Alabama overcomes sluggish start to beat Sam Houston 96-74

No. 20 Alabama opened its season with a 96-74 win over Sam Houston, overcoming a sluggish start to pull away with 54 second-half points. The Crimson Tide’s defense set the tone, forcing 23 turnovers and disrupting the Bearkats despite their strong 3-point shooting. Alabama also leaned on scoring in the paint and transition while its outside shooting found its rhythm. Drew Fielder and London Jemison led Alabama with 15 points apiece, and Jemison provided an early lift as the offense struggled. The performance offered an encouraging start for Nate Oats’ team, though its slow opening and Sam Houston’s 3-point success left areas to address.