TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (November 8, 2024) – In a Friday night clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Arkansas State Red Wolves men’s basketball team delivered a spirited performance against No. 2 Alabama, ultimately falling 88-79 at Coleman Coliseum.
The Red Wolves (1-1) demonstrated resilience, leveling the score at 70 with under eight minutes remaining, threatening to upset the formidable Crimson Tide (2-0). However, Alabama weathered the storm, securing victory through crucial baskets and successful free throws in the game’s final stretch. Arkansas State’s impressive 79-point score marks their highest against a top-25 opponent since their 80-point game against No. 11 Wichita State on December 19, 2017.
Both teams displayed similar shooting accuracy, hitting 40 percent from the field, and the game was characterized by numerous free throw attempts, totaling 80. The Red Wolves converted 23 of 36 free throws (63.9 percent), while Alabama made 28 of 44 (63.6 percent). Alabama held a 50-41advantage in rebounds, with 14 offensive boards contributing to their second-chance opportunities.
Kobe Julien of the Red Wolves led all scorers with a game-high 20 points, half of which came from the free-throw line. Taryn Todd contributed 18 points, and Rashaud Marshall posted a career-high 11 points alongside eight rebounds.
Alabama’s scoring was distributed among five players in double figures, led by Mark Sears with 19 points. Clifford Omoruyi, Grant Nelson, and Labaron Philon each scored 12, and Derrion Reid added 10. Omoruyi was the game’s leading rebounder with nine.
Arkansas State started strong, taking an early lead with a three-pointer from Julien. Alabama then surged ahead, building a 16-point lead by the 6:01 mark in the first half. However, the Red Wolves rallied impressively, concluding the first half with an 18-5 run, narrowing Alabama’s lead to just three points at halftime.
The second half saw Arkansas State consistently within seven points of Alabama until a three-pointer by Reid with 10:11 left extended Alabama’s lead back to 10 at 67-57. Showing their tenacity, the Red Wolves fought back once more, tying the game at 70 with 7:08 remaining thanks to an 11-1 run, capped by a score from Joseph Pinion.
Alabama regained control, extending their lead to 11 points with less than two minutes to play when Philon made a close-range jumper. Julien brought Arkansas State back within seven points with two free throws in the final 30 seconds, but Alabama ultimately secured the victory, sealing the game with two free throws from Philon.
NEXT GAME
The Red Wolves will return home to First National Bank Arena for a three-game home stand, starting on Tuesday, November 12, against in-state rivals Little Rock. The game against the Trojans is scheduled for a 7 p.m. tip-off and will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
STAY CONNECTED
For continuous updates on the A-State men’s basketball program, follow @AStateMB on Twitter/X and @astatemb on Instagram, and like their Facebook page at Facebook.com/AStateMB.
