The Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team is set to face the Illinois Fighting Illini tonight in the C.M. Newton Classic at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. This matchup features two ranked teams: Alabama, currently holding the No. 8 spot, and Illinois, positioned at No. 25. Both teams aim to solidify their standings early in the 2024-25 season.
Alabama enters the game with a 3-1 record, recently experiencing their first loss against Purdue. The Crimson Tide’s offense has been prolific, averaging 87.0 points per game, ranking them 52nd nationally. Defensively, they allow 71.0 points per game, placing them 187th in the nation. Their scoring margin of +16.0 points per game reflects a balanced approach on both ends of the court.
Leading Alabama’s offense is guard Mark Sears, who averages 17.3 points per game. Sears also contributes 4.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game, showcasing his versatility. Forward Grant Nelson adds a significant presence in the paint, averaging 5.9 rebounds per game. The team’s perimeter shooting is bolstered by Latrell Wrightsell Jr., who averages 2.5 three-pointers per game.
Illinois arrives with an unblemished 3-0 record, demonstrating strong performances on both offense and defense. The Fighting Illini average 89.3 points per game, ranking 27th nationally, while allowing just 59.7 points per game, placing them 23rd in defensive rankings. Their scoring margin of +29.6 points per game indicates a dominant start to the season.
Sophomore 7’1″ center Tomislav Ivisic leads Illinois, averaging 17.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. Freshman forward Will Riley contributes a team-high 17.7 points per game, highlighting the impact of Illinois’ underclassmen. Freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis adds depth with averages of 9.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game.
A key factor in this matchup will be the battle on the boards. Illinois averages 47.3 rebounds per game, ranking 7th nationally, while Alabama averages 42.5 rebounds per game, placing them 14th. Clifford Omoruyi leads the Tide averaging 7.8 rebounds per game. Controlling the glass could provide a significant advantage in this contest.
Both teams exhibit strong perimeter play. Illinois averages 12.7 three-pointers made per game, ranking 4th nationally, with a shooting percentage of 36.2%. Alabama averages 8.5 three-pointers per game, shooting 33.3%. Alabama, known for running an offense that emphasizes only 3-pointers and layups, has been inconsistent so far this year from beyond the arc.
Turnover management is another critical aspect. Alabama commits 10.3 turnovers per game while forcing 8.3, resulting in a turnover margin of -2.0. Illinois’ ability to capitalize on these turnovers could influence the game’s outcome.
This game also serves as a test of depth and bench production. Both teams have relied on their starters for significant contributions. The performance of role players and bench scoring could provide the necessary edge in a closely contested game.
Game Summary:
- Date and Time: Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET
- Television Network: SEC Network
- Radio: Listen
- Location: Legacy Arena at the BJCC, Birmingham, Alabama
- Rankings: Alabama (#8), Illinois (#25)
- Game Notes: Alabama | Illinois
- Tickets
- Series History: Alabama leads 3-1
- Last matchup: 3/17/2015 Alabama defeated Illinois 79-58
Report by TideFans.com