Number 4 seed Alabama rolled past the No. 5 seed Texas Tech 90-65 to advance to their fourth straight Sweet 16.
The Crimson Tide got off to a fast start and maintained defensive intensity throughout the game, leaving no doubt who would be victorious. Alabama made 19 three-point baskets, leading to the 25-point victory.
Here are a few takeaways from the game.
- Quick Start
Normally, Alabama finds itself down early in the first half and has to make a comeback. Tonight, the Crimson Tide finally got out to a fast start, and it paid off. In the first half, Alabama outplayed and outhustled Texas Tech for 20 minutes. The Crimson Tide played lockdown defense and outrebounded the Red Raiders, leading to a 49-25 at the half.
- Rebounding With Purpose
Another weakness for this Alabama team at times is rebounding. The Crimson Tide came out of the gate, setting the tone on the glass. In the first half, Alabama outrebounded Texas Tech 30-16. Of the 30 first-half rebounds, 12 were on the offensive glass, and the Crimson Tide converted them into eight second-chance points. Alabama finished the game with a 47-35 rebounding advantage.
- Defensive Intensity
Defense has looked optional at times this season, but Alabama came out Sunday night with a different kind of intensity on the defensive end. Players were flying around playing lockdown defense and forcing turnovers and tough shots. The Crimson Tide forced Texas Tech to turn the ball over 10 times, which led to 18 points off turnovers.
- Three Point Shooting
The three pointers were falling at a high rate for Alabama on Sunday night. Everyone on the Crimson Tide roster was getting in on the action as Alabama had seven different players sink a three-point basket. The Crimson Tide finished the night making 19 three pointers, led by Latrell Wrightsell’s seven made threes. Not far behind Wrightsell was Houston Mallette, who chipped in six made threes.
No. 4 seed Alabama will face the No. 1 seed Michigan on Friday, March 27, at 6:35 p.m. in the Sweet 16.
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