No. 4 seed Alabama avoided the first round upset and advanced to the second round on Friday, blowing out No. 13 seed Charleston 109-96.
Alabama was back to their mid-season form on Friday night in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, setting a school record for points in the NCAA Tournament with 109. Led by Mark Sears’ 30 points, the 109 points made for the tenth time this season Alabama has scored at least 100 points.
Here are a few takeaways from the game.
Strong Showing From Sears
Mark Sears set the tone early for Alabama with his quick start. Sears rattled off 20 first half points to provide the Crimson Tide with a 51-34 lead at halftime. Charleston had no answer for his drives to the basket, resulting in either a made layup or a trip to the free throw line. Sears finished the game with a game-high 30 points.
Nation’s No. 1 Offense Thrives
Alabama showed why they are the nation’s top offense Friday night. The Crimson Tide’s was on full display as Alabama scored 109 points, eclipsing the century mark for the 10th time this season. Three-pointers were falling and drives to the basket were on full display for the Crimson Tide.
Fast in Transition
Alabama is at its best when it plays fast. On Friday, the Crimson Tide dictated the pace and had their way in transition against Charleston. Alabama used the fast pace to its advantage, scoring 25 fast break points while limiting Charleston to just 10 points in transition.
Three-Point Shooting Back to Normal
Alabama finished the regular season struggling from behind the arc, but it appears that the slump is over. The Crimson Tide went 13-for-23 on three-pointers led by a game-high five three-pointers from Latrell Wrightsell, Jr.
No. 4 seed Alabama will face the winner of the Saint Mary’s and Grand Canyon on Sunday.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
