After an impressive victory over the Houston Cougars on Tuesday night, the Alabama Crimson Tide were back in action Wednesday at the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada, facing off against yet another tough opponent in the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
Alabama would continue their success from the night prior as well, going on to defeat the Scarlet Knights by a final score of 95-90 in a game that was close for a majority.
Here are some instant reactions to Alabama’s 95-90 victory over the Scarlet Knights:
Alabama struggles at free throw line
Despite the win, this was not a strong showing Wednesday night from the Crimson Tide at the free throw line. In all, Alabama struggled by making only 25-of-36 attempts, which translates to a combined 69.4%.
Alabama struggles with turnovers
Alabama also struggled mightily Wednesday night when it came to committing turnovers. The Crimson Tide had a total of 20, which Rutgers turned into 23 points.
Mark Sears scores 20+ points again
Despite playing part of the second half with four fouls, guard Mark Sears was once again a big reason as to why Alabama won Wednesday, scoring 20+ points for the second consecutive game. Sears finished with a team-high 24 points, as well as five assists.
Two Alabama players flirt with double-doubles
A pair of Alabama players flirted with a double-double against Rutgers, one of which was forward Mouhamed Dioubate, who finished with 10 points and eight rebounds after posting a double-double Tuesday against Houston. Grant Nelson also flirted with a double-double, posting 17 points and nine rebounds.
Alabama Crimson Tide now 6-1 overall, advances to championship game
After their victory over the Scarlet Knights on Wednesday night, Alabama is now 6-1 overall for the 2024-25 season. The Crimson Tide’s next game will come Saturday against the Oregon Ducks on Saturday night in the Players Era Festival championship game.