NCAA Basketball: 2019 Big 12/SEC Challenge preview

Alabama Crimson Tide at Baylor Bears

The Baylor Bears put up an abysmal display in last year’s Big 12/SEC Challenge, falling 81-60 to the Florida Gators. Things could get worse when the Alabama Crimson Tide come to town on Jan. 26, 2019. It will be their first meeting since 2009.

Collin Sexton is off to the NBA but Alabama returns all of their production from 2017-18.  Sexton averaged 13.3 field goal attempts in his lone college season, so his departure opens up more opportunities for those returning. John Petty, a 37.2 percent 3-point shooter should be dangerous as should Dazon Ingram, given both take more shot attempts.

On the flip side, Baylor has to replace four seniors who accounted for much of their production this past season. With four freshmen coming in, a few may be looked to in the early going to contribute right away.

The Bears finished 2017-18 with a 19-15 record getting as far as the second round of the NIT. They will have a totally different look under head coach Scott Drew. After four-straight appearances in the NCAA Tournament, it’s back to the drawing board with a totally new rotation.

Alabama is 2-0 so far in their two appearances in the challenge, let’s see if Baylor can hand them their first loss.