The No. 25 Alabama basketball team prepares for a significant matchup against LSU on Saturday, February 21, marking their 14th game in SEC play and the 27th of the regular season. Following a setback against Florida on February 1, the Crimson Tide regrouped and have since claimed five consecutive victories, elevating their standing to second in the SEC.
Under the leadership of head coach Nate Oats, Alabama looks to extend its winning streak against the Tigers, having bested them in their last five encounters. Alabama’s recent form positions them as a strong contender as they approach the home stretch of the regular season.
For Saturday’s clash, the starting lineups are as follows:
Alabama:
– G Labaron Philon Jr.
– G Aden Holloway
– F Amari Allen
– F London Jemison
– F Aiden Sherrell
LSU:
– G Jalen Reece
– G Max Mackinnon
– F Pablo Tamba
– F Marquel Sutton
– C Michael Nwoko
In terms of player availability, Alabama welcomes back star guard Labaron Philon Jr., who was initially labeled as probable but confirmed to be available on game day. Several players will not feature for LSU, including Jalen Reed and Dedan Thomas.
Fans can catch the game at 5 p.m. CT at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with coverage provided by the SEC Network and the Crimson Tide Sports Network.
Historically, Alabama has an advantage in the series against LSU, leading 118-75, although their road record in Baton Rouge stands at 37-50. The last encounter between the two teams took place on January 25, 2025, where Alabama, then ranked No. 4, pulled off an 80-73 victory despite some challenges.
In their most recent game, Alabama achieved a thrilling victory against No. 20 Arkansas, winning 117-115 in double overtime, marking an impressive scoring feat that ranks as the second-most in the school’s history. Labaron Philon Jr. notably shone with a career-high 35 points, while Amari Allen and Aiden Sherrell both achieved double-doubles.
On the other hand, LSU is currently on a four-game losing streak, having narrowly lost 88-85 to Texas in their latest outing. Despite their struggles, Max Mackinnon stood out for LSU with 27 points in that game.
Fans are hoping for a continuation of Alabama’s positive momentum as they strive for a strong finish to the regular season.