Alabama vs Texas Tech: Rebounding Showdown

0:00On March 21, Alabama beat Hofstra 90-70 on Friday in the first round of the tournament. The win sends the Crimson Tide into a matchup against Texas Tech on Sunday, with a spot in the sweet 16 on the line for the fourth year in a row. Texas Tech season took a sharp turn after junior JT Topin tore his ACL on February 17 against Arizona State. Before the injury, Topin averaged over 21 points and 10 rebounds per game, fueling a 19-6 start that included victories over. Duke and Arizona. Since then, the Red Raiders win just three and four. Alabama coach Nate Oates plans to focus prep on Tech's recent games without their star, noting the team's shift to strong guard play and methodical. Half-court sets. Even without Topin, Texas Tech features solid shooters and remains a top challenge, especially with the quick turnaround between games. Point guard Christian Anderson has stepped up big since the injury, averaging nearly 19 points and over seven assists while shooting efficiently.

1:01From deep, he's joined by shooters like Donovan Atwell and Jalen Petty, all over 40 percent from three-point range, creating tough looks in half-court, offense. Rebounding could decide it all, as both teams have struggled there this year. Tech lacks size without Topin, but Alabama's not consistent on the boards either. If the Crimson Tide lock in defensively against Tech's pace and screens, they stay alive, but any slip could end their run right here.