Alabama basketball is heating up at just the right time, climbing to No. 14 in the latest AP Top 25 poll after a strong 2-0 week in nonconference play. The Crimson Tide took care of business with wins over South Florida and Kennesaw State, and in the process, showed flashes of the high-octane offense that’s become a staple under head coach Nate Oats.
Their most recent outing-a 92-81 win over Kennesaw State at the Rocket City Classic in Huntsville-was more than just another W. It was a reunion of sorts, with former Alabama player and assistant coach Antoine Pettway now leading the Kennesaw State program.
And while Pettway’s squad made a push in the second half, Alabama had already built a 26-point cushion by halftime, leading 54-28. That early dominance proved to be the difference.
Sophomore big man Aiden Sherrell was the standout, delivering a career-best performance with 21 points in just 24 minutes. He also grabbed seven boards and gave Alabama the kind of interior presence that can anchor both ends of the floor. Sherrell’s growth is something to watch-his combination of size, touch, and timing is starting to click.
The backcourt was just as sharp. Freshmen Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway chipped in 17 points apiece, continuing to show why they’re one of the most dynamic young guard duos in the country. Jalil Bethea, the Miami transfer, added 11 points and continues to provide steady scoring off the bench.
Earlier in the week, Alabama put up video game numbers in a 104-93 shootout win over South Florida. Philon was electric, dropping 29 points on 10-of-15 shooting, while Holloway added 24 of his own. The Tide knocked down 13 threes in that game, showing off the kind of spacing and perimeter firepower that makes them a nightmare to defend when they’re clicking.
That offensive rhythm has helped Alabama rise two spots in the AP poll, now sitting at No. 14-just behind undefeated Nebraska at No. 13 and ahead of a surging Texas Tech squad at No. 15. They’re also No. 15 in this week’s USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, signaling respect from around the country for what this group is building.
Here’s how the top of the AP poll is shaping up: Arizona and Michigan remain undefeated and hold down the top two spots, while Iowa State, UConn, and Purdue round out the top five. Duke, Gonzaga, Houston, Michigan State, and BYU complete a top 10 that’s packed with powerhouses and early-season contenders.
For Alabama, the focus now shifts to one final nonconference matchup before SEC play begins. They'll host Yale (11-1) at Coleman Coliseum on Monday, Dec. 29, with tipoff set for 7 p.m.
CT on ESPN+. Yale’s record speaks for itself-they’re no cupcake-and this will be a chance for Alabama to sharpen up against a disciplined, well-coached opponent before diving into the grind of conference play.
At 9-3, Alabama’s resume is rounding into form. The offense is humming, the young core is maturing, and the team is starting to look like a real threat in the national conversation. If Sherrell continues to emerge and the backcourt keeps firing, this group has the tools to make serious noise in 2026.