The Alabama Crimson Tide were back in action late Wednesday night, as the program traveled far away from Tuscaloosa for a true road game against the North Dakota Fighting Hawks.
In what was certainly unfamiliar territory for the Crimson Tide, Alabama originally struggled early-on during this contest, even trailing going into halftime by a score of 38-35.
However, Alabama would eventually rebound in the second half, and went on to survive this trip with a close, 97-90 victory in the end, even despite North Dakota receiving a game-high 40 points from star Treysen Eaglestaff, while also shooting a combined 41.5% from three.
Let’s take a look at a few instant reactions to Alabama’s road victory at North Dakota:
Welcome home, Grant Nelson
Alabama forward Grant Nelson returned to his home state of North Dakota on Wednesday night, and was back with an impressive performance to lead the Crimson Tide. Nelson finished with a double-double at 23 points – which tied a team-high – 10 rebounds, two assists, and three blocks on 9-of-14 shooting from the field.
5 Alabama scorers in double-figures
Nelson, who had 23 points, was not the only Alabama player to score in double-figures Wednesday night. Joining the Alabama forward was Mark Sears with 23 as well, along with Labaron Philon (16), Houston Mallette (10), and Chris Youngblood (10).
Alabama dominates points in paint
While the Crimson Tide did knock down their fair share of three’s in this win, Alabama’s biggest advantage was in the paint. Alabama dominated the points in the paint a combined 44-22, while also holding a significant advantage in fast break points at 21-4.
Alabama struggles at free throw line
Despite an overall solid shooting game, Alabama struggled at the free throw line Wednesday night. In all, the Crimson Tide went a combined 20-for-30 (66.7%) at the line.
Alabama now sits at 9-2 overall
With this result against North Dakota, Alabama now improves to 9-2 overall for the 2024-25 season. The Crimson Tide’s next game will be Sunday, Dec. 22 at home against Kent State.