Graduate senior forward Grant Nelson silenced his critics with a stellar performance in Alabama’s thrilling 93-91 overtime victory against Auburn on Saturday. Facing significant scrutiny for his recent struggles and playing through injury, Nelson stepped up when the Crimson Tide needed him most, delivering 23 points, 8 rebounds, and key plays on both ends of the floor.
Nelson entered the game averaging just over eight points per contest in his previous eight outings, leading many to question his effectiveness. Head coach Nate Oats, however, challenged Nelson and fellow senior Cliff Omoruyi to rise to the occasion. Both responded with a combined 38 points and 16 rebounds, helping Alabama spoil Auburn’s Senior Day in what was one of the most intense games of the college basketball season.
Setting the Tone Early
Nelson made his presence felt early with a thunderous dunk over Auburn’s Dylan Cardwell, punctuated by his signature “Crimson Crane” celebration. His aggressive play helped Alabama establish a slim halftime lead and set the tone for the game. Nelson’s efficiency from the field—8-of-15 overall and 3-of-5 from beyond the arc—was a welcome sight for a player who had struggled from long range in recent weeks.
Clutch Moments Down the Stretch
In the closing minutes of regulation, Nelson scored a critical bucket to give Alabama a 79-77 lead and then locked down Auburn’s Johni Broome on the defensive end, forcing a tough fadeaway shot to send the game to overtime. In the extra period, Nelson came up clutch again, grabbing a crucial offensive rebound and scoring the go-ahead put-back that gave Alabama an 88-87 lead with just over a minute remaining.
Key to Another Deep Tournament Run
Nelson’s resurgence couldn’t come at a better time for Alabama, who will need him at his best as they prepare for the SEC and NCAA Tournaments. “We need him playing aggressive,” Oats said after the game. “He was one of the best players in the country last year in March when we made our Final Four run. Hopefully, we get Grant Nelson in March back for another March run for us.”
With elite guard play from Mark Sears and Labaron Philon, and sharpshooting threats like Chris Youngblood and Jarin Stevenson, Alabama is already a dangerous team. If Nelson can sustain his high level of play and Omoruyi continues to dominate inside, the Crimson Tide could be poised for a championship run.
Alabama’s performance against Auburn proved their potential, and with Nelson back to form, this team is as dangerous as any in the nation.
