The Crimson Tide, with a starting lineup comprised almost entirely of freshmen, dominated the Longwood Lancers in their season-opening game. The final score was 75-54.

Brandon Miller had his long awaited debut on Monday in his first college basketball game, with 14 points and 13 rebounds.

Freshman Rylan Griffen also scored 14 points. Freshman guard Jaden Bradley scored 11 points as well.

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Point guard Mark Sears had 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists.

Alabama's defense was on top of it Monday, as well, holding the Lancers to only 27% shooting and blocked nine shots. Alabama managed to grab 67 rebounds compared to 38 for Longwood. Miller had 13 rebounds, Charles Bediako had 12, Noah Clowney had 11, and Sears had 10. Coach Oats was very impressed with the defense.

Within the first two and a half minutes of the second half, the Tide took a double-digit lead, which grew to a 21-point lead by the end of the game.

However, the bad side was Alabama ended the game with 27-69 shooting at 39%. They were 3-28 on three-pointers, at almost 11%.

Alabama had 19 turnovers, and Oats mentioned that as a problem for Alabama.

"I told you we're going to be better on defense, but I also told you we were going to be a better shooting team. We weren't tonight, but I think the shooting numbers will take care of itself. But I'm really happy with the effort and the defense," Oats said.

"We want to play fast, but we don't want to rush. We were way too careless," said Oats regarding the turnovers.

With it being just the first game for a young team, there is plenty of room for improving throughout the season.

Oats also mentioned how he was proud of the blue-collar basketball efforts the team had, that he always emphasizes and prides himself and the team on.

Despite troubles connecting and shooting accuracy issues, Alabama's freshman heavy team dominated the court.

Alabama faces Liberty at Coleman Coliseum Friday, November 11 at 7 p.m. CST for their Salute to Service game.

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