Alabama Drops Game on the Road at Purdue

Oats' offense is notorious for getting out in transition and putting up shots early in the shot clock, but on Friday night, Oats' squad managed zero fast break points against Purdue. The Boilermakers were content and effective in turning the game into a half-court battle. 

Guard Braden Smith, who had a double-double with 17 points and 10 assists, picked Alabama's defense apart in the pick-and-roll game as he was able to find his spot in the midrange while also dishing it down low with ease. 

On the other hand, the Tide couldn't find the ease in the half-court offense that Purdue did, as Alabama finished with five more turnovers and shot just 44.4% from the field and 31% from three. 

Center Cliff Omoruyi, who transferred from Rutgers, has made an immediate impact on the defensive side, but he has an issue staying out of foul trouble. On Friday night, he played just 22 minutes as he fouled out, and Alabama's defense suffered immensely when he wasn't in the game. 

The Crimson Tide has plenty to work on, and that is exactly why Oats schedules these types of games, but the challenges continue as Alabama faces Illinois Wednesday night before going to Las Vegas for the Players Era Festival.