Mark Sears Dominates as Alabama Crushes UNC Asheville
- Mark Sears scored 20 points, leading Alabama to a 110-54 victory.
- Clifford Omoruyi starred in his debut, making all six of his shot attempts.
- Alabama's strong defense and efficient shooting highlighted their dominance.
On November 4, 2024, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Mark Sears led the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide to a strong victory over UNC Asheville, winning 110-54 in their season opener. Sears showcased a stellar performance with 20 points from 6-for-8 shooting, including 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. The game featured impressive contributions from newcomer Clifford Omoruyi, who scored 16 points and secured eight rebounds in his Alabama debut. Five additional players also reached double figures in scoring. Defensively, Alabama held a significant advantage, effectively stifling UNC Asheville's offense. The Bulldogs experienced a crucial six-minute stretch during the first half where they failed to score, allowing Alabama to build a commanding lead. This strong defensive play, combined with potent shooting, was key to Alabama's victory, as they shot 63.3% from the field. UNC Asheville's Jordan Marsh led his team with 13 points but their overall offensive struggle was evident against Alabama’s defense. The game revealed potential deficiencies in UNC Asheville’s ability to compete against Power 5 teams, while Alabama demonstrated the depth and versatility of its roster, offering a promising outlook for the season ahead. Looking forward, Alabama will host Arkansas State in their next match, while UNC Asheville prepares for a game against Ohio, aiming to bounce back from this significant loss.