No. 5 Alabama (14-2) secured a thrilling 94-88 victory at No. 10 Texas A&M on Saturday, marking head coach Nate Oats’ first career win in College Station. The Crimson Tide remained undefeated in SEC play, riding strong rebounding, clutch shooting, and a standout bench performance.
Alabama guard Chris Youngblood made a significant impact, contributing 14 points off the bench—his best of the season—while also adding five rebounds, an assist, and a steal. He shot 50% from beyond the arc, setting a new personal scoring high.
Oats praised Youngblood’s performance, noting his leadership and competitive spirit, especially as he continues to recover from ankle surgery. “He’s a winner, a competitor, a leader. You want him in, and tonight he stepped up,” Oats said, highlighting Youngblood’s ability to hit tough shots and contribute defensively.
Youngblood, who missed the start of the season due to injury, had struggled with his shooting but found his rhythm against the Aggies, showing signs of returning to form. After transferring from South Florida, where he was named conference player of the year, Youngblood hit timely 3-pointers, helping extend Alabama’s lead in the first half. He was pivotal in the second half, adding eight points on just three shots, and contributing key rebounds and a steal in the final stretch.
The victory, bolstered by contributions from Jarin Stevenson, Aden Holloway, and Mark Sears, ensured Alabama maintained its perfect SEC record. The team heads home next to face No. 23 Ole Miss on Tuesday, aiming for a fourth consecutive SEC win.
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