TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The Alabama Crimson Tide women’s basketball team launched its Southeastern Conference (SEC) campaign with a triumphant 79-69 victory over Florida on Thursday night at Coleman Coliseum, despite losing veteran Sarah Ashlee Barker with 8:00 left in the second quarter due to an unknown leg injury. This marks Alabama’s first win in an SEC opener since the 2021-22 season, solidifying their impressive 14-1 record (1-0 SEC).

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Zaay Green Shines

Zaay Green delivered a standout performance, leading the Crimson Tide with 27 points on 54% shooting (12-of-22) from the field. Her contribution marked the fifth game this season in which the graduate guard has scored over 20 points.

Green’s offensive firepower was complemented by Diana Collins, who recorded a career-high 12 points on perfect shooting from the floor, and Aaliyah Nye, who contributed 10 points and three assists. Essence Cody also made her presence felt, nearly securing a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds, alongside three blocks and a steal.

Team Defense and Contributions

Alabama’s defense was relentless, forcing 15 turnovers and scoring 19 points off them. Green and Nye each tallied two steals to disrupt the Gators’ offense.

Florida (9-6, 0-1 SEC) was led by Liv McGill with 18 points, while Alexia Mobley and Jeriah Warren each added 12 points.

Coach Kristy Curry’s Thoughts

Head Coach Kristy Curry praised her team’s resilience, stating, “Any win in this league is always hard, and I thought we embraced the challenge tonight. We showed grit and toughness, and I’m proud of how we stayed composed, even during moments of adversity.” Curry also highlighted the bench’s contributions, noting Diana Collins’ career-high performance and the overall team effort in starting SEC play with a win.

Game Highlights

• First Quarter: Alabama set the tone early with a 7-0 run and maintained control to lead 21-12 by the end of the period.
• Second Quarter: Despite a 6-0 Florida run, Alabama responded in kind, maintaining a double-digit lead and heading into halftime up 41-31.
• Third Quarter: The Crimson Tide extended their lead with an 11-0 run, fueled by eight points from Green, creating a 20-point margin at one stage.
• Fourth Quarter: Florida cut the deficit to single digits late in the game, but Alabama’s timely scoring, including a pair of layups by Green, sealed the victory.

By the Numbers

• Alabama shot 50% from the field (32-of-63) and 43% from three-point range (10-of-23).
• Florida shot 46% overall (26-of-56) and an impressive 50% from beyond the arc (9-of-18).
• The Crimson Tide dominated inside, outscoring Florida 36-28 in the paint.

What’s Next

The Crimson Tide will return to Coleman Coliseum on Sunday, Jan. 5, to face Missouri. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on SEC Network+.