In a significant Southeastern Conference matchup on January 14, 2025, the No. 21 Ole Miss Rebels secured a 74-64 victory over the No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa. The win earned the Rebels their first-ever victory against a top 4 team on the road. Ole Miss is now 1-34 in those matchups.
Ole Miss center Malik Dia delivered a standout performance, recording 23 points and 19 rebounds. His dominance in the paint was a critical factor in the Rebels’ success. Supporting Dia, guards Jaylen Murray and Jaemyn Brakefield each contributed 13 points, providing the offensive balance necessary to overcome Alabama’s defense.
The Rebels’ defensive strategy was equally impactful, forcing 21 turnovers from the Crimson Tide. This pressure disrupted Alabama’s offensive rhythm, limiting the Tide’s typically high-scoring output.
For Alabama, addressing turnover issues and refining offensive execution will be focal points in practice leading up to their next game. Alabama Coach Nate Oats, clearly frustrated with the team’s dismal showing, stated, “I have to do a better job of making sure guys are ready to go…The most disappointing thing tonight was the lack of effort on the offensive glass.”
Alabama, known for averaging over 90 points per game, struggled to find their offensive footing, managing only 64 points. Guard Aden Holloway led the Crimson Tide with 15 points, while Mark Sears, the SEC’s leading scorer, was held to 11 points. The team’s 21 turnovers were a season high, reflecting the challenges posed by Ole Miss’s defense.
The game remained competitive through the first half, with both teams exchanging leads. However, Ole Miss capitalized on Alabama’s turnovers in the second half, outscoring the Crimson Tide and securing the win. This victory marked the Rebels’ first win in Tuscaloosa since 2015 and their first road win against an AP Top 5 team in 35 attempts.
The loss brings Alabama’s record to 14-3 overall and 3-1 in SEC play.
Looking ahead, Alabama will aim to rebound as they prepare to face Kentucky on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in Lexington.