Crimson Tide Rolls in Round of 64

Alabama fans were cautious of their team heading into the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Alabama had lost four of their last six games, including two blowout losses to the Florida Gators. The defense had been a concern for the Crimson Tide, and head coach Nate Oats had emphasized not letting offensive results determine defensive effort.

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Alabama's offense had struggled heading into the NCAA Tournament. That wasn't the case in the round of 64. Alabama's offense scored 100 points with 5:34 to go in the second half. It was the 10th time Alabama had scored 100 points or more in a game.

The offensive woes were non-existent for Alabama on Friday, with the Crimson Tide shooting 56.5% from three and 60% from the field.

The Crimson Tide dominated the game from start to finish. They outscored Charleston 51-34 in the first half and controlled most of the second half.

Mark Sears had 20 points in the first half and led the team in points with 30. Latrell Wrightsell Jr. had 17 points, and Aaron Estrada had 13.

Alabama's Statistical Leaders

Points: Mark Sears - 30

Assists: Aaron Estrada - 8

Rebounds: Aaron Estrada - 7

Blocks: Aaron Estrada, Jarin Stevenson - 1

Nick Pringle did not travel with the team but did travel to Spokane, Washington a day after the team. When asked about it before the game, Oats said it was a 'personal issue.' That wasn't enough to stop Alabama, as the Crimson Tide rolled to a 109-96 victory to advance to the round of 32.

Alabama will play the winner of Grand Canyon and St. Mary's on Sunday.

Wyatt Fulton provides coverage of Alabama football and men's basketball for Tide 100.9. Follow him on Twitter/X at @FultonW_