NCAA Basketball: Kentucky, Arkansas fall in latest top 25 power ranking

14. Alabama (4-0)

There’s certainly a different feel in Tuscaloosa without Brandon Miller this season, though that’s not a bad thing at all for the Crimson Tide. While the level of opposition hasn’t yet been that impressive, Alabama has looked really good, even with new faces like Aaron Estrada and Grant Nelson playing significant roles for the squad.

After a slow start, Alabama turned up the heat against South Alabama, pulling away for a 102-46 blowout win on Tuesday night. Among the highlights for the Crimson Tide was a 17-point effort for Mark Sears while Sam Walters added 16 points off the bench. Three days later the result was very similar, with the Crimson Tide winning 98-67 against Mercer. Sears had 24 points and 6 assists to lead Alabama again while the team shot just under 60% from the floor.

Alabama is averaging nearly 102 points per game two weeks into the season. Clearly this number won’t last when they start playing stiffer competition, especially in the SEC, but it’s an indication that this team will be just alright with these new faces replacing the old under Nate Oats. Alabama’s next hurdle is the Emerald Coast Classic, beginning with a matchup against Ohio State on Friday, and their first real tests of the season.