Nate Oats cracks wise about Labaron Philon’s absence after Alabama rolls
By Luke Greco
Published:
Alabama dominated Mississippi State on Wednesday night by a score of 100-75. The Tide made 22 3-pointers on their way to victory.
It was the second time Alabama had made that many 3-pointers in a game this season. The other time came against Yale on Dec. 29. The common denominator between the 2 games? Star guard Labaron Philon did not play. Philon has only missed 2 games across the entire season. Head coach Nate Oats said before Wednesday’s contest that Philon was dealing with a “nagging left leg injury.”
Oats joked after the game that maybe he needs to rethink his rotation and give Philon some additional time to rest.
“I guess we need to sit Philon more,” Oats said, tongue in cheek.
Starting in place of Philon was senior guard Latrell Wrightsell, who scored 18 points, hauled in 6 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists. Philon’s backcourt partner, Aden Holloway, added 16 points and 10 assists.
Freshman forward Amari Allen led the way with 23 points and went 6-of-7 from 3-point land.
The Tide extended its winning streak to 7 games and is out for revenge against No. 22 Tennessee on Saturday (6 p.m. ET). The Tide lost the previous matchup, 79-73, but that was more than a month ago, and the Tide look to be rounding into form ahead of the NCAA Tournament.
Kalshi says it’s more likely than not (52% chance) Alabama will advance to at least the Sweet 16 this season.
