Alabama women’s basketball’s defense propels them in victory against Morehead State

Alabama women’s basketball put on a defensive clinic once again on Sunday in a 85-44 win against Morehead State in Coleman Coliseum.

The Crimson Tide (3-0) were able to hold the Eagles (0-2) to just 31% shooting from the field the entire game, while maintaining a season-high 30-point lead at halftime. Alabama’s defense also forced 24 turnovers, leading to 20 points.

Aliyah Nye led Alabama in scoring with 14 points, followed by Jessica Timmons with 12 and Sarah Ashlee Barker with 10.

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Here are a few takeaways from Alabama’s win:

Alabama’s lethal first-half defense

It seems like any time Morehead State tried to drive into the paint, the Crimson Tide had all five bodies ready for action.

Not only was the defense in the paint at a high level but Alabama’s defense was smothering the Eagles at half court the entire quarter.

The Crimson Tide held Morehead State to just six points in the first quarter on 3/10 shooting from the field. Alabama also forced a season-high 10 turnovers in the first quarter.

In the first half, the Crimson Tide defense only allowed 11 total points on 23% shooting from the field. Alabama also forced a season high 17 turnovers in the first half.

The Eagles only made five baskets in the first half, and 15 for the whole game.

Crimson Tide’s stellar rebounding

Alabama crashed the glass at a high level throughout the entirety of the game against the Eagles.

The Crimson Tide out-rebounded Morehead State by 10 in the first half.

Alabama nearly doubled Morehead State’s rebounding total at the end, totaling 41-23.

Rebounding is going to be very important for Alabama the rest of the season and entering SEC play.

Coach Kristy Curry emphasized the importance of hitting the boards for Alabama.

“Rebounding is going to be a crucial part for us moving into SEC play,” said Curry. “We know we need to defend and rebound. We had 18 total rebounds among our centers and that is what we’re looking for from them the rest of the season.”

Up next

Alabama faces USF (2-0) at 6 p.m. CT Thursday at Coleman Coliseum on SEC Network+.