Alabama completes its tough non-conference with a home game against perennial Summit League favorite, South Dakota State.
TV schedule: Sunday, December 29th, 3:00 pm ET. ESPN+
Arena: Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
It’s been a strong first half of the season for Alabama, who is 10-2. Wins include over Illinois, Houston, Rutgers, Creighton, and North Carolina, the team has done what it needed to secure a top-tier seed in the NCAA Tournament.
After a slow start, star guard Mark Sears (17.8 ppg and 3.9 apg) is playing at an elite level again. Grant Nelson and Labaron Philon are double-digit contributors as well. Plus, the depth is getting stronger, with Chris Youngblood and Houston Mallette returning from injuries and being in the rotation.
But the Crimson Tide has one more test before SEC play starts, and it’s one they shouldn’t overlook. South Dakota State (9-5) lost its top players from last season, including Summit League Player of the Year guard Zeke Mayo. But they have a new batch of key guys leading the way, led by 6’11 center, Oscar Cluff. The Washington State transfer leads the team with 16.6 ppg and 10.8 ppg and will be a handful for Cliff Omoruryi inside.
Freshman guard Joe Sayler (13.3 ppg) has been a welcomed surprise for the Jackrabbits, shooting nearly 40% from deep on over five attempts. Sophomore guard Kalen Garry (10.2 ppg) is a double-digit contributor, while Wisconsin transfer Matthew Mors is another power conference talent who can match up with the Crimson Tide.
South Dakota State has wins over Duquesne, McNeese State, and Missouri State in the non-con and is the clear favorite in the Summit League once league play gets going over there. And, like with the other mid-major opponents on the schedule, Alabama can’t sleepwalk over them.
However, without an answer on how to slow down Sears, look for the Crimson Tide to roll on Sunday to make it five straight wins.
Prediction: Alabama 90, South Dakota State 75
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