The Alabama basketball team is preparing for a highly anticipated primetime matchup against No. 8 Creighton. With a current record of 6-3, the Crimson Tide is facing the second game in a challenging three-game road series, marking the toughest stretch of the season. Following a notable improvement in their recent loss to Purdue, Alabama must elevate their defensive game against Creighton, known for its stellar offence, averaging 84.5 points per game.
The highly-anticipated game is set to commence at 7:10 p.m. CT on FOX, with live updates available to fans as the action unfolds.
First Half Recap
Creighton took an early lead of 8-1 with 17:36 remaining in the first half. Alabama’s first point came from a free throw by Wague, while Creighton managed to sink two 3-pointers. Both teams made adjustments, with Jarin Stevenson and Griffen coming off the bench for UA and Creighton leading 10-3 at the under-16 media timeout.
As the first half progressed, Alabama narrowed the gap, trailing Creighton 14-12 with 12:35 remaining. Stevenson, a forward, contributed a crucial 3-pointer for the team, and the momentum shifted further in Alabama’s favour when Kalkbrenner, Creighton’s 7-foot-1 center, left the court due to an ankle injury. Estrada tied the game at 14 apiece with a layup, and Creighton went scoreless for over two minutes.
With 7:39 left in the first half, Creighton held a narrow lead of 25-23. Alabama’s Nick Pringle made a significant impact, scoring seven points with a combination of alley-oop finishes and a free throw. Both teams utilised consistent dribble-drive penetration, resulting in 18 points in the paint for UA.
Pregame
The starting lineup for Alabama included Mark Sears, Latrell Wrightsell, Aaron Estrada, Grant Nelson, and Mohamed Wague, while Creighton’s lineup featured Steven Ashworth, Trey Alexander, Baylor Scheierman, Mason Miller, and Ryan Kalkbrenner.
Transfer guard Wrightsell made his first start of the year, replacing Rylan Griffen. Wrightsell, who hails from Omaha, has been averaging 6.3 points per game.
For comprehensive coverage of Alabama basketball and further updates, fans can follow reporter Nick Alvarez on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or contact him via email at [email protected].
The matchup between Alabama and Creighton promises to provide an exhilarating second half of basketball action. Stay tuned for more updates as the game progresses.