UNC Asheville (0-0) at Alabama (0-0)
- When: Nov 4 2024, 9:00 PM
- Where: Coleman Coliseum, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
- Where to watch: ESPNU
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
NC Asheville @ Alabama (#2)
Moneyline
NC Asheville N/A
Alabama (#2) N/A
NC Asheville @ Alabama (#2)
Point Spread
NC Asheville 26.0 (-105)
Alabama (#2) -26.0 (-115)
NC Asheville @ Alabama (#2)
Total
Over 162.0 (-120)
Under 162.0 (EVEN)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| UNC Asheville | Alabama | |
| 0-0 | Record | 0-0 |
| – | Away & Home | – |
| – | ATS | – |
| – | O/U | – |
Last Matchup:
No previous meeting
Game Preview
Alabama reached new milestones last season, advancing to the NCAA Tournament Final Four.
Now, their challenge is to reach the sport’s peak once again.
The No. 2 Crimson Tide will kick off their journey with a season opener against UNC Asheville on Monday night in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Alabama finished 25-12 last season, winning four NCAA Tournament games and knocking out top-seeded North Carolina in the Sweet 16. Their run ended in the Final Four with an 86-72 loss to eventual champion UConn.
Alabama coach Nate Oats is cautious about setting high expectations this season.
"For us, last year is last year. It doesn’t impact what we’re doing this season," Oats said.
The Crimson Tide’s returning star, Mark Sears, a preseason first-team All-American and SEC Preseason Player of the Year, is set to lead the team. Last season, Sears averaged 21.5 points, setting single-season school records for points (797) and games with 20+ points (26). The 6-foot-1 guard also shot 43.6% from three, adding 4.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists.
Sears considered the NBA before deciding to stay.
“I saw the potential in our team, and I wanted to help bring Alabama its first basketball national title,” Sears shared at SEC Media Days.
Key returners include forward Grant Nelson (11.9 ppg, 5.9 rpg) and guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (8.9 ppg, 44.7% from three). New additions include transfer center Clifford Omoruyi (Rutgers) and two five-star McDonald’s All-Americans, Derrion Reid and Aiden Sherrell.
UNC Asheville, coming off a 22-12 season, has faced challenges after Hurricane Helene caused severe flooding in Asheville on Sept. 27. The Bulldogs relocated to Charlotte, N.C., and are practicing at local colleges and even the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets facility when available.
“We’re not victims,” said Asheville guard Josh Banks. “We’re grateful to still have a season and are focused on moving forward.”
Coach Mike Morrell mentioned potential schedule adjustments, with some home games possibly moved if Kimmel Arena remains unavailable. The game against Appalachian State was postponed to next season.
The Bulldogs will feel the absence of two-time Big South Player of the Year Drew Pember, with returning players Josh Banks (12.8 ppg) and Fletcher Abee (10.6 ppg) expected to step up. Morrell is confident about their depth, with eight new additions (six transfers and two freshmen) joining the roster.
NCAA Basketball Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Alabama 96-67
The Pick: Alabama -26 (-115) & Over 162 (-120)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
