Game Recap: Alabama 103-87 Vanderbilt (January 21, 2025)

On January 21, 2025, the Alabama Crimson Tide basketball team earned an impressive 103-87 victory over the Vanderbilt Commodores in a high-scoring Southeastern Conference (SEC) matchup at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The game showcased a thrilling combination of offensive firepower and strategic plays, as Alabama demonstrated their dominance in both scoring and fast-paced basketball. With the win, the Crimson Tide moved to 16-2 on the season, maintaining their position as one of the top teams in the SEC and the nation. Vanderbilt, meanwhile, dropped to 12-7, continuing their inconsistent season.

First Half: Alabama’s Offensive Explosion

From the opening tip-off, Alabama wasted no time imposing their will on the game, pushing the tempo with their aggressive transition play. The Crimson Tide’s fast-break offense was firing on all cylinders, overwhelming Vanderbilt’s defense. Alabama scored 56 points in the first half, a blistering offensive showing that put them in full control.

A key factor in Alabama’s first-half success was their deep shooting. The Crimson Tide shot a scorching 45.5% from beyond the arc in the first half, as shooters like sophomore guard Jaden Ivey and senior forward Noah Gurley found their rhythm early and often. Ivey, known for his ability to stretch defenses with his outside shooting, delivered several crucial three-pointers to keep Vanderbilt at bay.

Vanderbilt, on the other hand, struggled to keep pace with Alabama’s pace and energy. While the Commodores had flashes of brilliance offensively, particularly from senior guard Jordan Wright, they couldn’t match the Tide’s intensity. Wright, who finished with a team-high 22 points, was effective in both isolation plays and attacking the basket, but it was clear that the Commodores were outmatched defensively.

One of the standout moments of the first half came midway through when Alabama went on a 10-0 run sparked by a pair of three-pointers from Ivey and a transition layup from star freshman guard Coley Williams. This stretch pushed the Crimson Tide’s lead to 20 points and left Vanderbilt scrambling to find an answer. The Commodores’ head coach, Jerry Stackhouse, called a timeout in an attempt to slow the momentum, but the Crimson Tide were too quick and too efficient.

The Commodores did manage to keep the game within reach for much of the first half by hitting timely shots, including a pair of threes from guard Tyrin Lawrence, who contributed 18 points on the night. Despite those moments, Alabama’s offensive efficiency continued to shine, and they held a commanding 56-40 lead at halftime.

Second Half: Vanderbilt’s Resilience and Alabama’s Depth

Vanderbilt came out of the locker room in the second half determined to make a run. The Commodores increased their defensive intensity, pushing Alabama out beyond the arc and forcing them into contested shots. However, the Crimson Tide’s offensive depth, which has been a hallmark of their success this season, proved too much for Vanderbilt.

Alabama’s depth was evident in the second half, with players like Gurley and Williams taking turns scoring, while their bench provided crucial contributions. Williams, a dynamic playmaker, scored 15 points in the second half alone, including several crucial drives to the basket that kept Alabama’s lead steady. Gurley, who finished with 18 points, played a key role in both scoring and rebounding, contributing seven rebounds in the game.

Vanderbilt, despite their increased defensive pressure, simply could not contain Alabama’s offensive weapons. The Commodores did make runs in the second half, largely due to the scoring ability of Wright and Lawrence. Wright continued to score efficiently, adding 12 points in the second half, while Lawrence, who had been quiet in the first half, exploded for 14 points in the final 20 minutes. Yet, every time Vanderbilt seemed poised to make a serious push, Alabama responded with a big shot or defensive stop.

One of the key moments in the second half came with just under 7 minutes remaining. Alabama’s lead had been trimmed to 10 points after a series of baskets from Vanderbilt. However, with the game starting to get tighter, Williams made a dazzling move to the basket, drawing a foul and converting an and-one. That play swung the momentum back to Alabama, and from that point on, the Crimson Tide never let the lead dip below 10 points.

Alabama’s Balanced Scoring Attack

What stood out the most in the win for Alabama was their balanced offensive attack. Four players finished the game in double figures, with Ivey leading the way with 24 points. Ivey also contributed 6 assists and 3 rebounds, showcasing his well-rounded skillset. Gurley’s 18 points, combined with Williams’ 15 and center Charles Bediako’s 14 points and 9 rebounds, exemplified the depth of this Alabama team.

While their offense was efficient and potent, Alabama’s defense did its part as well, though not without giving up some significant points. The Crimson Tide were able to create turnovers and play pressure defense, forcing Vanderbilt into uncomfortable situations at times. The Commodores, who had 16 turnovers in the game, struggled to get good shots consistently against Alabama’s swarming defense, especially when it mattered in the second half.

Vanderbilt’s Struggles and Bright Spots

For Vanderbilt, the loss was a frustrating one, as they were never able to fully slow down Alabama’s high-powered offense. Head coach Jerry Stackhouse will likely focus on improving the team’s defensive consistency, particularly in transition, as the Commodores struggled to match the Crimson Tide’s speed and offensive execution. While Vanderbilt was able to score efficiently at times, the inability to get timely stops proved to be their downfall.

Aside from Wright and Lawrence, Vanderbilt had solid contributions from forward Myles Stute, who finished with 14 points, and guard Ezra Manjon, who added 10 points. However, despite these efforts, Vanderbilt’s defense couldn’t handle the high-powered Alabama offense. The Commodores had a difficult time matching up with Alabama’s depth, and their inability to string together stops allowed the Crimson Tide to continue their offensive onslaught.

In addition, Vanderbilt’s inability to control the glass also hurt them. Alabama, led by Bediako and Gurley, dominated the rebounding battle, finishing with a 42-30 edge. The Commodores’ inability to secure defensive rebounds allowed Alabama to extend possessions and capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

Closing Thoughts: Alabama’s Championship Aspirations

This victory was yet another statement win for Alabama, who have established themselves as one of the top teams in the SEC and the nation. The Crimson Tide have proven they can win with offensive firepower, with a relentless fast break, and by utilizing their depth to overwhelm opponents. Their ability to keep the ball moving and find open shooters will be key as they continue their march toward the NCAA Tournament.

For Vanderbilt, this loss highlights their need to improve defensively if they are to compete in the SEC. Despite having several talented players, the Commodores have struggled to find consistency, especially on the defensive end. Moving forward, Stackhouse will need to focus on finding ways to slow down high-powered offenses like Alabama’s while continuing to rely on the scoring abilities of Wright, Lawrence, and others.

In the end, Alabama’s 103-87 victory over Vanderbilt served as a reminder of their offensive prowess and their aspirations for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Their explosive scoring, depth, and ability to execute in both transition and half-court sets make them a dangerous team that few will want to face come March.