#6 Alabama vs #5 Tennessee NCAAB Pick: An SEC Heavyweight Bout (Mar 1)

• Alabama secured a significant victory against Mississippi State 111-73
• Tennessee defeated LSU 65-59 in their last game, showcasing their defensive prowess.
• These two teams last met on March 2, 2024, in a game that Tennessee won 81-74.

#6 Alabama Crimson Tide will face off against the #5 Tennessee Volunteers in an SEC Heavyweight bout. Both teams are vying for top seeds in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, making this matchup crucial for postseason positioning.

Alabama Is Battle Tested

The Crimson Tide are 23-5 and have faced tough competition and adversity all season long. They’re 2-2 in their last four games, all vs ranked teams; facing Tennessee will be the fifth consecutive.

Alabama’s high-octane offense is #1 in the nation, led by senior guard Mark Sears, has been instrumental in their recent success. To secure a victory against Tennessee, Alabama will need to maintain their offensive efficiency and capitalize on fast-break opportunities.

Defensively, Alabama has shown improvement, focusing on perimeter defense to stifle opponents’ three-point shooting. Their ability to force turnovers and convert them into points will be a key factor in this matchup. The team’s depth allows for a relentless pace, wearing down adversaries as the game progresses.

Tennessee Has To Stay Afloat

The Volunteers are 23-5 with an SEC record of 10-5 tied for fifth in the conference, two spots under Alabama with two SEC games to go including Bama. This Tennessee team is experienced as their four leading scorers are all seniors.

Tennessee’s defense ranks #3 in the nation in opponents points per game (60.8), often dictating the tempo and frustrating opposing offenses. To overcome Alabama, Tennessee will rely on their defensive schemes to disrupt the Crimson Tide’s rhythm and limit their scoring opportunities.

Offensively, Tennessee’s balanced attack features multiple players capable of contributing significant points. Their emphasis on ball movement and high-percentage shots makes them a consistent threat.

Controlling the boards and minimizing turnovers will be essential for the Volunteers to maintain their edge in this contest and these are things they’ve done well all season.

Alabama Crimson Tide vs Tennessee Volunteers Pick

This matchup promises to be a battle of contrasting styles: Alabama’s fast-paced offense against Tennessee’s stifling defense. While both teams have the talent to emerge victorious, Tennessee’s home-court advantage and defensive consistency may give them a slight edge. Expect a closely contested game with the Volunteers narrowly securing the win.