Philon Leads Bama to Victory Over St. John’s at MSG
In an exciting matchup at Madison Square Garden, the No. 15 Alabama Crimson Tide secured a thrilling 103-96 victory over fifth-ranked St. John’s. This game marked Alabama’s first appearance at MSG since the 2013-14 season, showcasing their talent against a formidable opponent.
Key Performers and Stats
Labaron Philon Jr. led Alabama with an impressive 25 points, scoring a crucial deep three-pointer that extended their lead to 98-88 in the closing minutes. His shooting was a standout moment in a game filled with ups and downs.
Philon’s performance came as no surprise, as he shot 10-of-17 from the field. He was instrumental during the game, helping the Crimson Tide withstand a late comeback attempt from St. John’s. Alongside him, Aden Holloway contributed 21 points, showing resilience after missing the previous game due to a wrist injury.
Supporting Players
- Taylor Bol Bowen: 17 points
- Latrell Wrightsell: 17 points
Both Holloway and Wrightsell were effective, hitting six of Alabama’s 11 three-pointers. As a team, the Crimson Tide shot 48.1% from the field, which was pivotal in securing the victory.
Game Highlights
Alabama took control late in the first half, outscoring St. John’s 16-6 to establish a 53-44 halftime lead. Holloway’s buzzer-beater three-pointer capped off a strong finish to the half. They maintained a 10-point advantage early in the second half. However, St. John’s rallied, taking an 81-80 lead with a three-pointer from Joson Sanon with just over eight minutes remaining.
St. John’s Performance
- Zuby Ejiofor: 27 points
- Bryce Hopkins: 19 points
- Ian Jackson: 14 points
Despite their efforts, St. John’s struggled at the free-throw line, missing 12 attempts, which ultimately impacted the game’s outcome. Their shooting percentage was 49.2%, showing their offensive capabilities but falling short in key moments.
Upcoming Matches
The victory improved Alabama’s record to 2-0 as they continue their challenging schedule. They will face top-ranked Purdue on Thursday, followed by matches against Illinois and Gonzaga. Meanwhile, St. John’s, now 1-1, will host William & Mary next Saturday night.
