Alabama basketball is eyeing a historic season in 2024-25, with coach Nate Oats boldly stating the team’s ambitions to win four championships: the SEC regular season title, the SEC Tournament, and the National Championship—all after narrowly missing out in the Players Era Tournament. With high expectations and a challenging schedule, the Crimson Tide has proven it is a team to watch.
Why Alabama is a Championship Contender
1. Strength of Schedule and Current Performance
Alabama boasts the No. 2 Strength of Schedule (SOS) in college basketball, according to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI). Among national title contenders, only Gonzaga (No. 6) and SEC rival Auburn (No. 10) come close to the Tide’s rigorous slate.
This season, Alabama has already faced six teams currently ranked in the BPI’s top 31, posting an impressive 4-2 record. Wins include top-tier programs like No. 2 Houston, No. 12 Illinois, No. 15 North Carolina (in Chapel Hill), and No. 27 Creighton. Losses to No. 21 Purdue and No. 31 Oregon underscore areas for growth but highlight the team’s readiness for high-stakes competition.
Nate Oats praised his team’s out-of-conference performance after the Creighton win:
“We’ve scheduled pretty tough like this ever since I’ve been here. I think it’s the best way to prepare yourself for SEC play. I think our guys will be ready.”
While Alabama struggles with three-point shooting, ranking No. 258 nationally with a 31.68% success rate, its ability to win against strong opponents despite this flaw demonstrates the team’s depth and defensive strength.
2. Historical Trends Favor Alabama
Looking at NCAA championship history offers a compelling argument for Alabama’s chances. According to Yahoo’s Jeff Eisenberg, 34 of the past 35 national champions were ranked in the top 12 of the Week 6 AP Poll. Alabama, ranked No. 7 in the latest poll, is squarely in contention.
Other teams in the Week 6 AP Top 12 include SEC rivals Tennessee (No. 1), Auburn (No. 2), and Kentucky (No. 5), alongside national powerhouses like Duke, Gonzaga, and Kansas. Alabama’s position within this elite group reinforces its legitimacy as a title contender.
What’s Next for the Crimson Tide?
Alabama’s journey is far from over. SEC play will bring new challenges, but Oats’ squad has shown resilience, depth, and defensive excellence. If the Tide can improve their perimeter shooting, they’ll be even more dangerous in the postseason.
With the SEC and national championship goals still ahead, Alabama fans have reason to believe this could be one of the most memorable seasons in program history. Whether or not they cut down the nets in April, the Tide is poised for an exceptional run in 2024-25.
