Aiden Sherrell’s strong performance on the boards propelled Alabama to a 90-70 victory over Hofstra, overcoming a 10-point deficit in the first half.
Sherrell’s Impact in the First Half
Sherrell managed to stay out of foul trouble against Hofstra, committing only one foul. He has previously struggled with fouls, committing three or more in 11 games this season and fouling out of three completely.
Amidst a struggling Alabama team in the first half, Sherrell was a standout performer, leading the team with 12 points. Sherrell also grabbed 8 rebounds in the first half.
Head coach Nate Oats highlighted Sherrell’s dominance on the offensive glass, noting, “He had six [offensive rebounds] in the first half and nobody else had one.”
Record-Breaking Rebound Performance
Sherrell’s contribution to the Crimson Tide’s effort came from his rebounds. He finished the game with 15 total rebounds, breaking his previous career record of 13, which he set earlier this season in a win over Arkansas.
He had 7 total rebounds in the second half.
Before the game against Hofstra, Sherrell was averaging 6.2 total rebounds per game. He averaged 2.8 total rebounds per game in his freshman year.
Philon’s Second-Half Surge
Labaron Philon took over the scoring in the second half, scoring 21 points, 13 more than he had in the first. Sherrell’s scoring slowed down in the second half.
Oats said that the team made rebounds “a bigger point of emphasis”. He added, “It was great to see Aiden Sherrell come up with 15 and Philon come up with eight.”
Alabama’s coach, Nate Oats, noted the increased focus on rebounding. He commended both Sherrell and Philon for their contributions on the boards.