Alabama women’s basketball falls to Arkansas on Sunday, now 2-2 in SEC play

Alabama women’s basketball has been in its fare share of physical contests, and Sunday was one of them, falling to the Arkansas Razorbacks, 77-59, for its second SEC loss of the season.

The Crimson Tide struggled on the glass all game and that is what ultimately cost them the game.

HOW TO WATCH: What channel is Alabama women’s basketball vs Arkansas on? Time and TV schedule for Sunday’s game

MORE: Alabama women’s basketball defeats Missouri for its first SEC win of the season

Here are three observations from the game between Alabama (15-4, 2-2 SEC) and Arkansas (14-5, 2-2):

Alabama’s early rebounding woes

Rebounding the ball was a major issue for Alabama in the first quarter. In particular, the Crimson Tide allowed 10 offensive rebounds which is the highest of any mark all season.

The Razorbacks average just 10 offensive rebounds per game, ranked 13th in the SEC, but were able to match it early against Alabama.

The Crimson Tide was fortunate that Arkansas was only able to muster up five points from their efficient rebounding.

There was a 16-9 total rebounding disparity in the first quarter, with a 10-1 offensive rebounding difference.

Alabama was out-rebounded 51-35 by the end of the game, and 20-12 on the offensive glass which is the most amount of offensive rebounds the Crimson Tide have allowed all season.

“You have to be able to rebound in the SEC, that’s been my concern all year. It’s disappointing the way we rebounded today. I will continue to try to do everything I can to help them improve in terms of rebounding,” coach Kristy Curry said.

Despite the first half rebounding struggles, Alabama’s defense never let up

Alabama’s defense never wavered in the first half, despite the struggles on the glass.

Known for its defense, Alabama forced many tough shots and were able to keep the Razorback players in front of them without fouling and showing why they are a top-15 defense in the country.

Arkansas shot just 27% overall in the first half and made just two of 16 three-pointers attempted.

Alabama’s troublesome second half

Arkansas began the second half on a 10-0 run and never let up the lead after that. It seemed like each time Alabama got back in the game, that the Razorbacks would answer.

Alabama was outscored 47-27 in the second half, failing at numerous comeback attempts.

Up next

The Crimson Tide stay in Tuscaloosa to face the No. 7 LSU Tigers in Coleman Coliseum on Thursday, Jan 18 (8 p.m., SEC Network) .