The Alabama Crimson Tide enters the Elite Eight riding a wave of offensive momentum and confidence, having showcased the most explosive scoring output of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Led by head coach Nate Oats, Alabama has compiled a 28-8 record this season and earned the No. 2 seed in their region through their signature high-tempo, three-point-heavy offensive system that has overwhelmed opponents all year. Their offensive identity centers on pace, spacing, and shot volume, with the Crimson Tide leading the nation in points per game (90.8), as well as ranking near the top in three-point attempts and makes. This strategy was on full display during their Sweet 16 matchup against BYU, when Alabama shattered NCAA Tournament history by sinking 25 three-pointers in a 113-88 rout. That performance not only showcased the efficiency of their offensive scheme but also the talent and rhythm of their perimeter shooters, headlined by senior guard Mark Sears, who exploded for 34 points and 10 threes. Sears, a transfer from Ohio University, has blossomed into the engine of Alabama’s offense, combining deep shooting range with veteran poise and an ability to get to the rim in transition. He’s averaging over 21 points per game in the tournament and serves as the primary ball handler and initiator in Oats’ wide-open offense. Alongside him are sharpshooters Aaron Estrada and Rylan Griffen, who space the floor effectively and stretch opposing defenses far beyond the arc. The frontcourt is anchored by Grant Nelson, a mobile big who adds floor-spacing and pick-and-pop ability, and Nick Pringle, who brings athleticism and rebounding on both ends.

Together, this starting unit has helped Alabama blitz defenses early and often, routinely scoring in the first 10 seconds of the shot clock and overwhelming slower, more traditional defenses with sheer volume. However, for all their offensive firepower, Alabama’s Achilles heel lies on the defensive end. The Crimson Tide allow over 82 points per game, ranking near the bottom of the Power 6 conferences in scoring defense. Their up-tempo system often leaves them vulnerable in transition and against well-structured half-court offenses. This will be especially problematic against Duke, whose methodical ball movement and interior presence can expose Alabama’s lack of rim protection and inconsistent perimeter defense. Alabama’s path to victory will likely depend on their ability to hit early and often from deep, force turnovers, and speed Duke out of their comfort zone. If the Crimson Tide can turn the game into a track meet and create chaos through pace and offensive rebounds, they can negate Duke’s defensive structure and force a shootout. Bench depth could also play a key role, with Jarin Stevenson and Latrell Wrightsell Jr. offering additional shooting and defensive versatility. Coach Nate Oats has fully leaned into his analytical, NBA-style offense, and his players have bought in. Now, just one win from the program’s first-ever Final Four appearance, Alabama faces its biggest test of the season in Duke—a team that thrives in half-court defense and takes pride in controlling pace. The Crimson Tide will need to play their cleanest, most efficient game of the year, but if their shots are falling and tempo is in their favor, they have the firepower to make history and punch their ticket to college basketball’s biggest stage.