SEC Hoops Preview: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide

The Tennessee Volunteers will travel to Tuscaloosa and visit the Alabama Crimson Tide. Both teams hold top five rankings in the SEC coming into the game on Saturday.

Tennessee on the Rise

The Vols are on the rise after winning six straight games. This winning streak will continue if they defeat the Crimson Tide on Saturday. Last week, they beat the No. 4 (SEC) Kentucky Wildcats on the road. Tennessee is thirsty for another away win.

Now No. 2 in the SEC, Tennessee has not allowed another team to score more that 63 points against them. Coach Rick Barnes says he puts an emphasis on defense after they “hadn’t been able to play defense at all for two years.” Without having the emotions of a home game, the Vols are relying on their defense to alleviate pressure off their offense. Now averaging 36 rebounds per game, their defense is a force to be reckoned with.

What's Next? ⏩ pic.twitter.com/VMXrG8OCEb

— Tennessee Basketball (@Vol_Hoops) February 8, 2018

Team Stats

Right now, forward Grant Williams leads the team in points per game. On defense, forward Admiral Schofield leads the team in rebounds per game.

As a team, the Vols average 77 points per game.

Alabama

On Tuesday, the Crimson Tide fell to Mississippi State. Heading back home, Alabama hopes to secure a win against Tennessee.

Coach Avery Johnson believes the team struggles with consistency on offense. His goals for the matchup against Tennessee include, better spacing on drives and eliminating critical turnovers. Alabama will take advantage of being home in the Coleman Coliseum on Saturday.

Team Stats

Currently, guard Collin Sexton leads the team in points per game. Defensively, Donta Hall leads the team in rebounds per game.

As a team, the Crimson Tide average 73 points per game.

Game Details

According to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index, the Vols are predicted to win.

Where: Tuscaloosa, Alabama Coleman Coliseum

When: Saturday at 6:00 p.m.