Alabama Men Basketball: With just seven days remaining until the Alabama men’s basketball team kicks off a fresh regular season, anticipation is building among Crimson Tide fans. The team recently engaged in a charity exhibition on Oct. 29 against Wake Forest in Winston-Salem, N.C., ending with a close 88-80 loss. Despite a strong second half, the defending SEC champions couldn’t secure victory against the home team.
Earlier on Oct. 22, the No. 24 Crimson Tide faced off against Jamie Dixon and TCU in a secret scrimmage, resulting in an 85-81 defeat. While these outcomes don’t officially impact the season record, two exhibition losses might raise eyebrows. In the Wake Forest game, Alabama let a 19-point lead slip away, prompting disappointment from Head Coach Nate Oats regarding the team’s complacency.
Should Crimson Tide fans be concerned?
The regular season hasn’t officially commenced, softening the blow of these early losses. It’s still October, providing time for the roster to solidify its chemistry. Despite the setbacks, there are promising signs in the games. Freshman Sam Walters, coming off a remarkable 29-point performance against the Horned Frogs, continued to shine against Wake Forest. Another newcomer, Aaron Estrada, a transfer from Hofstra, made an impact with 24 points against the Demon Deacons. Notably, the team played without the services of returning player Mark Sears, sidelined due to injury during the exhibitions.
The Crimson Tide is gearing up for the official start of the 2023-24 regular season with a matchup against Morehead State on Nov. 6. As the team navigates these early challenges, fans eagerly await the journey ahead in Alabama basketball.
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