As the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team prepares to tip off the 2024-25 season, anticipation is palpable among fans and analysts alike. Ranked No. 2 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, Alabama is set to host the UNC Asheville Bulldogs at Coleman Coliseum as a 27-point favorite on Monday night. This matchup not only marks the season opener but also sets the stage for a Tide campaign filled with high expectations.
Head coach Nate Oats enters his sixth season at the helm, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Under his guidance, the Crimson Tide reached their first-ever Final Four last season, finishing with a 25-12 record. Oats’ up-tempo, three-point-heavy offensive strategy has become a hallmark of Alabama basketball, and this year’s roster is well-equipped to execute his vision.
Leading the charge is senior guard Mark Sears, who returns as the team’s top scorer and was named the preseason SEC Player of the Year. Sears’ ability to create shots and facilitate the offense will be crucial in setting the tone early in the season. Joining him are returning starters Grant Nelson and Latrell Wrightsell, both of whom bring versatility and experience to the lineup.
The Crimson Tide’s offseason was marked by significant additions through both recruiting and the transfer portal. Alabama secured the nation’s No. 3 recruiting class, according to the On3 Rankings, bringing in four true freshmen poised to make an immediate impact. Additionally, four transfers have been integrated into the roster, adding depth and experience across multiple positions.
On the other side of the court, the UNC Asheville Bulldogs are coming off a 20-11 season, including a 12-4 record in the Big South Conference. While the Bulldogs fell short in the 2024 conference championship game, they look to be competitive again in 2024-25. Their roster features key players like Jordan Marsh, a transfer from Appalachian State, and Justin Wright, a candidate for Big South Newcomer of the Year. Two of the team’s top-three scorers from last season, Josh Banks and Fletcher Abee, returned.
Defensively, Alabama will need to focus on containing UNC Asheville’s backcourt, which has shown the ability to score in bunches. The Bulldogs’ proficiency from the free-throw line also suggests that minimizing fouls will be essential for the Crimson Tide. Alabama’s defensive schemes will be tested as they aim to disrupt the Bulldogs’ offensive rhythm.
Offensively, the Crimson Tide’s depth and versatility should pose significant challenges for UNC Asheville. With multiple players capable of scoring from beyond the arc and driving to the basket, Alabama’s offensive sets are designed to keep defenses off balance. The integration of new talent will be on display as Coach Oats looks to establish chemistry early in the season.
This game also serves as an opportunity for Alabama to showcase its commitment to excellence on both ends of the floor. The preseason accolades and high rankings come with expectations, and the Crimson Tide will be eager to demonstrate that they are deserving of the national attention. A strong performance against UNC Asheville would set a positive tone for the challenging schedule ahead.
Fans attending the game at Coleman Coliseum can expect an electric atmosphere, with the home crowd providing a significant boost to the Crimson Tide. The energy in the arena will be a testament to the growing excitement surrounding Alabama basketball and the program’s ascent in recent years.
As the season unfolds, this opener against UNC Asheville will be remembered as the starting point of a 2024-25 season filled with promise and potential. The Crimson Tide’s blend of experienced leadership and fresh talent positions them well for success, and Monday night’s game will offer the first glimpse of what this team is capable of achieving.
Game Details and where to watch/listen:
- Opponent: UNC Asheville Bulldogs (Big South Conference)
- Date: Monday, November 4, 2024
- Time: 8:00 PM CT
- Location: Coleman Coliseum, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
- Live Stats
- Television: ESPNU (PBP: Dave Neal | Analyst: Richard Hendrix)
- Radio: CTSN Radio
- Alabama Ranking: No. 2 in AP and Coaches Polls
- UNC Asheville Ranking: Not ranked
- Game Notes: UNC-Asheville |Â Alabama
prepared by TideFans.com