Alabama Makes Early SEC Statement with 89-74 Win Over Kentucky

Alabama basketball didn’t just open SEC play with a win, the Crimson Tide made a statement.

In front of a fired-up home crowd in Tuscalaoosa, Alabama dismantled Kentucky 89–74 in its conference opener, showcasing offensive balance, perimeter shooting, and the toughness forged through one of the nation’s most demanding non-conference schedules.

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From the opening tip, Alabama set the tempo. The Tide shot an efficient 46 percent from the field and connected on 15 three-pointers, consistently stretching Kentucky’s defense and punishing every breakdown. Alabama also did its job at the free-throw line, going 12-of-16 in a game that never truly slipped out of its control.

Aden Holloway was the star of the night, leading all scorers with 26 points. The junior guard was electric, knocking down shots from deep and attacking off the bounce, repeatedly halting any momentum Kentucky tried to build. His confidence and command of the offense were evident, especially during key stretches when the Wildcats threatened to make a run.

Alabama’s depth once again proved to be a major difference. Labron Philon Jr. added 17 points, providing steady production and physicality on both ends. Houston Mallette chipped in 14 points, Amari Allen scored 11, and Noah Williamson rounded out the balanced scoring effort with 10 points. Five players in double figures underscored Alabama’s ability to beat teams in multiple ways.

Kentucky was led by Otega Oweh, who finished with 22 points, and Jawland Lowe, who added 21. While the Wildcats had moments of offensive success, Alabama’s defensive pressure and pace ultimately wore them down, especially in the second half.

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This performance was the culmination of a brutal preseason slate that prepared Alabama for moments like this. Entering SEC play at 10-3, the Tide had already tested itself against, and defeated, multiple top-25 opponents. That battle-tested résumé showed, as Alabama played with composure, confidence, and physicality against one of the league’s known traditional powers.

With the win, Alabama improves to 11–3 on the season and sends an early message to the rest of the SEC: this team is built to contend.

The Crimson Tide won’t have much time to celebrate, as they head to Nashville next to face Vanderbilt on January 7th.

If this opener is any indication, Alabama has arrived in conference play ready, and dangerous.