As the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team approaches the latter half of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) schedule, several key areas require attention to enhance their performance and solidify their standing. Despite a commendable 11-2 record in non-conference play, head coach Nate Oats has identified specific aspects that need improvement to navigate the challenges of SEC competition successfully.
1. Defensive Consistency
Defense remains a primary concern for Coach Oats. While the team has shown offensive prowess, their defensive metrics indicate room for growth. Alabama ranks 46th nationally in defensive efficiency, allowing 98.3 points per 100 possessions. Notably, in seven of their 13 non-conference games, the Crimson Tide conceded 80 or more points, highlighting vulnerabilities that SEC opponents may exploit. Oats emphasizes the need for players to take individual pride in their defense, particularly in preventing opponents from penetrating the lane. Enhancing rim protection is also crucial, with expectations for players like Clifford Omoruyi, Grant Nelson, and Aiden Sherrell to elevate their defensive contributions.
2. Three-Point Shooting Efficiency
Alabama’s offensive strategy heavily relies on three-point shooting; however, the team’s current performance in this area has been subpar. The Crimson Tide is shooting just 31.6% from beyond the arc, placing them last in the SEC. This inefficiency is surprising, given the roster’s array of proven shooters. Coach Oats stresses the importance of selecting better shots and ensuring that the right players are taking these attempts. He remains optimistic that with continued practice and strategic shot selection, the team’s three-point percentage will improve as the season progresses.
3. Turnover Management
Turnovers have been a persistent issue for Alabama, with the team recording a negative turnover margin of -1.85, the lowest in the SEC. Protecting the basketball is essential, especially against high-caliber SEC defenses that can capitalize on such mistakes. Reducing unforced errors and making smarter decisions during offensive plays will be pivotal in maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo.
4. Offensive Rebounding
Securing offensive rebounds provides additional scoring opportunities and can compensate for shooting inefficiencies. Coach Oats highlights the need for the team to excel in this area, particularly when three-point shots aren’t falling. By aggressively pursuing offensive boards, Alabama can extend possessions and increase their chances of scoring, which is crucial in tightly contested SEC matchups.
5. Post Defense Against Dominant Big Men
The Crimson Tide has faced challenges defending against formidable post players, as evidenced in their non-conference schedule. For instance, South Dakota State’s Oscar Cluff recorded 21 points and 15 rebounds against Alabama, exposing weaknesses in interior defense. As the team prepares to face SEC opponents with strong frontcourt players, improving post defense will be essential. This includes better positioning, anticipation, and physicality to limit opponents’ effectiveness in the paint.
