Alabama basketball has been making waves, climbing the ranks after feeling overlooked in recent polls. Last week, the Crimson Tide was sitting at No. 25 in the AP Poll and didn’t even crack the Coaches Poll. It seemed like a consequence of the Charles Bediako situation, but Nate Oats and his team have silenced any doubts.
With two impressive wins last week-a nail-biting double-overtime victory over Arkansas and a solid road win against LSU-Alabama has strung together six consecutive victories. They’ve been undefeated in the four games since the Bediako decision.
Now, the pollsters have taken notice. Alabama has jumped to No. 18 in the Coaches Poll, marking an eight-spot rise, and they've climbed to No. 17 in the AP Poll:
Alabama basketball is heating up at just the right moment
This is the time of year when teams want to hit their stride, and Alabama is doing just that. With six straight wins, they hold a 10-4 record in SEC play and are 20-7 overall. The Crimson Tide is in a prime position for a double-bye in the SEC Tournament in Nashville and is projected as a 4-seed in the NCAA Tournament, according to Joe Lunardi.
Looking ahead, Alabama is poised to extend their winning streak to seven if they take care of business at home against Mississippi State on Wednesday. They’re expected to be heavy favorites.
This sets the stage for a crucial matchup on Saturday in Knoxville against Tennessee. Alabama will be aiming to break a frustrating losing streak against the Volunteers. The winner of this showdown will likely secure a double-bye in Nashville and position themselves strategically on the bracket opposite a resurgent Florida.