### Alabama Crimson Tide Triumphs Over St. John's in High-Scoring Thriller The No. 15 Alabama Crimson Tide achieved a significant early-season victory by defeating the fifth-ranked St. John's Red Storm 103-96 at Madison Square Garden. This match marked a notable upset, showcasing Alabama's offensive prowess and resilience against a highly ranked opponent. Labaron Philon led the charge with 25 points, including a crucial three-pointer that helped secure the win in the final minutes. The game was characterized by a back-and-forth battle, with both teams demonstrating strong offensive capabilities, but ultimately, Alabama's execution in critical moments proved decisive. ### Breakdown of the Game's Key Elements 1. **Player Performances**: - Labaron Philon scored 25 points on 10-of-17 shooting, contributing significantly to Alabama's success. - Aden Holloway added 21 points after returning from injury, showcasing his scoring ability. - Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and Taylor Bol Bowen each contributed 17 points, providing depth to Alabama's offense. 2. **Game Dynamics**: - Alabama took control late in the first half, outscoring St. John's 16-6 to lead 53-44 at halftime. - St. John's attempted a comeback, briefly taking an 81-80 lead in the second half, but Alabama responded effectively. 3. **Statistical Highlights**: - Alabama shot 48.1% from the field and made 11 three-pointers. - St. John's had a higher overall shooting percentage at 49.2% but struggled at the free-throw line, missing 12 of 40 attempts. 4. **Implications of the Game**: - This victory halted St. John's 12-game winning streak at Madison Square Garden. - Alabama's win sets the stage for a challenging upcoming schedule, including games against top-ranked teams like Purdue and Gonzaga. ### Supporting Evidence and Statistics - **Scoring Breakdown**: - **Alabama**: - Labaron Philon: 25 points (10-of-17 FG) - Aden Holloway: 21 points (9-of-18 FG) - Latrell Wrightsell Jr.: 17 points (4-of-8 from three) - Taylor Bol Bowen: 17 points - **St. John's**: - Zuby Ejiofor: 27 points (20 in the first half) - Bryce Hopkins: 19 points - Ian Jackson: 14 points - **Shooting Percentages**: - Alabama: 48.1% FG, 27.3% 3PT - St. John's: 49.2% FG, 35.0% 3PT, but missed 12 free throws. ### Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Alabama **Alabama's victory over St. John's is a significant early-season achievement**, demonstrating their capability to compete against top-tier teams. The combination of strong individual performances, effective teamwork, and strategic execution in critical moments led to their success. As they prepare for a series of challenging games against ranked opponents, this win will serve as a confidence booster for the Crimson Tide moving forward. 1. Alabama showcased offensive depth with multiple players scoring in double figures. 2. The game highlighted the importance of free-throw shooting, which proved costly for St. John's. 3. This victory positions Alabama favorably as they face a tough schedule ahead, including matchups against other ranked teams [https://apnews.com/article/alabama-st-johns-score-bda6d024d48cdf4fc95cb016a443e439, https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-basketball/alabama/news/no-15-alabama-pulls-msg-upset-over-fifth-ranked-st-johns-103-96/be9e36819a19d59685224318, https://www.yardbarker.com/college_basketball/articles/no_15_alabama_withstands_comeback_to_top_no_5_st_johns/s1_17048_43036864, https://www.yardbarker.com/college_basketball/articles/labaron_philon_aden_holloway_highlight_offensive_outburst_as_alabama_beats_st_johns/s1_13132_43036671, https://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-basketball/alabama-st-johns-score-l34195, https://www.espn.ph/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46894467/no-15-alabama-upsets-5th-ranked-st-john-103-96-msg, https://www.thescore.com/ncaab/news/3391860/philon-drops-25-as-no-15-alabama-upends-5th-ranked-st-johns].