Alabama edges Florida State in exhibition opener in Birmingham
In an exhilarating exhibition game at Birmingham’s Boutwell Auditorium, Alabama edged out Florida State 109-105, with both teams showcasing a high-scoring, fast-paced style. The Tide’s returning guards dominated the performance, with Labaron Philon leading the charge with 28 points, followed by Aden Holloway with 20, and Houston Mallette contributing 13. Newly transferred forward Taylor Bol Bowen from Florida State added 14 points, while Tarleton State transfer Keitenn Bristow scored 13.
Under the direction of new head coach Luke Loucks, Florida State attempted 43 three-pointers, converting 14, and grabbed an impressive 23 offensive rebounds, but ultimately fell short. Alabama’s head coach, Nate Oats, acknowledged the defensive lapses during the game. “Our transition [defense] got exposed,” he noted. Although Alabama struggled with 12 turnovers in the first half, they significantly improved, limiting themselves to just three in the second half.
Alabama shot 35-of-49 from the free-throw line (71%), a marked improvement from their first half. The Tide will look to refine their defense before their next exhibition game against Furman on October 26, which will air on ESPN+. Notably, guard Latrell Wrightsell, recovering from an Achilles injury, did not play, along with center Noah Williamson, who is dealing with a minor knee issue, and guard Jalil Bethea, sidelined with a broken foot.
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