The good, the bad and the ugly for Alabama in 94-85 loss over Auburn

When Alabama’s basketball team took the court against their archrivals Auburn in a high-stakes SEC matchup, expectations were running high. Both teams entered the game with championship aspirations, and the rivalry between the Crimson Tide and the Tigers only added fuel to the already intense atmosphere. However, despite a valiant effort, Alabama suffered a 94-85 loss that was both disappointing and telling. The game exposed several strengths and weaknesses, leading to a mix of reactions: the good, the bad, and the ugly.

The Good: Offensive Firepower and Resilience

One of the most notable aspects of Alabama’s performance, even in the face of defeat, was the sheer offensive firepower they displayed. Despite struggling at times, the Crimson Tide were able to score at will in certain stretches of the game, showing just how dangerous their offense can be when it’s clicking. Alabama finished the game with a respectable 85 points, and it was clear that when their offense was in rhythm, they were capable of putting up big numbers.

Balanced Scoring Attack

Alabama’s offensive strategy was built on ball movement, spacing, and attacking the rim. They had a balanced scoring attack with multiple players stepping up to contribute. Brandon Miller, the standout freshman who has been a sensation all season, led the way with 24 points. His ability to hit both contested jumpers and drive to the basket showed that he could be a future star in the making. Miller’s versatility on the court was on full display, and his smooth shooting touch from beyond the arc helped keep Alabama in the game.

Jahvon Quinerly, the veteran point guard, also had a strong performance, scoring 18 points and distributing several assists. His leadership and experience were key in trying to keep Alabama competitive, especially during moments when Auburn went on runs. Quinerly’s ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates is one of the reasons he’s a key player for the Crimson Tide.

Alabama also got solid contributions from Noah Clowney and Mark Sears, who each added significant points and helped keep the offense flowing. At times, Alabama’s offense looked potent, and they were able to push the pace in transition, which is when they are at their best. With speed and athleticism, Alabama’s offensive game can be overwhelming, and moments of brilliance showcased the potential of their system.

Fighting Back After Deficits

The Crimson Tide showed resilience when they found themselves trailing by double digits. After Auburn had built an early lead, Alabama fought back to keep the game within reach. There was a noticeable sense of urgency and determination, particularly after the second half began, where Alabama quickly cut Auburn’s lead down to just a few points. Their ability to respond to adversity, and claw their way back into the game, was a testament to the character and fight of this team. Despite ultimately falling short, the way Alabama rallied was something that fans could look to as a positive sign moving forward.

The Bad: Defensive Struggles and Lack of Consistency

While Alabama’s offense showed flashes of brilliance, their defense was another story. Throughout the game, Auburn took advantage of Alabama’s defensive lapses, particularly in transition and in the paint. The inability to consistently lock down Auburn’s shooters and limit easy baskets allowed the Tigers to keep the scoreboard ticking.

Defensive Lapses in Transition

One of the most glaring issues for Alabama was their inability to defend in transition. Auburn was able to push the ball up the floor quickly and efficiently, often getting easy layups or open three-point opportunities before Alabama’s defense could settle into a set. Auburn scored 24 fast-break points in the game, a number that is simply too high for a team that prides itself on its defense. With Alabama’s up-tempo style, they often take risks by pressing and trying to force turnovers, but on this night, that approach backfired as Auburn was able to capitalize on fast-break opportunities.

Inability to Guard the Perimeter

Another area where Alabama’s defense struggled was on the perimeter. Auburn hit 12 three-pointers during the game, shooting 38% from beyond the arc. This was a significant issue, as Alabama was unable to contest shots effectively or close out on Auburn’s shooters. Despite having talented defenders like Miller and Clowney, the Crimson Tide’s perimeter defense was porous, and Auburn took full advantage. Whether it was uncontested looks or well-executed pick-and-rolls, Alabama had no answer for Auburn’s outside shooting. This lack of defensive pressure on the three-point line allowed Auburn to get comfortable, and they capitalized on it in a big way.

Foul Trouble and Defensive Rebounding

In addition to the perimeter defense, Alabama also struggled with foul trouble and securing defensive rebounds. The Crimson Tide picked up 18 fouls in the game, putting Auburn in the bonus multiple times and allowing the Tigers to get to the free-throw line at critical junctures. In a high-scoring game, free-throw opportunities are valuable, and Auburn capitalized on those moments, shooting 77% from the charity stripe.

Rebounding was another issue for Alabama, especially on the defensive end. Despite having a size advantage, the Crimson Tide were consistently outmuscled by Auburn’s forwards and centers. The Tigers grabbed 11 offensive rebounds, many of which led to second-chance points. Alabama’s inability to secure the defensive glass meant that Auburn had multiple opportunities to extend possessions and build momentum.

The Ugly: Late-Game Collapse and Missed Opportunities

Despite the fight that Alabama showed, particularly in the second half, there were moments when the game got away from them — and those moments were nothing short of ugly. The game’s final stretch exposed Alabama’s lack of execution down the stretch, and it was clear that the team was struggling to close out a competitive game.

Failure to Execute in Clutch Moments

When the game reached the final five minutes, Alabama found themselves down by just a few points and still very much in contention. However, they failed to execute in key moments, whether it was missed open shots, poor shot selection, or turnovers. Alabama had a few opportunities to pull within one or even take the lead, but each time, they faltered. Instead of being patient and working for a high-quality look, Alabama rushed possessions and ended up taking contested shots or turning the ball over to give Auburn easy opportunities.

Auburn, on the other hand, was able to execute with poise in the final minutes. They managed the clock well, hit timely shots, and were able to extend their lead by capitalizing on Alabama’s mistakes. This stark contrast in how both teams handled the end of the game was one of the ugliest aspects of the contest.

Inconsistent Decision-Making

Throughout the game, Alabama’s decision-making was inconsistent. There were stretches where the Crimson Tide showed great ball movement and unselfish play, but at other times, they played out of control. Alabama’s fast-paced style, while usually effective, led to moments of chaos and poor shot selection. The team became too reliant on quick strikes and three-point shooting, and in doing so, they missed opportunities to run more efficient offense. It felt like the Crimson Tide were trying to score 20 points in one possession instead of settling into their rhythm.

Additionally, Alabama’s inability to adjust defensively in real-time to Auburn’s hot shooting meant that they failed to make the necessary tweaks. The lack of defensive adjustments in the final minutes allowed Auburn to stretch their lead, and despite Alabama’s offensive fireworks, the Tigers were simply too much to overcome.

Missed Free Throws

Another crucial aspect that hindered Alabama’s chances was their inability to convert at the free-throw line. The Crimson Tide finished the game shooting only 66% from the charity stripe, a stat that was glaringly low given the number of free throws they attempted. Missed free throws in a high-scoring game are often the difference between winning and losing, and on this night, Alabama’s inability to knock down easy points at the line proved costly.

 A Rivalry Game Full of Lessons

The 94-85 loss to Auburn, while disappointing, offers Alabama several lessons. The Crimson Tide showed that they have the offensive firepower to compete with any team in the country, but their inability to execute defensively and their late-game struggles were glaring weaknesses that need to be addressed. As they move forward, Alabama must find ways to tighten up defensively, especially on the perimeter and in transition, while also improving their decision-making in critical moments.

In the long run, this game serves as a reminder that rivalries are never predictable, and both teams played with a sense of urgency that made for a thrilling contest. For Alabama, the road to redemption will require sharpening their defensive game and finishing strong when the stakes are high. As the season progresses, this loss may serve as a motivator to improve and tighten up their play as they continue to chase their goals.