Alabama Basketball Faces Challenge Against No. 5 Tennessee This Saturday

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Alabama‘s star point guard Mark Sears is listed as probable for Saturday’s matchup against No. 5 Tennessee, while freshman forward Derrion Reid is ruled out due to an ongoing hamstring injury. This marks the fourth consecutive game Reid will miss.

Reid, who previously missed significant time earlier in the season, returned briefly for Alabama’s loss to Auburn but has been sidelined since. Head coach Nate Oats described Reid’s condition as week-to-week during a media briefing on Friday, emphasizing the importance of his long-term health over short-term gains. “I think he’s going to be a pro,” Oats said. “He’s got all the intangibles… We really don’t want to hurt his long-term career by rushing something to win a game or two.”

In Reid’s absence, Alabama has struggled defensively, lacking his length and athleticism. Reid averaged 7.1 points and 3.2 rebounds per game this season, with his standout performance coming against Creighton in December when he registered 12 points and four rebounds.

Sears, crucial to Alabama’s offensive strategy, leads the team with 19 points and five assists per game. He has consistently delivered, scoring at least 20 points in three straight games, including a season-high 35 points against Kentucky on February 19. His recent performance includes a solid outing with 21 points and 10 assists in a 111-73 victory over Mississippi State on Tuesday. However, any setbacks in his health could significantly affect Alabama’s scoring against a formidable opponent like Tennessee.

The Crimson Tide (23-5, 12-3 SEC) and the Volunteers (23-5, 10-5) are set to take the court at 4 p.m. ET, live on ESPN. This contest is pivotal, as both teams are vying for top positioning in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) standings ahead of the postseason.

Along with Reid, Alabama’s injury report includes Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and Houston Mallette, who are confirmed to be out for the season. However, Oats did not express concern about Sears’ possible absence during the Friday press conference. The game is anticipated to be a critical clash that may determine playoff seeding.

As the Crimson Tide prepares for this challenging matchup, Oats reflects on how crucial every game becomes, especially against ranked opponents. “Every game we play the rest of the year is a top 25 team,” he stated, highlighting the competitive nature of the SEC this season.