In a high-scoring affair at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide secured a 97-90 victory over the North Dakota Fighting Hawks on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. The game was marked by standout performances from both teams, with Alabama’s Grant Nelson and North Dakota’s Treysen Eaglestaff leading the scoring for their respective squads.
Grant Nelson, a native of Devils Lake, North Dakota, returned to his home state and delivered a double-double, contributing 23 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocked shots to Alabama’s effort. Reflecting on the experience, Nelson stated, “It was special to play here again, but more important was getting the win with my team.”
North Dakota’s Treysen Eaglestaff was a formidable opponent, achieving career highs with 40 points and eight three-pointers.
The first half was tightly contested, with North Dakota leading 38-35 at halftime. Alabama’s early struggles with turnovers and second-chance points allowed the Fighting Hawks to maintain the advantage. However, the Crimson Tide adjusted in the second half, implementing a more aggressive defense and capitalizing on offensive rebounds to shift momentum in their favor. Overall, the Tide trailed for 21 minutes during the contest.
Alabama’s backcourt was instrumental in the victory. Senior guard Mark Sears matched Nelson’s scoring output with 23 points and added five assists, demonstrating leadership and poise under pressure. Freshman guard Labaron Philon contributed 16 points, showcasing his potential as a rising star for the Crimson Tide.
North Dakota’s Eli King provided significant support to Eaglestaff, particularly in the second half, where his timely three-pointer tied the game at 85 with just over two minutes remaining. King’s efforts were crucial in keeping the Fighting Hawks within striking distance during the game’s closing moments.
In the final minutes, Alabama’s experience and depth proved decisive. Nelson’s jumper with 1:47 left broke an 85-85 tie, and the Crimson Tide’s proficiency from the free-throw line in the waning seconds secured the win. Head coach Nate Oats remarked, “It doesn’t hurt to face some adversity on the road.”
With this victory, Alabama improved to 9-2 on the season. The Crimson Tide will return home to face the Kent State Golden Flashes on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Coleman Coliseum.
Recap by TideFans.com