ES 
NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
Alabama May Be Without Key Piece vs. 15 Seed Robert Morris
Alabama begins its quest for a second consecutive Final Four appearance on Friday when it faces Robert Morris in a first-round matchup in the East Region in Cleveland.
Alabama’s Status Heading Into the Tournament
The No. 2-seeded Crimson Tide (25-8) enter the tournament following a loss to Florida in the SEC semifinals. However, the team’s biggest concern is the health of star forward Grant Nelson. The 6-foot-11 senior, who averages 11.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, is dealing with a left knee injury and remains questionable for Friday.
Join The Conversation—Read The Latest Blog Posts On Scores And Stats.
“We need to get him healthy. Not sure he will be ready by Friday. We’re hoping at a minimum he’ll be ready by Sunday with the possibility of maybe Friday.” — Nate Oats
Despite losing three of their past five games, the Crimson Tide still boast the nation’s most potent offense, averaging 91.1 points per game while shooting 48.3% from the field. Even if Nelson is unavailable, Alabama will have a significant size advantage over Robert Morris.
Robert Morris Looks to Make History
The No. 15-seeded Colonials (26-8) are back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015 after winning the Horizon League Tournament. Robert Morris enters on a 10-game winning streak and is making its ninth overall appearance in March Madness.
Head coach Andy Toole, who is familiar with Alabama coach Nate Oats from Oats’ time at Buffalo, understands the challenge that lies ahead.
“Obviously Alabama has had one of the best seasons in college basketball, a Final Four team last year. A dynamic team. We know we’ve got a lot of work to do between now and Friday.” — Andy Toole
Kam Woods leads the Colonials in scoring at 15.1 points per game, while Alvaro Folgueiras adds 14.1 points and a team-high 9.1 rebounds. Folgueiras, at 6-foot-9, is Robert Morris’ tallest player and will have the tough task of battling Alabama’s frontcourt.
Track Every College Basketball Team’s Performance!
Handicapping Get in-depth stats & rankings
Key Matchup Factors
Alabama’s high-powered offense will be difficult to contain, but Robert Morris will look to slow the game down and control the tempo. The Crimson Tide’s perimeter shooting (35% from three) could play a crucial role, as Robert Morris will likely attempt to pack the paint and limit easy baskets inside.
For those following March Madness expert predictions, this matchup highlights the contrast between a high-flying offense and an underdog looking to grind out a historic upset.
