Charles Barkley doesn't like giving Alabama credit unless he has to. Even he couldn't help but do so after the Crimson Tide totally dominated the first half of its second-round NCAA Tournament matchup against Texas Tech,
Barkley, along with Seth Davis and Clark Kellogg, predicted Texas Tech to beat Alabama in the CBS pregame show.
But at halftime with Alabama leading 49-25 after a dominant first 20 minutes of action, even Barkley couldn't help but give Nate Oats and the Crimson Tide credit.
"That wasn't a whole lot of fun for me," Barkley said at halftime. "But I will say this: that was impressive. That was the best defense I've seen Alabama play. ...I gotta give them their flowers. Roll Tide."
Charles Barkley gives Alabama a "Roll Tide" after big first half against Texas Tech
Alabama's defensive effort, keyed by Latrell Wrightsell totally shutting down Texas Tech star guard Christian Anderson, helped Alabama build the lead. And Alabama's effort on the glass was critical as well with the Crimson Tide shooting undeer 44% from the floor.
Alabama dominated the glass, outrebounding Texas Tech 30-16 and doubling them up on offensive boards.
Labaron Philon struggled with just seven points on 2-of-9 shooting, making the Crimson Tide's 24-point halftime edge that much more impressive.
It was a balanced act. Aiden Sherrell led the Tide with 10 points, but Wrightsell and Houston Mallette added nine points apiece. Even Noah Williamson got in on the action, scoring a bucket underneath and hitting a corner three for the second game in a row.
There's still a whole half to play, and Alabama cannot let up. The Red Raiders are talented and well-coached; they won't go down quietly in the second half.
As nice as it was to hear Barkley give Alabama its flowers after the first 20 minutes, there's nothing he would like more than to take them back if the Tide blows a big lead.