Women’s Basketball Coaches Poll: Alabama Crimson Tide had an unexpected ranking.
The Alabama Crimson Tide women’s basketball team has long been a competitive force in college basketball, but their 2024-2025 season has brought a surprising level of attention as they unexpectedly secured a high ranking in the latest Coaches Poll. While the Alabama men’s team garners much of the attention in Tuscaloosa, the women’s squad has quietly been making waves, and this recent ranking is a reflection of the team’s progress and growth.
The Crimson Tide’s unexpected ranking in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Poll has ignited discussions around the program’s potential, their rise in the rankings, and what this means for the future of Alabama women’s basketball. This article will explore how Alabama’s women’s basketball team achieved this ranking, what factors contributed to their success, and how this unexpected rise has impacted the team, fans, and the broader Southeastern Conference (SEC).
1. Background of Alabama Women’s Basketball
The Alabama women’s basketball program has a rich history, but it has often been overshadowed by more dominant programs in the SEC. For years, the Crimson Tide have been a consistent contender, but they have not consistently cracked the top ranks of the nation in terms of tournament success. Historically, Alabama has had some notable seasons, with strong individual players and periods of success under various coaching regimes. However, the program has faced challenges in competing with powerhouses like South Carolina, Tennessee, and LSU, schools that have long dominated the SEC.
In recent years, head coach Kristy Curry has helped the program make strides. Since taking over in 2013, Curry has worked tirelessly to build a competitive team that could challenge the status quo of SEC women’s basketball. Under her leadership, Alabama has seen consistent improvements in its record, with a stronger emphasis on recruiting and developing talent. The program’s performance has steadily improved, and now, with a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented newcomers, the Crimson Tide appear poised to make a statement on the national stage.
2. The 2024-2025 Season: A Breakout Year
As the 2024-2025 season began, expectations for Alabama women’s basketball were somewhat modest, though the team had shown potential in previous seasons. However, through a combination of skilled players, improved depth, and excellent coaching, Alabama has managed to exceed those expectations. A standout group of players has led the charge for the Crimson Tide, propelling them to unexpected heights in the Coaches Poll.
At the heart of the Crimson Tide’s success has been senior guard/forward Brittany Davis. Davis, who had been a key contributor in previous seasons, emerged as one of the most dynamic players in the country. Her scoring ability, leadership on the court, and defensive prowess have made her one of the most talked-about players in the SEC. Alongside Davis, Jada Rice, a highly touted transfer forward, has brought both experience and fresh energy to the squad, adding strength in the paint and providing another scoring option for the team.
In addition to individual talent, Alabama’s depth has played a key role in their success. The team’s bench has provided valuable minutes and critical scoring when the starting five needs a rest or faces foul trouble. Coach Curry has done an exceptional job of rotating players to keep the team fresh while maintaining a high level of intensity throughout games. This balance of experienced players and emerging talent has allowed Alabama to compete against some of the toughest teams in the nation and earn respect within the broader basketball community.
3. The Unexpected Rise in the Coaches Poll
In the latest Women’s Basketball Coaches Poll, Alabama found itself ranked in the top 15, a ranking that many experts did not foresee at the start of the season. This ranking represents a significant achievement for the program, marking the first time in several years that Alabama has been so highly regarded in the national conversation. The ranking is a testament to the team’s remarkable start to the season, including key victories over ranked opponents, standout performances in non-conference games, and strong showings in SEC play.
One of the most impressive aspects of Alabama’s rise in the rankings has been the team’s ability to beat ranked teams and hold their own in tight, high-pressure games. The Crimson Tide secured statement wins against teams like LSU, Auburn, and Mississippi State, all of which have been traditionally difficult opponents for Alabama. These wins not only elevated Alabama’s national profile but also demonstrated the team’s growth under Coach Curry’s leadership.
Additionally, Alabama’s solid performances on both ends of the court have garnered attention from national basketball media. The team has been consistently efficient on offense, with Davis leading the charge as one of the league’s top scorers, and their defense has been equally impressive, with the Crimson Tide limiting opponents to low shooting percentages and executing well-coached defensive schemes.
4. Key Factors Contributing to Alabama’s Success
Several key factors have contributed to Alabama’s unexpected ranking in the Coaches Poll, each of which has been crucial in propelling the team forward.
Player Development and Leadership
The development of players like Brittany Davis, Jada Rice, and others has been one of the biggest contributors to Alabama’s rise. Brittany Davis, in particular, has grown into a true leader for the Crimson Tide, displaying the maturity and leadership needed to guide a top-tier program. Her ability to score from all areas of the court, including behind the three-point line, mid-range, and in transition, has been invaluable for Alabama’s offensive schemes.
The presence of experienced leaders in Davis and senior point guard Jasmine Walker has helped Alabama maintain composure in critical moments. Walker’s playmaking ability and her capacity to run the offense efficiently have been key in ensuring the team stays on track throughout games. The growth of underclassmen, such as Ja’Dara Harris and Shakira Austin, who have emerged as significant contributors, further deepens Alabama’s roster and strengthens the team’s overall performance.
Balanced Offense and Defense
Alabama’s success this season has been built on a balanced offensive and defensive approach. On offense, they play an up-tempo style that favors quick transitions and strong shooting, especially from the three-point line. The team’s ability to push the ball and create easy fast-break points has kept opponents on their heels. Alabama is also a strong rebounding team, particularly on the offensive glass, giving them second-chance opportunities.
Defensively, Alabama has been equally efficient, with a focus on forcing turnovers and contesting shots. Coach Curry has instilled a defensive mentality in her players, which has been crucial in securing victories over higher-ranked teams. Alabama has been able to stifle opponents’ offensive schemes and impose their own defensive will, particularly in critical moments of games.
Depth and Rotation
One of the key advantages for Alabama this season has been the depth of its roster. Coach Curry has been able to rotate players effectively, ensuring that no one gets too fatigued while maintaining a high level of performance. This depth has been crucial in Alabama’s ability to win close games, especially when key players have faced foul trouble or injury concerns. The availability of strong bench players, like Makayla Johnson and Tyra Washington, has allowed Alabama to maintain fresh legs and high energy levels throughout games.
Coaching and Strategy
Coach Kristy Curry has played a pivotal role in Alabama’s success this season. Known for her ability to recruit top talent and her keen tactical approach, Curry has built a team that is not only talented but also well-coached. Her focus on developing her players’ individual skills while emphasizing team-oriented basketball has been a winning formula for Alabama. Curry’s ability to adjust her game plan based on opponents’ strengths and weaknesses has been particularly valuable, as evidenced by Alabama’s ability to compete with some of the top teams in the SEC and beyond.
5. The Impact of the Ranking on Alabama Women’s Basketball
The Crimson Tide’s unexpected rise in the Coaches Poll has had a profound impact on the program. First and foremost, it has brought attention to Alabama women’s basketball, a program that often does not receive the same level of media coverage as its men’s counterpart. This ranking has put Alabama on the map as a legitimate contender in the SEC and the national conversation. It has also opened doors for further recruitment, as high school prospects and transfers alike are now taking a closer look at Alabama as a destination for their basketball careers.
Additionally, the ranking has increased excitement and support among Alabama fans. The Crimson Tide’s success has revitalized interest in women’s basketball at the university, and the fan base is eager to see the team continue to rise. Home games at Coleman Coliseum have become more energetic, with students and alumni showing up in support of the team.
Finally, the ranking has raised the stakes for Alabama’s players. With their unexpected rise in the polls, the pressure to perform has increased, and the team will need to maintain their focus and consistency as the season progresses. The target on Alabama’s back has grown, and other teams will be looking to upset the Crimson Tide and knock them down from their perch in the rankings.
6. Looking Ahead: Alabama’s Future in Women’s Basketball
With the unexpected ranking in the Coaches Poll, the Alabama Crimson Tide now find themselves in a position to make a statement in both the SEC tournament and the NCAA tournament. The team’s improved depth, talented roster, and strong leadership have set them up for success in the postseason. If they continue to play at a high level and maintain their focus, Alabama could make a deep run, and their rise to national prominence could be solidified.
The program’s future looks promising, and with continued development and strategic recruiting, Alabama women’s basketball could be on the verge of becoming a perennial powerhouse in the SEC. The unexpected ranking is just the beginning of what could be a transformative era for the Crimson Tide, one where they consistently compete with the best teams in the nation and establish themselves as a dominant force in women’s college basketball.
