After a strong start, Ole Miss failed to withstand a brutal second-half offensive onslaught from the Crimson Tide and lost 103-88. This game seemed to mimic the trajectory of the entire men’s season: The team’s talent and ability led the Rebels to a strong showing in the first half that was ultimately undone by a lack of cohesion and chemistry in the second half.
The loss even further damaged the Rebels’ chances of participating in March Madness, as it was their third straight SEC loss during the final stretch of the regular season. While things seem bleak for Ole Miss, the game was not without its highlights.
Ole Miss guard Allen Flannigan scored 28 points on 70% shooting, playing one of his best games of the season off the bench. He was key in building an early lead and did his best to keep pace with the Alabama offense.
Unfortunately for Flannigan and the Rebels, the Crimson Tide’s offense has been impossible to keep up with all season long, ranking first in the entire SEC in points per game. This was evident on Wednesday night, especially after Alabama’s 16-5 run to close the half, which cut a huge chunk out of the Rebel’s lead.
Alabama guard Mark Sears, the top scorer in the SEC, led the way for the Crimson Tide in this game. He had 26 points in the game alongside his teammate, guard Aaron Estrada, who accounted for the fourth triple-double in Alabama history.
Offensive MVP: Allen Flannigan
Senior guard Flannigan had his SEC season high in points and shot extremely efficiently. He consistently hit tough, game-changing shots, including a couple of fades from the post to help the Rebels when they were cold from the floor.
Defensive MVP: first half effort
Ole Miss played an incredible first half defensively until the late run by Alabama. The Rebels continually disrupted the rhythm of the Crimson Tide’s offense early in the game, but sadly fell apart after the 16-5 scoring streak Alabama pieced together.
The difference between the defensive play in each half was night and day. The entire team deserves praise for their stout defensive play early on, but an equal amount of criticism for allowing the Crimson Tide’s 64-point second-half explosion.
Wrap up
This was as close to a must-win game for the Rebels as you can get. Losing six out of the last seven games in SEC play has significantly hurt their chances of making the tournament, and signs point to Ole Miss missing out for yet another year.
For Alabama, their win against Ole Miss helps retain first place in the SEC, a spot they claim largely due to their massive amount of offensive firepower.
What is next?
Ole Miss looks to get back on track this Saturday, March 2, against the University of Missouri, a team that they have already beat this season. If the Rebels want any chance of making the tournament, they have to right the record this weekend. The match will take place in Missouri, and tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.
