11. Alabama (11-3)
No power conference team played a harder nonconference slate than Alabama and this isn’t exactly a new development in Tuscaloosa. Nate Oats challenges his team every day and it has resulted in recent postseason runs. However, those great teams from recent years don’t matter to this crew of Crimson Tide who are looking to make their own impact at this school.
They really showed up in the final nonconference game, punishing Yale early in a 102-78 win. Aden Holloway starred with 26 points and 7 assists as Alabama took care of business once more. Conference play began Saturday, with the Crimson Tide navigating another impressive performance, this time winning 89-74 against Kentucky. Holloway put together another 26-point outing while Labaron Philon Jr. added 17 points.
Simply put, Alabama puts the ball in the basket and can compete with any team in the nation. There’s no question that there have been a few tough showings this season, they didn’t get three losses by accident, but the Crimson Tide are better off after a few brutal stretches earlier in the season. This team is ready for the gauntlet of SEC play and gets a significant test early, heading to Vanderbilt this upcoming Wednesday.