Alabama Basketball closed out the 2023 calendar year with promising non-conference wins over lower-level opponents.
The men’s team defeated Liberty by a score of 101-56 on Saturday, continuing its trend of scoring 100+ points when it plays low-to-mid-major competition. The Crimson Tide has eclipsed the century mark in five of its seven games against such opponents.
The Tide shot over 58 percent from the field and 50 percent from the three-point line in the rout of Liberty, and outrebounded the Flames by nearly double (46-24 margin).
Bama fielded six double-figure scorers, led by transfer guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr., who hit five triples and poured in 19 points. Fellow guard Mark Sears hit three treys of his own and contributed 16 points for the Tide. Guard Aaron Estrada approached triple-double territory, notching 13 points and team-highs of 10 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals.
Grant Nelson (12 points), Rylan Griffen (10 points), Sam Walters (10 points), and Jarin Stevenson (nine points) were all significant contributors for Alabama Basketball.
The Crimson Tide will open 2024, and conference play, with a road game at Vanderbilt on January 6th.
The women’s team defeated Mississippi Valley State on New Years’ Eve by a score of 91-26. In this matchup, the Tide was led by four double-figure scorers, including seniors Aaliyah Nye and Sarah Ashlee Barker who had 18 points apiece. Junior Jessica Timmons added 17 points while senior point guard Loyal McQueen contributed 14 points.
The women’s team will open SEC play by hosting Ole Miss on January 4th.