What will it take for Alabama basketball to win the region?
The NCAA Tournament is finally back, and Alabama basketball is hoping to go on a run for the ages. The Tide already have both SEC titles for the year, but they want more in Indianapolis.
Alabama has a new identity this season. They have improved on defense and emphasized offensive efficiency. Still, anything can happen in the NCAA Tournament. Upsets are common, and Alabama’s region includes teams like Michigan and Texas.
Reaching the Final Four would be a massive accomplishment for Alabama basketball, but what will it take to get there? Here are the keys for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
3. John Petty needs to get hot again
In the postseason, every team turns to the veterans. That will matter more for Alabama than most teams. The seniors are the only players on the roster with experience in the NCAA Tournament. Alabama will turn to Herb Jones, John Petty and the rest of the upperclassmen.
Specifically, Petty needs to heat back up. Consistency issues have plagued his entire collegiate career. He was more consistent this regular season, but shots were not falling in the SEC Tournament. That led to games that were a little too close for comfort.
Petty can be a difference-maker with his perimeter shooting. If he is knocking down threes, there is little that any defense can do. Alabama can potentially make the Final Four if Petty stays cold, but the path will be a lot tougher without his offensive production.
Petty has what it takes to take over the tournament, but he needs to put it all together.