Alabama Basketball: 3 takeaways from Tide’s win vs. Kentucky

What did we learn from Alabama basketball beating Kentucky?

The Kentucky Wildcats brought their all against Alabama basketball in Tuscaloosa, but the Crimson Tide still prevailed. The Tide overcame an abysmal shooting performance by their standards in an emotional game against one of the perennial powerhouses in the SEC. Even though Kentucky hasn’t been living up to their standard this season, they are always a tough team to face, and we saw that in this game.

So, what are the takeaways from this gritty win for the Crimson Tide?

3. Alabama is officially battle-tested

College basketball is naturally a game of runs. Teams can get hot for a few games, and that is why upsets can be so lopsided. However, the length of this winning streak proves that this isn’t a fluke. Not only has Alabama blown out plenty of teams, but they have won close games against quality opponents.

Kentucky had all sorts of momentum in this game down the stretch. However, Alabama weathered the storm and make the key plays when they mattered most. They drained clutch shots in the final moments, and this experience will help the Tide on their NCAA Tournament run. This was a pivotal game for Alabama, and we could look back at this moment as a turning point.

2. Alabama doesn’t have to drain threes

The issue with teams that shoot so many threes is that shots sometimes won’t fall. Alabama has a history of inconsistent shooting, but they have been shattering records so far this season. A major concern with their tournament viability was how they would respond if they were missing shots. We learned that against Kentucky.

Alabama went 6-for-20 from the three-point line. So, how did they play in this situation? They didn’t force shots. Instead, they drove the ball and still found quality looks. They also drained their free throws. Defensively, they drew charges and cleaned the glass. Alabama basketball showed its versatility against the Wildcats, and that speaks well to their NCAA Tournament hopes.

1. There is still room for the Tide to grow

Alabama is on the rise. Many wonder when they will peak. No matter how good things look now, things will only get better. Herb Jones battled in this game, but he was clearly battling an injury. Alex Reese had an injury early in this game, and Jordan Bruner is still unavailable.

If Alabama can get fully healthy by the postseason, this will be one of the most dangerous teams in college basketball.