The Crimson Tide bounced back impressively from their loss to Purdue with a 100-87 victory over Illinois, but how much did it impact Alabama’s position in the rankings?
Nov. 20, 2024; Birmingham, AL— Alabama guard Labaron Philon (0) throws down a dunk as Illinois center Tomislav Ivisic (13) trails during the CM Newton Classic at Legacy Arena. Alabama defeated Illinois 100-87. *(Photo credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Tuscaloosa News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images).
TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— Entering the season with its highest preseason ranking in program history at No. 2 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, Alabama men’s basketball started strong in Week 1 with back-to-back wins, holding its initial position in the rankings.
However, Week 2 presented challenges. Alabama narrowly defeated McNeese State in a hard-fought game before suffering an 87-78 road loss to then-No. 13 Purdue. This dropped the Crimson Tide to No. 8 in the AP Poll.
Despite the early-season struggles, Alabama rebounded in the C.M. Newton Classic on Nov. 20 with a dominant 100-87 win over No. 25 Illinois. Surprisingly, preseason All-American guard Mark Sears was held scoreless, and center Clifford Omoruyi managed just six points in limited minutes due to foul trouble. The team’s depth proved vital as Grant Nelson led the charge with 23 points, while guards Labaron Philon, Aden Holloway, and Latrell Wrightsell Jr. each scored over 16 points.
Although the victory showcased Alabama’s resilience, it wasn’t enough to maintain its spot in the rankings, as the Crimson Tide slipped to No. 9 in both the AP and Coaches Polls on Monday.
