The first round of the NCAA Tournament is officially wrapped up, and March Madness is in full swing. Nate Oats and the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team were able to dispose of the Hofstra Pride on Friday afternoon 90-70 thanks to the dominating performance from sophomore guard Labaron Philon.
With the win, Coach Oats tied the Alabama record for most NCAA Tournament wins with the legendary Wimp Sanderson.
Up next for Oats and the Tide is a matchup with the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second round, with a chance to advance to the Sweet 16 on the line.
How To Watch Alabama vs. Texas Tech
Alabama and Texas Tech will be one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the second round. The Crimson Tide is missing star guard Aden Holloway due to his arrest, while the Red Raiders are without their top player, JT Toppin, who suffered a season-ending knee injury on February 17.
The official tip time for Alabama vs. Texas Tech is set for 8:45 p.m. CT on TBS.
Tipoff is set for 8:45 p.m. CT on TBS. #RollTide
Texas Tech Presents Defensive Challenge
While Alabama thrives on pace, Texas Tech brings a physical, defensive style that could disrupt the Crimson Tide’s rhythm.
The Alabama-Texas Tech game will likely come down to tempo. If Alabama can speed things up, it could gain an edge. If Texas Tech slows the game down and forces half-court sets, the Red Raiders may be able to control the flow.
Tempo will be the name of the game on Sunday night.
What’s at Stake in Alabama, Texas Tech
March Madness is nothing but high-stakes matchups, and this one is not any different. The Tide and Red Raiders will be battling it out on the hardwood for a spot in the Sweet 16. The winner could potentially face No. 1 seed Michigan if they handle business on Saturday against the 9-seed St. Louis Billicans.
Alabama is looking to advance to the Sweet 16 for the fourth consecutive season under Coach Oats.
Alabama vs Texas Tech Tip Time Set for NCAA Tournament