vanderbilt today at high-noon...       

      I never underestimate any team. A poor team can beat a great team if all the pieces fall into place. Vanderbilt's basketball program has suffered. Jerry Stackhouse inherited a mess. Not just any mess, but a program that was on death's door. Bryce Drew all but destroyed Vanderbilt basketball. Drew came to Vandy as the red-hot new SEC wunderkind. It never happened. At Valpo, Drew had won the Horizon Conference four out of the five years he coached there. In the final season, the Crusaders were an astounding 30-7, including a 16-2 conference record. Vanderbilt came calling with an offer to get him out of the mid-major coaching ranks. His first year at Vandy, he took his Commodore team to the Big Dance. After that, it all fell apart. He ended his tenure in Nashville with a 40-50 overall record and a dismal 16-38 conference record. In this final season at Vandy, they failed to win a game. Goodbye, Drew, and hello, Stackhouse.  

     Stackhouse won three league games and eleven games overall. They were 11-21 overall and 3-15 in the Conference. That was an improvement. Jerry was a high-profile name and hoped his college and professional careers would be the lynchpin to future success. Right now, the 'Dores are 2-9 in the Conference and 6-11 overall. I'm going to defend Stackhouse. 2020-21 has been a horrible year for Vandy due to COVID protocols and postponed games. The Commodores haven't had the time to build a cohesive team yet. I watched the Vandy-Kentucky game. Vandy fell behind early, rallied some in the first half, and was down only one-point late in the second half. Two bricked free throws allowed Kentucky to maintain their lead and win by four. Here's what I saw that Bama fans need to remember. Vanderbilt took the ball inside for a lot of quality shots at the rim. Had Scottie Pippin, Jr. had a good game; the 'Dores would have won. If wishes were horses, even the beggars could ride. I get that. Don't think that Vandy won't play hard for one minute, and the game will Bama's weakness against Vanderbilt's strength. 

     This will be Alabama's game to lose.  On paper, the numbers all favor Alabama. Scottie Pippen, Jr. is an outstanding guard. He leads Vandy in scoring with 20.3 ppg and assists at 5.2 per game. Each of those numbers is 2nd in the SEC. Dylan Disu, power forward, is averaging 15  ppg. Disu is tied for 3rd in the SEC for shooting percentage. He also leads the SEC in rebounding at 9 per game. The Commodores are scoring 73.5 ppg and are allowing 76.8 ppg. I like Bama by 14. 

 Oats loves Alabama and...     

     He has just been given a lengthy contract extension and a nice raise. Oats is reportedly making 3.25 million now. That's a significant number who was a high school math teacher/basketball coach just a few years ago. Alabama has fallen in love with Coach Oats. Not only is he a great coach, but he appears to be a great human being as well. The story about his family opening up their door and hearts to a young man was moving and gave us some insight into the Oats family's character. The Alabama nation should be proud to have him in our community. His coaching is like the cherry on top of a sundae. It seems to me that Oats exudes old-fashioned values, which many fans are happy to see. This is not saying that other Alabama coaches didn't do the same. 

     I'm curious to see where his recruiting takes the Tide. Keep in mind that the seniors were not recruited by Oats initially. But, he did recruit them when Avery was fired. He had to convince Jones, Lewis, Petty, and  Reese to remain at Alabama and help Oats establish his program. These players will not be easily replaced.  Oats is hot on the trail of several highly rated recruits. I've talked with a couple of them. I'll tell you what they have said when they tell me it's okay to share.  In general terms, they are very interested in Alabama and the offensive philosophy the Tide uses. There is a transfer I mentioned yesterday, a couple of Candian players, and grad transfers yet to be identified. 

     I talked to a coach in Canada about Oats. Word on the streets of Toronto is that Nate Oats is building a program that welcomes Canadian players.  You probably know that Buffalo is just across the border from Canada. At Buffalo, Coach Oats started to recruit Canadian high schoolers, first as an assistant and then as head coach. His efforts continue today.  The Romulus High School Math teacher/basketball coach is building the foundation for dominating basketball at Alabama. He is making 3.25 million per year now, and if you want to steal Oats from Bama, be ready to write a check for a ten million dollar buy-out.

ALREADY SIGNED THIS SEASON:

• JD Davison - According to most rating services, JD Davison - 6-2 1/2 point guard, Calhoun High School, Letohatchee, Alabama, is the top-ranked point guard in America. A consensus five-star recruit. Most experts project him as a potential one and done and hello NBA guy. He is extremely explosive around the rim and has a high basketball IQ. He is a better than average outside shooter and will be better when he doesn't have to carry the burden of offensive scorer alone. In the first high school game, Jaddarion Davison opened the season by scoring 57 points in the first game.  He is averaging 42 points per game, 11 rebounds,  8 steals, and 4.5 blocked shots. He plays at a 2-A school, but he has played against nationally elite competition.

• Langston Wilson - 6-9 forward, 200 lbs. from Georgia Highlands College. He is from Upper Derby, Pa. He has some serious hops and is can finish at the rim. What makes him a great recruit is he can also shoot the three. Think Herb Jones, who needs to learn how to play man-to-man defense. 'Bama beat out Arizona State for his signature. He needs some time in the weight room to gain strength and weight. He hasn't played basketball but a couple of years. He is a four-star recruit and a JUCO top-five player. He has a chance to develop into an excellent player. He has the length that Nate Oats demands. 
• Jusuan Holt - 6-6 shooting forward from Francis Day School in Roswell, Georgia. The kid can shoot the rock. He has all it takes to be a prolific offensive threat. He is smooth, not explosive. A year in the weight room and some feeding frenzies will do him well. He had offers from Clemson, UNC, Georgia, and Georgia Tech. I wonder if a red-shirt year might help? 

BAMA IS RECRUITING:

• Charles Bediako - 6-11 post player, currently enrolled at IMG Academy in Florida. He is from Canada and played with Josh Primo on Canada without Borders Internation team. He has listed a five-star candidate on some sites and our on others. He has five schools listed - Duke, Ohio State,  Michigan, Texas, and Alabama. Most experts feel like he is 'Bama bound. He is a tremendous inside player who can also play on the perimeter. He has length and can be a  rim protector and rim-rocker as well. He can run the floor. He is now up to 220, having gained 20 lbs. since attending IMG. He isn't a one a done. He could be a two, and I'm through sort of guy. Tremendous upside. He's the post player that can go head to head with other post players in the SEC. He likes Bama, but I don't think he's a lock. Most others do and let's hope they are correct. His relationship with Primo is important. By the way, he likes the warm weather in the Deep South. One final thing - he also likes Nate Oats and the program he is building. He likens their style of play as NBA-like and says Bama can help him. I think Alabama will get him if the Tide has a strong run in the NCAA.
• Namiri Burnette - Texas Tech transfer. 6-3 combo guard from Napa, California. The ESPN five-star was the highest-ranked prospect in Texas Tech basketball history but found himself lacking the playing time he needed. He got caught behind Mac McClung, who transferred into Tech. He can play the point or the two-guard. He runs the floor like a  greyhound on speed. He is a good shooter, and his high school numbers were otherworldly. If he doesn't choose Bama, it will be because of Davison. He loves Oats and his style of play. Bama finished second to Tech before, but he had a great visit to Ttown.

    You could throw a blanket over Kentucky and Bama for the top class in the early period. I think seeing 'Bama near the top in SEC recruiting is going to a regular occurrence. 

Tomorrow: Vandy comes calling Tuscaloosa.

     

Will the SEC give 'Bama another opponent than A&M?

Oats agrees to an extension through 2027 with a $10,000,000.00 dollar buy-out in the first two years.

     Tip of the Hat to Tide23 for posting a comment that was already on my mind. "Will the SEC send us someplace other than College Station on the makeup?" It could happen, and maybe we should ask LSU if they wanted to make a trip to Oxford to play Ole Miss for the second time this season. I'm guessing they'd say no. Could the SEC send Alabama to Florida as a makeup game as an example?  Florida is a couple of games short already. They would love to host Alabama.  I have no idea what the SEC might do regarding the missed TAMU game. I'm betting right now they don't either. What they probably don't want to do is keep the SEC's top team from getting a preferential seed in the NCAA Tournament. Let's hope so, at least. 

      We need to keep in mind the SEC is about making money. Someone will likely do a cost-benefit analysis and see which one feeds the coffers of the Conference. I'm betting the league office decides that helping teams make the field of 64 is more important than just making up a game. We should find out soon when and if the game will be played.

     In other news, I've heard that Nimari Burnett, who has left the Texas Tech program, has contacted Alabama. It was widely reported that Burnett, a Five-Star recruit, picked the Red Raiders over Alabama. 'Bama was his second choice. Burnett was a Parade High School All-American.  Oregon and Michigan were in his top four before he signed with Texas Tech. He is from Napa, California. Nimari is a perfect fit for the offense run by Nat Oates and Alabama. I believe under that new transfer rule, he will be immediately eligible. He is 6-4 and weighs 180 lbs. When Burnett was in high school, he visited Tuscaloosa. 

     

What does postponing the Texas A&M game mean?

     The Southeastern Conference met with officials from Alabama and Texas A&M regarding tomorrow's basketball game. The game is now postponed. No makeup date has been set at this time.  Alabama dodged the postponement bullet this season. Texas A&M probably thinks they have received the death penalty. Another week without hoops for the Aggies. Many 'Bama fans wanted the game canceled to give Herb Jones some additional time to recuperate from his back injury. Let's hope that happens. In the Georgia game, Jones said he was "about 80%."  I thought Herb played a great game. He was smooth as silk on offense and viper-like on defense. His 21 points were a career-best for the lefty. I did think he wore down some in the second half. Maybe that was the 20% he alluded to. 

       No doubt, having a healthy Herb Jones is a must for Alabama if they want to win the SEC, the SEC Tournament, and then make a run in the NCAA. Herb Jones is the Most Valuable Player in the SEC.  He does everything his team needs to win. He is unselfish. He is the best defender I've seen at Alabama since Antonio McDyess. He should win both the league MVP and the Defensive MVP as well. I'm not sure who else should be in the running for those awards. The rest will probably help him. Is there another side to the postponement, however?

     If Alabama had beaten the Aggies and then Vandy, they would be playing with house money to win the SEC Crown. My general thought was Bama would beat Georgia, A&M, and then Vanderbilt. Alabama could be no worse than co-champions of the SEC. Bama would then have to beat one more team. That would be Arkansas, State, or hated AU. Beat one of them, and the Tide wins the SEC outright. I think the SEC must set a date to play the Aggie game. Another road win helps the Tide's NET and ultimate seeding. The game needs to be played at some point, and I hope it doesn't short-change the Tide's preparation for another opponent. 

     The LSU Tigers were being sent to Oxford for a second game against the Rebels. That strikes me as unfair. It seems to me that Will Wade deserves some unfairness. An Ole Miss win over LSU would eliminate the Tigers from any chance to win the SEC as Co-Champs. No date or location for the make-up game is set at this time. If you are a Tide fan, you'd want the game replayed.  It appears that only the weather can stop the Tide at this point. 

      Alabama numbers are still awe-inspiring for Tide fans.

• NET - 8
• RPI - 4
• SOS -12
• ELO - 8
• kenpom - 8
• ADJ DEFENSE KENPOM 

     Alabama continues to rank high in brackets:

• Lunardi - 2 seed
• Palm - 2 seed
• Bracketmatrix - 2 seed
• Teamrankings - 1 seed

1. 
   

Tide plays at 2:00 CST on Thursday...

     Alabama takes on Texas A&M this Thursday instead of Saturday. I have been told by A&M people that this was to ensure an open window to allow an open window for departure from Texas.  The forecast in College Station is snow on Wednesday and snow showers on Thursday. We'll see how that goes. The Tide will then be home in Tuscaloosa on Thursday night. Alabama then plays Vanderbilt in Tuscaloosa at noon on Saturday. That's a short turnaround. Here's my take on the date change. It allows the Aggies to get everyone back off COVID protocol. 

       Bama continues their quest to win the SEC Crown. After Vandy, the team travels to Arkansas for the conference headliner on Wednesday at 8 PM CST in Fayetteville. The Razorbacks have four conference losses and play Florida tonight at 6:00 PM CST in Bud Walton. The Hogs should be an eight-point favorite. The loser of this game is finished in the SEC race.  The loser will have five losses and no hope of winning the crown but fighting for the double-bye. I like Arkansas. Arkansas is ranked 24th in the polls. Florida is unranked.

     Missouri travels to Georgia tonight for a 6 PM CST tip-off. Tilman is expected to return for the game. The 20th ranked Tigers would all but be eliminated with a loss to the Dawgs. This is going to be a dog and catfight. I like Missouri in a nail-biter. Georgia put up 82 against Alabama.  That will be enough to beat Missouri.  Georgia is 9-3 at home, and Missouri is 4-3 on the road.  I'm tempted to take Georgia in this one.

      By the numbers. Alabama is looking very strong.  The Tide is 4th in the RPI. The Selection Committee uses the NET as a guideline to compare teams. The Tide checks in at 8th.  In the SOS  category, the Tide is 9th, but here is a number to remember - Alabama opponents have more wins than anyone in the top 20. While the SOS isn't a defining factor it once was, it still gives some insight into who is playing the better teams. 

    Alabama has TAMU on the road. Home teams are tough, but the Aggies have missed games and practices due to COVID. Alabama should win. Then the Tide has Vandy at home.  Alabama should win that game. I'm looking forward to seeing Scotty Pippin, Jr. play. He's a great baller. Alabama then faces the defining stretch of their remaining games. Arkansas and Mississippi State on the road, and Auburn at home. If Bama wins all five games, they will win the SEC with only one loss and get a one-seed, in my opinion. Arkansas on the road is always thought.  Alabama doesn't match-up well with State or Auburn.  The Tide needs Bruner back ASAP. He needs to then get in game shape.  Without Bruner, five wins will be hard. Alabama will be a better team with Bruner back at full throttle. He will cut down on offensive rebounds, which give too many extra shots. 

    By the way, Bama is still number one in defense per Kenpom.com.

UPDATE: Missouri has announced that Tilman will not play against Georgia

                LSU vs. Ole Miss postponed until Friday, the 18th, at 4 CST

     

TEXAS A&M GAME MAY BE POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER...

Maybe some rest will help the Tide. 

Tide is # 8 in AP, 9th in Coaches, and 7th in CBS Polls

     Snow and ice are likely in the College Station, TX area today. Highways are already not passable. On Wednesday, an ice storm is forecasted for the site. Given the weather and the current COVID problems on campus, it is questionable if the game on Wednesday the 17th will be played. No official word has been released by the SEC office regarding the situation. I wonder if Alabama might benefit from some time off to help injured players rest and concentrate on therapy. No word from Nate Oats on what is occurring in Tuscaloosa. I would drive to College Station, but the weather is just not going to allow me to do so. Of course, much of the bad weather is north of Texas to set the record straight. If you've ever been in Oklahoma or Texas in a "blue northerner," you wouldn't drive either.

   The SEC is going to have problems scheduling make-up games. The game with TAMU is important to Alabama to put a stranglehold on the SEC Crown. Alabama is now 12-1 in the league. That's a full three games ahead in the loss column. LSU, Arkansas, and Florida have 4 losses. Looking at the 4 loss teams' upcoming schedule, you find Arkansas has Alabama and Florida at home and then has to play LSU on the road. LSU has Arkansas on the road, AU on the road, and a big game with suddenly surging Ole Miss on the road.  Florida is a mess. They have two games postponed, and one is against LSU on the road, but the Gators also have Arkansas, Auburn, and Missouri on the road. Say goodnight, Florida. Before Alabama travels to Fayetville, either Arkansas or LSU will be done. 

  Alabama needs to win. Just win, baby, as the late Al Davis once said.

 Tide destroys Georgia 115-82...

     We've all been concerned about the offense.  Alabama showed the SEC the offense is back by beating Georgia 33-points. Alabama scored 64 points in the second half. Let's put that into some hoops perspective - North Carolina scored  18 points in the first half against Virginia. So much for having blue blood. The scoring was so lopsided that Nate Oats apologized to the Georgia head coach for making a basket late in the game.  It was that kind of day for the Tide.  

    Nate Oats commented that the 18 turnovers kept the game from being crazy. He said that had the Tide dropped that number down to 12, the score would have been much worse.  That's hard to imagine. I guess the math says that's true. Whatever Oats believes is working. From the old eye-test standard,  Alabama could have beaten anyone yesterday. Alabama gave up to many offensive rebounds, but that could improve if Bruner and Gary come back. 

     Alabama broke the all-time record for points scored against an SEC opponent. Once again, Alabama found a way to embarrass the University of Georgia. It seems to be an Alabama habit in any sport. Alabama put up a hundred last season, as well.  

     Alabama shot 64.5% from the floor and 60% from downtown. Bama made 18 of 30 from my daughter calls La La Land. The Tide also made 25-30 free throws and out boarded the Dawgs 36-29. Herb Jones led the Tide with 2l. It is also a career-high for him.  Primo awoke from the land of the living dead. He had 19 all in the second half.  Shackleford had 18. Quinerly had 16 and Petty chipped in 13. Eight Alabama players made three-point baskets. Turnovers were still too many, but great shooting sometimes make them  disappear.

    Herb Jones seems to be on a collision course with SEC Player of the Year. He should also SEC Defensive Player of the Year. The media seems to be pushing his selection. Alabama is projected as the last 2 seed in the Selection Commitees initial release of teams to the public.  There is a lot of games to strengthen that position, move up, or lose it. If Alabama wins the SEC with only one loss the Tide should be a #1 seed in my opinion. History is one the Tide's side with that by the way.  

     Bama now goes to College Station to play TAMU, if they have passed COVID protocol.  Bama will be a probitive favorite in that one. In other news, LSU beat the Vols and have all but eliminated them from the SEC race. The Missouri loss in OT to Arkansas gives the Tigers their fifth loss. Arkansas is now 16-5. They have four loses in the SEC. LSU has four, and so does Florida. If Bama wins three more games in conference they will be SEC champ and have a double bye in the Tournament. Bama is looking for six wins and a number one seed.

    Alabama can win the National Championship if they shoot the ball as well as they did against Georgia. Whether that happens remains to be seen. I might say it is unlikely the Tide wins it all, but it is no longer impossible. If some injuries are overcome with the return of Bruner and Jones it Alabama's chances better.

'Bama vs. Georgia this afternoon...

Alabama tries to go 12-1 in the conference today

      Alabama (16-5) takes on the Georgia Bulldogs (12-7) tonight at 2:30 PM on the SEC Network.  The Tide is currently 11-1 in the Conference,, and 'Dawgs are a lack-luster 5-7. Alabama finds itself a prohibitive 13-point favorite this morning. Alabama is back home after two road games.  The Tide is probably glad to get back into the friendly confines of Coleman Coliseum after a challenging road game against South Carolina. That game saw another injury. Juwan Gary injured his shoulder and will not play today. Jordan Bruner is still unable to go, so Alex Reese and James Rojas will attempt to hold down the middle.  

     Rojas played some critical minutes against South Carolina. He hit two must make free-throws to ice the game. Reese has played better lately, and Alabama needs some big minutes from him today.  John Petty, Jr. had 20 against Carolina and played a tremendous all-around game.  Jahvon Quinerly seems to be recovered from his illness. Herb Jones will likely play,, but his effectiveness is limited. He had 7 assists last time out but couple that with 4 turnovers. I bet that Nat Oates told his team that ball security is paramount today.  22 turnovers against South Carolina was enough to get you beat most games. 

     Joshua Primo made a couple of threes in the last game,  and perhaps he's going to step up today from the outside. Shackleford is always hustling, and takes it to the hoop the way Oats wants him to execute. He is also a deadly outside shooter. Let's hope that the Tide can re-establish their perimeter game.  I think things will improve when Jordan Burner is back on the floor and into playing shape.  His presence in the last three game will be of great importance to the Tide. I'm beginning to wonder if he is coming back at all. That is why Gary's injury is so significant. 

KEYS TO THE GAME:

• The Tide must defend Savir Wheeler.  Wheeler set's up the Georgia defense. This is a must do.
• Alabama has to give up as few offensive rebounds to Georgia as possible. Georgia is a good offensive board team. If you force Georgia to take some bad shots (by doing #1) it puts additional pressure on the Dawgs to get some second shots. If the Dogs commit an extra man to the boards look for Bama to run and gun.
• Petty, Primo, Reese, and Quinerly needs to make some threes. Herb can help out there as well.  Asking Jones to play the point will delay his recovery.  

     If Alabama wins today they can see the exit ramp to claim the SEC regular season crown. Today, LSU plays Tennessee. The loser will pick up their 5th SEC loss.  The loser of the Missouri - Arkansas game will have five losses. Two teams will see their chase to win the SEC Crown will be over.  If Alabama wins the next three games they will win the conference title.  Not bad for the second year under Nate Oates.

Tide hits the 80-point level again...  

     I'm sure some fans are concerned about the falling level or Alabama's offensive output.  The Tide finally got back over the 80 points per game threshold after the three previous games. Why the worry about fewer points per game? Here's why.  Sooner or later, an opposing team will have a game where they shoot lights out. Their scoring has nothing to do with your scoring. It would be best to keep pumping in the points to win games if another team is shooting well and avoid a loss. In my mind, that number is 80 and above. 

      The next three games set up well for the Tide to win. That would give Alabama 19 wins. The last three games before SEC Championship are problematic. Arkansas is an excellent all-around team that appears to be playing "big ball" at the right time.  State and Auburn cause matchup problems for Alabama. Their inside height will make rebounding more difficult. It will also make making layups challenging. Layup penetration is essential to the Oats offensive gameplan. Alabama is going to need more points to avoid future losses. In fact, Alabama's five losses all involved games in which they scored less than 72 points per game. One loss saw the Tide scored less than 60. If Alabama scored their season average, they would be undefeated. Despite some sub-par outings, Alabama was close to beating Oklahoma,  Missouri, and Western Kentucky. You might remember the snafu, which occurred at the end of the WKU game in which players were unsure of the score. That's not an excuse but an observation. Alabama has a three-game lead in the loss column today. They also have a four-game lead in the win column. 

     For the sake of discussion, let's assume 'Bama wins their next six games.  Alabama would finish the regular season at 22-5.  Those are numbers where the high cotton*grows. I think Alabama has a real chance to win the last six if Jordan Bruner comes back and can play at a high level against Mississippi State and Auburn. One that defies logic is winning despite multiple injuries and illnesses. No one knows if Bruner will come back at full speed or whether he'll need some time to get the rust off. Reports are that Bruner has been shooting, riding a bike, and doing pool calisthenics. Rest assured that Tide doctors and trainers have done all necessary to have him ready to play. I got an email from someone asking me if Jordan Bruner is eligible to play next season? I'm not sure. He is a grad transfer, not a senior. If you know, let the fans know as well.

*High cotton is a Southern term to describe cotton sold at high market value. 

*High cotton is a Southern term to describe cotton sold at high market value.

Bama's grabs an 81-78 win over South Carolina...

     The Alabama win over South Carolina wasn't a thing of beauty.  The two teams combined for a total of 41 turnovers. It's hard to win a game when you have 22 turnovers. It's not as bad when the other team has 19.  At least not as bad this game. Sooner or later, that will catch up with you.  The Tide only shot 38.2% from the floor.  The three-point shooting was better in terms of the numbers they put up. Bama got off 34 and hit 12.  That's not a significant number, but at least the  Tide found a way to shoot that many. The problem is that Alabama isn't making a lot of layups. I primarily think the problem is taking poor shots.  Shackleford is forcing shots to make the outside game viable. The more attempts made inside, the better the perimeter shots are going to be. Petty was only 3-10. For Alabama to close out the regular-season championship, they need up the ante from the outside. 

     I predicted a war in Columbia, S.C., and we got one. Juwan Gary got hurt in his first Bama start. He's from Columbia. His family was there. Bruner is still on the bench. Rojas played an outstanding game. He battled inside. He made the two big free throws to lock down the win. Here is the stat of the game. Alabama won the rebounding war 41-38.  Petty lead Alabama with 8 boards. He was also the leading scorer with 20.  Rojas had 4 rebounds, but 3 of those were big boards. The Tide was17-20 from the line,  and that was the margin of victory, in my view. 

     I had two kidney stones and have been pretty much waylaid. I wish this pain on no one.  Georgia next.

      

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 SOUTH CAROLINA WITHOUT HERB JONES...

     According to a fan who saw Herb Jones and telephoned me late this morning, he isn't sure if he'll play tonight. This was based on his seeing Herb move about.  He didn't talk with Jones. Oates says no decision has been made about the game. I get calls like this from time to time—the only reason this one is shared because the person has given me useful information in the past. I haven't tried to confirm the conversation. You can take it or ignore what he said. Besides all, you would get is coachspeak about his status. It does bring up a point worthy of discussion. What will Alabama do if Jones can't play?

     If Jones is sitting on the bench with Jordan Bruner, it means that 40% of the Tide's starting lineup is out. How many teams could win with that percentage of starters on the pine?  Frank Martin, South Carolina Head Coach recently told the press that Jones is the most valuable SEC player. The coach then elaborated why.  Jones is the best defensive player in the conference; he makes threes when his team needs them, he pushed the ball down the paint, and he instructs his teammates what to do on defense.  This is high praise for a man who is a perfectionist.  

     Alabama can beat Carolina if everyone else does their jobs. It appears that Jahvon Quinerly is back.  An extra burden falls on him if Jones is out. The Alabama inside game must create opportunities to draw post defenders out of the lane, and they must take up the slack for some of Herb and Jordan's rebounds. Between the pair, that is 11.5 rebounds a game. That is a lot of rebounds. Here's another observation. When Alabama isn't taking a lot of the three-pointers, it means fewer long rebounds. It might surprise you to know that Alabama is 3rd in the NCCA in rebounds. Rebounding at Alabama is a team effort. Everyone needs to rebound well, but losing your top two rebounders is tough. 

     The Tide must get their outside game back on track.  Without better outside shooting, every game becomes one of attrition. You might lose games you are projected to win without outside shooting. It's that weapon that makes Alabama dangerous. Even though the Tide will be playing games that appear they can win, you'll lose some when you are on the razor's edge. I have no idea if it is a bad idea if Herb to play or not. That is up to the teams's doctor, trainers, and the player. 

     South Carolina is having a bad year. They nearly lost their pre-conference schedule. They beat Florida on the road. They beat Georgia, but they lost to Vanderbilt. Good and bad. Mostly bad. Any given night, an SEC team can beat you. If Bama can pick up the pace they win. If not, they can lose. South Carolina hasn't been a good outside shooter.  That could allow Bama some leeway inside on the boards. 

     Alabama isn't going to improve the NET numbers in the remainder of the season. All the teams left on the schedule are not Quad 1 teams.  A loss would really hurt the rankings. Bama has to play each game as if it is the most important game remaining. The NET demands it.

Tide needs to focus on South Carolina...    

Ellis is making a difference.

      What Alabama needs is a solid game. A game where they start fast, don't turn the ball over and get the outside shooting on the menu. In other words, something to show the basketball world that Alabama isn't going anywhere. The Tide needs to win games until Jordan Bruner comes back to full speed. Then, Alabama can up the ante in their season. I have a lot of faith in Nate Oates. He's a good coach in a tough position. He's lost his center, Herb Jones is hurt, John Petty seems to be in the deep freeze, and Joshua Primo didn't even shoot in the last game.  Alex Reese is up and down, and Jahvon Quinerly, his point guard, has been sick. He's relying on a red-shirt freshman off knee surgery to play the post. James Rojas has been sick and hasn't made progress since his return. All of that and Alabama is ranked in the top-ten in the nation. Shackleford and Ellis are playing like their is on fire. The pair can only do so much. It's not the greatest time to play another road game. You have to drag Alabama to the graveyard to beat them, however. No quit in this bunch. 

     Nate Oats has been dealt a weak hand the last few games. He has done the best under the circumstances.  This man can coach. The question on the table is, can Oats keep doing this until Bruner and Jones are 100% ? He can. Tuesday night will tell us a lot about Alabama basketball.  South Carolina is not a good team. What they are is a hard-nosed bunch coached by Frank Martin. He teaches fundamentals and a boxer-like attitude. You might beat Carolina, but you'll be sore in the morning. State beat Carolina, and the Gamecocks will not want to lose two in a row at home. They won't go quietly into the night. Tuesday night will be a fight. 

      The Tide is playing outstanding defense. It has let them win some close games. They cannot afford another start like in Missouri. Let's hope that Oats gets the same effort his team showed in the second half of the Missouri game. Alabama showed everyone what they can do with a late 21-2 run last  Saturday. Bama did that with the same players that appeared stunned by what Missouri  This team has shown resiliency over the season. Has Alabama learned a lesson?

Road games require certain things to win -

1. Home teams usually start quick. 'Bama must withstand that.

2. Keep your key players out of foul trouble. 

3. You must make your free throw. 

4. Try to minimize your turnovers/unforced errors.

5. Take only good shots. Don't force anything.

6. Talk to each other on defense.  

7. Play your assigned role.

8. Rebound and don't give Carolina second chances 

9. Give yourself second chances by getting some rebounds.

10. Don't play one on one basketball while on offense. Reverse the floor.

     The Tide's NET is great. Bama's remaining schedule has teams in the bottom half of the SEC standings. A loss would hurt their NET numbers. KenPom now has us as the 7th ranked team. The defense is the 2nd ranked team. A loss will hurt those numbers due to the low ranking of 'Bama's opponents.   Bama is going to be an 8 point or so favorite. 

     An interesting fact - of the top-ten teams in the kenpom ratings, 9 of them are the top offenses. Only one isn't - Alabama. It raises the question - does defense actually win basketball games.

 UPDATE:  Nate Oats said the Herb Jones is not practicing. He is in South Carolina with the team. He has been having individual workouts (in the pool) with team trainers. They report that he is responding. Here's what Oates said:

Oats said that he and his staff have considered resting him for a game in order for him to heal up.

    "We've talked about if it he doesn't heal up here quickly and makes significant progress sitting him for a game just to see if we can't rest it," Oats said. "We've had that discussion for a week and a half now or so. It just keeps getting better, he keeps feeling like he wants to play and it's hard to tell the kid he's not going to play when the injury is definitely getting better and there's no guarantee that it will get better sitting. It's just that you avoid getting hit if he doesn't play. 

     "We're going to reevaluate that all in the morning."

     After speaking to someone who knows what is going on, I feel like Oats would rather sit him down for the game. Final decision will be left up to Herb. Should Bama build a lead, my opinion is that Oates will sit him as much as possible. Coach Oates might try to split the on this one.

    Can Bama beat SCarolina without Jones. They can, but the shooters need to step up.

                               

   

 

Bama's comeback falls just short...

Alabama loses 69-65 to Mizzou.

   

comp: Missouri Athletic Dept

   Alabama's comeback was there for the taking. Herb Jones missed a layup and then another. We all know that Herb got fouled on the second, but you don't get calls on the road when a game is on the line. Let's be clear, Herb did not lose the game for Bama.  This game was lost by dozens of mistakes from the opening tip-off. It doesn't matter when you make a mistake; in the end, they are all the same. Yesterday, Missouri made a statement about being the best team in the SEC. They took it to the Tide. Still, Alabama made a gallant effort to even have a chance to win the game.

        It speaks volumes about the character of the team and the coaching staff.  The Tide was down by 22. You don't win many games when you are down by 22 points.  You know what killed the Tide?  They were sloppy, and they were not ready to play. Alabama got a wake-up call from Counzo Martin and the Missouri Tigers.  If the Tide wants to win the SEC, they better be ready to play every game on the schedule.

         Nate Oats was concerned about all the publicity his team was getting.  He needs to pump up the volume. He needs Bruner back in the lineup. He needs Herb back at 100%,  Petty and Primo have all but disappeared from the scoring column.  A pat on the back to Keon Ellis. He played hard and was a joy to watch. Perhaps his teammates need to take notice.  The kid wants to be a player. 

     So, the Tide falls to 10-1 in the SEC and now gets ready to play South Carolina on the road. Frank Martin and the Gamecocks don't play soft. They play a mean and aggressive brand of basketball. So did Missouri. If Alabama isn't ready to play, they will lose. I was worried about the Missouri game and am worried about South Carolina. Physically tough teams give Alabama trouble. Let's hope the Tide learned something on Saturday. A loss may better serve Alabama than a come from behind win. Now that all the glitz of being a  projected # 1 seed is over, perhaps Alabama can return to being a better basketball team.  This loss won't kill the Tide. Nate Oates is aware of what his players need to do. 

      Mississippi State beat South Carolina 75-59.  D.J. Stewart wrung the neck of the Gamecocks with 29 big points.  Alabama needs similar efforts from Petty and Shackleford on Tuesday night.  The tide guards need to make some threes. Oats needs to find a way to help the Tide get back into their offense.

      It didn't break my basketball heart to see Ole Miss beat Auburn in a double OT game 86-84. Romello White had 30 pts. He's a big man who could give Alabama a headache. Devontae Shuler, the point guard, hit the winner with .02 seconds left on the clock in the 2nd OT. Shuler had 26. Auburn has dropped to 10-10 for the season and 4-7 in the SEC. Shariff Cooper, who has won every television commentator's praises, has not made Auburn a winning team. 

     Alabama can learn a lot about game preparation in the loss to Mizzou. All the remaining games the Tide plays are winnable, but not with the bombastic attitude the Tide took in that game.

TIDES NUMBERS ARE STILL FINE - 

NET - 9th

RPI - 6th

SOS - 10th

KenPom - 7th

AN INTERESTING FACT:  Of the top 100 teams in the NCAA, guess which team has played teams with the most wins?   ALABAMA opponents have won 197 games.

PREDICTION - I Believe Alabama will finish the regular season at 21-6 or hopefully 22-5. This doesn't count the SEC Tournament. If 'Bama finishes 22-5, the Tide can be a 1-seed. 21-6 will be a 2-seed.  If the Tide wins the SEC Tournament, we should be a 1-seed. 

Tip of the hat - Quinerly played well.

  

Alabama vs. Missouri in the national headliner game...          

(Columbia, Mo.)      Alabama tips-off in a game of national prominence. It's been a long time since the Crimson Tide played in a game that important. Alabama is 7th in the Coaches' Poll, and Missouri is 17th. The game-time is 11:00 CST. ESPN will broadcast the game. Karl Raviech and Jimmy Dykes will do the play by play and color commentary. KenPom and WarrenNolan both have Alabama as a two-point favorite. It's an opportunity for Missouri to pull off an upset to keep some hope of winning the SEC Championship. The Crimson Tide can go 12-0 in the and all but lock up the Conference crown. It will also keep the Tide ascending up the NCAA NET calculations for a better seed on Selection Sunday.   

     Alabama is still without Jordan Bruner. Oats said he will be sidelined for the next four games. Alabama has plugged in Alex Reese, who has played the best basketball of his career at 'Bama with Bruner's absence. Juwan Gary has quietly gotten more minutes and has responded. He can score, rebound, and play defense against much taller opponents. He shut down Trendon Watford in the last game.  James Rojas is slowly regaining his legs after being ill. The three of them will need to slow down big man Jeremiah Tilman, 6-10, who is averaging 13.5 ppg and 8 boards. Tilman averages 65% from the floor. The other Missouri inside player is Kobe Brown, 6-7 power forward, is averaging 6.2 ppg and almost 6 boards per game. Alabama needs to win the battle of the board to allow them to run. If the Tide can control the defensive glass, they can dictate the speed of the game. Bama wants to run and gun. I've seen Missouri play that style in a couple of games, but they struggled on defense. The Tigers only play seven in their rotation. If Bama could get Tilman or Brown in foul trouble, it increases their chances of winning. Reese needs to make a couple of three-pointers to draw Tilman always from the boards.  If Bama comes up big on the offensive glass, you'll see Nate Oats smile. 

     Yesterday, I set out ten things Bama needs to win, and I'll stick by them. Oats wants to see the outside shooting get back on track. If Jahvon Quinerly can dribble and dish, it will happen. If Bama reverses the ball, takes the extra pass, they'll get some good outside shots. Missouri will try to cheat on the outside. Alabam can unleash Shackleford to shake things up. I think we'll see Petty, Shackleford, Primo, and Reese get some chances to make the triples. If Quinerly keeps up the good play, it will help.

    I have to admit to having trepidation over this game. I'm still picking the Tide by a deuce.