A Dominant Second Half Over JSU Secures Bama’s Tenth Victory of 2022
The No. 9/10 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide won at home over Jackson State on Tuesday, 84-64, marking the program's second straight season with 10 or more wins before January 1.
Nate Oats' young team struggled to get momentum going in the first half against an underwhelming Jackson State squad. JSU had only one win on the year headed into the appearance, yet the Tigers were able to keep the game close through the first 20 minutes of play, only down by one at the half.
"I mean, I don't want to say our guys overlooked it [JSU]" Oats said, "but I thought our energy was a lot better in the second half than it was at the beginning of the game. If you don't have a proper energy to start the game, they're comfortable on offense and we're turning the ball over it's going to make for a tough start."
Turnovers, like they have been all season, continued to plague the offense in the first half. Alabama notched 13 turnovers in the first 20 minutes of play but was able to settle down, only turning the ball over four more times, after gaining a sizable lead in the second half.
The Tigers gained the lead briefly after halftime, but Alabama was eventually able to turn on the offense with sparks from transfer guard Mark Sears and graduate forward Noah Gurley.
Gurley ended his appearance with 16 points, five rebounds and a steal in his first start of the year while filling in for a sick Noah Clowney.
Alabama star freshman forward Brandon Miller notched his second double-double for the season with 10 points and 14 rebounds against the Mo Williams led Jackson State Tigers.
Tuesday's meeting marked the fourth time that the two programs had met in school history, with the Crimson Tide now holding a 4-0 advantage from the 84-64 win. Jackson State's visit to Colman also meant a homecoming for first-year Tigers head coach Mo Williams who attended Alabama from 2001-2003.
The Tide, now 10-2, remains undefeated in Coleman Coliseum on the year and its next appearance comes after Christmas against Mississippi State on Wednesday, December 28.
For more from J.R. and all of the talented staff at Tide 100.9, make sure to check out our content at tide1009.com and on the Tide 100.9 app.