Alabama Faces Tall Task at Florida, with Amari Allen’s Status Looming Large
When Alabama takes the floor against Florida on Sunday, the biggest question might not be about strategy or matchups-it’s whether star freshman guard Amari Allen will suit up. And make no mistake: his presence could be the difference between a hard-fought upset and another frustrating loss in Gainesville.
Allen has been nothing short of a revelation in his first season in Tuscaloosa. He leads the Crimson Tide in rebounding, a rare feat for a freshman guard, and ranks third in both scoring and assists. His versatility and physicality have made him a cornerstone of Nate Oats’ rotation, especially in matchups that demand toughness on the glass and defensive flexibility.
But as of Saturday night, his status remains uncertain. Oats told reporters Friday that Allen had yet to practice and would be a game-time decision. That was confirmed when Alabama’s availability report listed him as questionable for Sunday’s showdown.
And that’s a big deal, because Florida has had Alabama’s number lately-and it hasn’t been subtle. The Gators have taken the last four meetings, largely by dominating the paint and overwhelming Alabama on the boards.
Last year in Tuscaloosa, Alabama played well in most facets but was crushed on the glass, losing the rebounding battle 50-35 in a narrow five-point defeat. In the SEC Tournament, Florida’s backcourt, led by Walter Clayton Jr., proved too much once again.
This time around, Alabama enters the game with a clear backcourt advantage. Even if Allen can’t go, the trio of Labaron Philon, Aden Holloway, and Latrell Wrightsell gives the Crimson Tide one of the most dynamic and explosive guard rotations in the SEC. That’s been Florida’s Achilles’ heel all season, and Alabama will look to exploit it early and often.
But the real battle will be fought inside, where Alabama has struggled to match Florida’s physicality in recent years. The good news?
Charles Bediako is available and expected to play a major role. His presence in the paint gives Alabama a much-needed anchor defensively and a shot-blocking threat that can disrupt Florida’s interior rhythm.
Still, Allen’s availability could be the swing factor. He’s not just a rebounder-he’s one of the most physical guards in the country, capable of holding his own in the paint and defending multiple positions. Most importantly, he’s Alabama’s best option to slow down Florida forward Thomas Haugh, who’s been a matchup nightmare for opponents all year.
As of now, Alabama heads into Gainesville as a 7.5-point underdog, according to FanDuel. That’s a fair number given the recent history between these teams and the uncertainty surrounding Allen. But if he’s able to play-and play at the level we’ve seen all season-Alabama’s chances of pulling off a statement road win go up dramatically.
This one’s shaping up to be a grind. And for Alabama, having their freshman star in uniform could make all the difference.