Alabama emerged victorious in a highly intense and physical showdown against sixth-ranked Houston in the Players Era tournament tonight. The game was a true battle from the very start, with both teams leaving it all on the court.

Alabama's Last-Minute Heroics Secure Overtime Win

Game Beginnings and Defensive Struggles

Alabama faced an early challenge as they turned the ball over four times in their first five possessions. However, their elite defensive effort kept them in the game. Mark Sears, who had a scoring drought initially, finally broke through with a deep three fifteen minutes into the game. Grant Nelson and Aden Holloway filled the scoring void, providing a balanced attack.The intensity was palpable as these two teams went at it, resembling an Elite Eight game. Mo Dioubate was a force to be reckoned with, being seemingly everywhere on the court - on the glass, blocking shots, and making things happen on offense. The rest of the team fed off his energy, and Alabama started to assert itself a bit as the game went on.

Second Half Ups and Downs

The second half was just as physical. Alabama maintained a small cushion for about three minutes but then Houston's elite three-point shooting keyed a 10-0 run to take a four-point lead. This stretch was brutal for Alabama, with hot shooting by Houston and a couple of bad turnovers. LJ Cryer led both teams in scoring, and Houston's other two starting guards, Emanuel Sharp and Milos Uzan, fouled out.Despite Houston maintaining the lead down the stretch, Alabama refused to give up. Sears got to the line and pulled the Tide within two with just over a minute to play. After a pair of made free throws by Houston, Sears came back with a big three to tie the game at 78 with 27 seconds left.

Overtime Drama

In overtime, Cryer opened with an ugly three-point attempt, and both teams turned the ball over, perhaps showing some fatigue after the intense 40-minute battle. Sears opened the scoring with a three from the wing, and the Tide managed to keep the Cougars at bay. Mark ended up leading the Tide in scoring with 24 points.This game truly showcased the effort put forth by these national title contending teams. Each has a game tomorrow night, and it will be interesting to see how much they have left in the tank. Alabama still has the elite guard play and the ability to win battles above the rim. If they play with this kind of effort all season, the possibilities are endless.Cliff Omoruyi gets to play against his former team, Rutgers, tomorrow night. Roll Tide!