In a highly anticipated early-season matchup, the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide faced off against the No. 13 Purdue Boilermakers on November 15, 2024, at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Indiana. Both teams, fresh off Final Four appearances last season, aimed to assert their dominance in this non-conference showdown.
The game commenced with Alabama showcasing its trademark fast-paced offense, led by senior guard Mark Sears, who contributed 15 points and six assists. However, Purdue’s defense, anchored by junior forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, who scored a career-high 26 points and grabbed eight rebounds, effectively disrupted Alabama’s rhythm. Kaufman-Renn’s performance was instrumental in Purdue’s 87-78 victory.
Alabama’s freshman guard Labaron Philon emerged as a bright spot, tallying 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting before fouling out. Forward Grant Nelson added a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds but also fouled out, highlighting the team’s struggles with foul trouble throughout the game.
Purdue’s backcourt duo of Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer combined for 34 points, with Smith also dishing out 10 assists and securing six rebounds. Their efficient ball movement and perimeter shooting kept Alabama’s defense on its heels.
A pivotal moment occurred midway through the second half when Purdue, trailing by six, orchestrated a 13-0 run. Sophomore guard C.J. Cox was instrumental during this stretch, hitting three consecutive three-pointers, shifting the momentum firmly in Purdue’s favor.
Alabama’s shooting woes were evident, particularly from beyond the arc, where they connected on just 9 of 29 attempts (31%). In contrast, Purdue showcased remarkable efficiency, shooting 9 of 16 (56.3%) from three-point range. Additionally, the Boilermakers’ discipline was evident as they committed only three turnovers compared to Alabama’s 12.
Post-game, Alabama head coach Nate Oats expressed his frustration, “We got beat up in the post a little more than what I thought. The coaching staff has to do a better job of preparing our guys to defend the post and we didn’t do a good job of getting our shooters open.”
Oats also acknowledged the team’s potential, noting, “We schedule these games for a reason. We like to go against the best teams in the country and figure out what we’ve got to work on. We’ve got plenty to work on after this game.”
This loss serves as a wake-up call for the Crimson Tide, emphasizing the need for improved discipline and consistency, especially against top-tier opponents. The team’s depth and talent are undeniable, but translating that into victories requires sustained effort and focus.
What’s Up Next for Alabama
Alabama will look to rebound as they face Illinois on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM CT. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, with radio coverage available on the Crimson Tide Sports Network. Illinois, currently ranked No. 15, presents another formidable challenge, boasting a balanced attack and a strong defensive presence.
Game Stats
| STATISTIC |
ALABAMA
|
PURDUE
|
|---|---|---|
| FG% | 28-63 / 44% | 31-63 / 49% |
| 3FG% | 9-29 / 31% | 9-16 / 56% |
| FT% | 13-15 / 87% | 16-25 / 64% |
| TOs | 8 | 3 |
| Total Rebounds | 37 | 35 |
| Bench Points | 33 | 27 |
| Blocks | 6 | 4 |
| Steals | 1 | 2 |
| Assists | 18 | 18 |
| Lead Time | 5:22 | 29:47 |
Report by TideFans.com