Labaron Philon makes Alabama history in leading the Holloway-less Tide past Hofstra

Alabama basketball looked a bit more limited offensively without Aden Holloway in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, as expected. But the Crimson Tide parlayed a strong overall defensive performance and a big game from Labaron Philon into a 90-70 win over Hofstra to advance to the second round against Texas Tech on Sunday.

Philon put the Crimson Tide on his back, leading the way with 29 points on 10-of-18 from the floor. He added eight rebounds and seven assists, to boot. He looked every bit like the lottery pick he has the chance to be in June.

And he happened to make some Alabama history in the process.

Philon's second bucket of the game put him past Alabama legend James "Hollywood" Robinson for the most points by a sophomore in Crimson Tide history.

Labaron Philon surpasses Hollywood Robinson while leading Alabama to the Round of 32

Alabama is going to need Philon to don his Superman cape for the remainder of the tournament to have a shot at making any kind of run. The Crimson Tide's offensive ceiling is a lot lower without Holloway's ability to win off the dribble and knock down threes.

But on the other hand, Alabama's defense is a bit better, and the Crimson Tide can play bigger lineups around Philon instead of playing a small backcourt.

That paid dividends as Alabama held Hofstra to just 70 points while forcing 12 turnovers and blocking six shots.

Alabama has to play differently without Holloway, but it can still be a really good team. It just has to bring the requisite effort on the defensive end, and Philon has to play at a superstar level and avoid any off nights.

Texas Tech will be a tremendous challenge in the Round of 32 for the Crimson Tide. But if the Crimson Tide brings their lunch pails, and Philon brings his cape, then Alabama can get to the second weekend for a fourth straight season.