In its first game of the 2023-24 season against high-major competition, Alabama Basketball fell to the Ohio State Buckeyes by a score of 92-81 at the Emerald Coast Classic in Destin, Florida.
After dominating lower-level competition in its first three games, Bama struggled defensively against its Big Ten opponent. It allowed Ohio State to shoot 54 percent from the field, including 10-18 (55.6 percent) from the three-point line. The Crimson Tide was also outrebounded by a margin of 32-24.
Alabama Basketball was led by transfer forward Grant Nelson, who poured in 20 points, adding six rebounds and three blocks. Each of these figures led the team. Transfer guard Aaron Estrada contributed 19 points and four assists, while veteran guard Mark Sears gave the Crimson Tide 17 points, four assists, and three steals.
Bama surrendered 29 points to Ohio State sophomore guard Bruce Thornton, and 23 more to fellow sophomore guard Roddy Gayle Jr. The Tide will have to be more competitive against physical backcourts going forward.
Alabama Basketball will face another test this afternoon when it takes on the Oregon Ducks in the third-place game. Oregon will also feature a formidable backcourt, led by former South Carolina guard Jermaine Couisnard.
It would benefit the Tide, both in terms of resume and confidence, to get a win over a power conference opponent before leaving Destin. After playing Oregon, Bama will head back to Tuscaloosa where it will face Clemson and have another opportunity for a quality win.
Alabama Basketball has proven it is one of the more potent offensive teams in college basketball. Coach Nate Oats faces the task of getting its defense, toughness, and rebounding up to par.
If this team can find a championship level of grit, it will be very tough to beat. It has plenty of time to improve, including the entire SEC season. Still, it would do well to start getting quality wins now in non-conference play.