Alabama Dominates Sam Houston in Season Opener
Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 7:30 PM ET · Coleman Coliseum
Alabama Crimson Tide 96, Sam Houston Bearkats 74, final. Our NCAAB picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Sam Houston Bearkats vs Alabama Crimson Tide?
Alabama Crimson Tide beat Sam Houston Bearkats 96-74 at Coleman Coliseum on November 3, 2026.
Who was favored in Sam Houston Bearkats vs Alabama Crimson Tide?
Alabama Crimson Tide were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -8000 (about 99% implied). The favorite won.
In a commanding performance, the Alabama Crimson Tide secured a decisive victory over the Sam Houston Bearkats, finishing the game with a score of 96-74. This matchup, held at Coleman Coliseum, showcased Alabama's offensive prowess, continuing their strong form from the previous season. Alabama entered the game with a home record of 1-0 and a recent overall record of 8-2 in their last ten games, averaging 91.9 points scored and allowing 84.5 points per game. Despite a recent loss to Ole Miss, Alabama demonstrated their ability to bounce back, particularly at home where they have been formidable, holding a 4-1 record in their last five home games.
On the other hand, the Sam Houston Bearkats came into this game with an away record of 0-1 and a recent overall record of 6-4. Their scoring average stood at 80.1 points, while they allowed an average of 76.4 points per game. Sam Houston's recent performance included a loss to Kennesaw State, which extended their losing streak to one. Their away record has been less impressive, with only one win in their last four away games.
The game began with Alabama asserting their dominance early, leveraging their home-court advantage. The Crimson Tide's offensive strategy was evident as they maintained a high scoring pace throughout the contest. Alabama's last five games saw them score an average of 86.8 points while allowing 81.2 points, indicating their offensive strength despite some defensive vulnerabilities.
In contrast, Sam Houston struggled to keep pace, particularly in the second half, where Alabama pulled away decisively. The Bearkats' last five games had them averaging 76.0 points scored and 76.6 points allowed, reflecting a balanced but ultimately less potent attack compared to Alabama's high-octane offense.
The odds heading into the game reflected Alabama's strong position, with DraftKings listing the Crimson Tide as 27.5-point favorites. The total points over/under was set at 172.5, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair. Alabama's moneyline was heavily favored at -8000, while Sam Houston was listed at +2200, showcasing the market's confidence in Alabama's ability to win.
As the game progressed, several key scoring plays highlighted Alabama's offensive depth. Notable moments included Aidan McDowell's 23-foot three-point jumper and Jaxon Richardson's alley-oop dunk, both of which contributed to Alabama's growing lead. The Crimson Tide's ability to capitalize on offensive rebounds and create scoring opportunities was evident, particularly in the second half.
Sam Houston attempted to mount a comeback, with Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson scoring on a tip-in layup and Qayden Samuels making crucial free throws. However, their efforts fell short as Alabama maintained control of the game, ultimately sealing the victory with a final score of 96-74.
In terms of player performances, Alabama's scoring was well-distributed, with multiple players contributing significantly to the final tally. The Bearkats, while showing flashes of potential, were unable to match the intensity and execution displayed by the Crimson Tide.
The conditions at Coleman Coliseum were favorable for a high-paced game, with a lively crowd supporting the home team. As the season progresses, Alabama will look to build on this strong start, while Sam Houston will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses to improve their chances in upcoming matchups. Overall, this fixture showcased Alabama's capabilities as a strong contender in the league, while Sam Houston will need to find ways to enhance their performance on the road.
What we said beforehand
The Alabama Crimson Tide will face the Sam Houston Bearkats in their season opener at Coleman Coliseum on November 4, 2026. Both teams enter this matchup with a record of 0-0, marking the beginning of a new campaign for each. Alabama is currently favored by 27.5 points according to DraftKings, with a total set at 172.5. The Crimson Tide have shown strong offensive capabilities in their recent games, averaging 91.9 points scored and allowing 84.5 points over their last ten contests, while Sam Houston has averaged 80.1 points scored and 76.4 points allowed.
In their last five games, Alabama has a record of 3-2, with their most recent result being a loss against the Michigan Wolverines, where they fell 90-77. Prior to that, they secured victories against the Auburn Tigers (96-84), Hofstra Pride (90-70), and Texas Tech Red Raiders (90-65). In contrast, Sam Houston has struggled recently, also posting a 2-3 record in their last five games. Their last outing resulted in a loss to the Kennesaw State Owls (79-73) after a win against the New Mexico State Aggies (69-61).
Alabama's performance at home has been solid, with a home record of 4-1 in their last ten games, while Sam Houston has struggled on the road, managing only one win in their last four away games, resulting in an away record of 1-3. The Bearkats will need to improve their away performance to challenge the Crimson Tide effectively.
Weather conditions for the game are expected to be cloudy with a temperature of 72°F and an 80% chance of precipitation, along with gusts of 7 mph. These conditions may play a role in the atmosphere of the game, though they are not typical factors in basketball.
As the teams prepare to clash, viewers should watch for Alabama's offensive strategy, which has been prolific in recent outings, and how Sam Houston adapts to the high-scoring environment expected in this matchup. With both teams eager to start their season on a positive note, this game promises to be an exciting opener.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | ALA -27.5 | 172.5 o -112 / u -108 | Sam Houston Bearkats +2200 · Alabama Crimson Tide -8000 |
Leaders
- PointsDrew Fielder15Alabama Crimson Tide
- AssistsQayden Samuels5Alabama Crimson Tide
- ReboundsTarris Bouie7Alabama Crimson Tide
- PointsJacobe Coleman16Sam Houston Bearkats
- AssistsZion Pipkin6Sam Houston Bearkats
- ReboundsEnel St. Bernard8Sam Houston Bearkats
Recent form
Alabama Crimson Tide
Last 10: 8-2Streak L191.9 scored · 84.5 allowed per game4-1 at home
- L79-80vs Ole Miss RebelsMar 13
- W96-84vs Auburn TigersMar 8
- L88-98at Georgia BulldogsMar 3
- W71-69at Tennessee VolunteersFeb 28
- W100-75vs Mississippi State BulldogsFeb 26
- W90-83at LSU TigersFeb 21
- W117-115vs Arkansas RazorbacksFeb 19
- W89-75vs South Carolina GamecocksFeb 15
- W93-74at Ole Miss RebelsFeb 12
- W96-92at Auburn TigersFeb 7
Sam Houston Bearkats
Last 10: 6-4Streak L180.1 scored · 76.4 allowed per game1-3 away
- L73-79vs Kennesaw State OwlsMar 13
- W69-61vs New Mexico State AggiesMar 12
- L72-79at Liberty FlamesMar 7
- L80-83at Delaware Blue HensMar 6
- W86-81vs Missouri State BearsFeb 28
- W100-67vs Florida International PanthersFeb 27
- W82-78vs Jacksonville State GamecocksFeb 21
- W78-70vs Middle Tennessee Blue RaidersFeb 19
- W83-79at Kennesaw State OwlsFeb 14
- L78-87at Louisiana Tech BulldogsFeb 7
Standings
| Team | Overall | Games behind | In conference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Florida International | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Jacksonville State | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Kennesaw State | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Middle Tennessee | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Missouri State | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Western Kentucky | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| New Mexico State | 0-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Liberty | 0-1 | - | 0-0 |
| Sam Houston | 0-1 | - | 0-0 |
| Alabama | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Florida | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Georgia | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Kentucky | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Ole Miss | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Mississippi State | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Missouri | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| South Carolina | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Tennessee | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Texas | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Vanderbilt | 1-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Arkansas | 0-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Auburn | 0-0 | - | 0-0 |
| LSU | 0-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Texas A&M | 0-0 | - | 0-0 |
| Oklahoma | 0-1 | - | 0-0 |
Box score
| Stat | Sam Houston Bearkats | Alabama Crimson Tide |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 25-65 | 36-75 |
| Field goal % | 38 | 48 |
| Three-pointers | 15-33 | 10-31 |
| Three-point % | 45 | 32 |
| Free throws | 9-16 | 14-19 |
| Free throw % | 56 | 74 |
| Rebounds | 45 | 42 |
| Offensive rebounds | 15 | 13 |
| Defensive rebounds | 30 | 29 |
| Assists | 17 | 17 |
| Steals | 7 | 17 |
| Blocks | 6 | 10 |
| Turnovers | 23 | 10 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 13 | 33 |
| Fast-break points | 11 | 41 |
| Points in the paint | 18 | 48 |
| Fouls | 16 | 16 |
| Largest lead | 0 | 32 |
| Lead changes | 0 | 0 |
| Time in front | 0 | 97 |
How the scoring went
- 2nd Half34-56Zion Pipkin makes 24-foot three point jumper (Riccardo Greppi assists)
- 2nd Half34-57Amari Allen makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half34-58Amari Allen makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Half34-61Keitenn Bristow makes 24-foot three point jumper
- 2nd Half37-61Xavier Roberson makes 24-foot three point jumper (Zion Pipkin assists)
- 2nd Half39-61Xavier Roberson makes layup (Zion Pipkin assists)
- 2nd Half39-63Tarris Bouie makes layup
- 2nd Half39-64Tarris Bouie makes free throw 1 of 1
- 2nd Half39-67Tarris Bouie makes 24-foot three point jumper (Jaxon Richardson assists)
- 2nd Half39-69Drew Fielder makes layup (Qayden Samuels assists)
- 2nd Half42-69Aidan McDowell makes 23-foot three point jumper (Justin Begg assists)
- 2nd Half45-69Justin Begg makes 24-foot three point jumper (Enel St. Bernard assists)
- 2nd Half45-71Drew Fielder makes 0-foot tip in layup
- 2nd Half45-73Anderson Diaz makes layup
- 2nd Half45-76Drew Fielder makes 24-foot three point jumper (Jamarion Davis-Fleming assists)
- 2nd Half47-76Justin Begg makes layup
- 2nd Half47-78Anderson Diaz makes layup
- 2nd Half47-79Brandon Garrison makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half50-79Justin Begg makes 27-foot three point jumper (Zion Pipkin assists)
- 2nd Half52-79Enel St. Bernard makes 2-foot alley oop dunk (Justin Begg assists)
- 2nd Half54-79Justin Begg makes layup
- 2nd Half54-81London Jemison makes layup
- 2nd Half55-81Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half55-83Cole Cloer makes 0-foot tip in layup
- 2nd Half58-83Justin Begg makes 23-foot three point jumper (Zion Pipkin assists)
- 2nd Half58-85Amari Allen makes layup
- 2nd Half58-86Drew Fielder makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half58-87Drew Fielder makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Half61-87Jacobe Coleman makes 24-foot three point jumper (Justin Begg assists)
- 2nd Half61-90Amari Allen makes 24-foot three point jumper (Drew Fielder assists)
- 2nd Half61-92Jamarion Davis-Fleming makes 3-foot alley oop dunk (Qayden Samuels assists)
- 2nd Half64-92Jacobe Coleman makes 24-foot three point jumper (Zion Pipkin assists)
- 2nd Half67-92Aidan McDowell makes 23-foot three point jumper (Enel St. Bernard assists)
- 2nd Half67-94Jaxon Richardson makes 3-foot alley oop dunk (Qayden Samuels assists)
- 2nd Half69-94Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson makes 0-foot tip in layup
- 2nd Half69-95Qayden Samuels makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half69-96Qayden Samuels makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Half70-96Riccardo Greppi makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Half71-96Riccardo Greppi makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Half74-96Rylan Kelly makes 22-foot three point jumper (Xavier Roberson assists)
Win probability
Above the line favours Alabama Crimson Tide, below favours Sam Houston Bearkats.
Venue
- Coleman ColiseumTuscaloosa, AL
Elsewhere
- Milan Momcilovic reflects on UK debut as teammates heckle him
- London Jemison, Drew Fielder power No. 20 Alabama to 96-74 win over Sam Houston State
- Ben Hammond, Jaylen Curry lead Virginia Tech to 88-54 victory over Coppin State in season opener
- Fernandez's 20 points pace South Carolina past Stetson 81-55
- Alabama opens their season with big win over Sam Houston
- Hampton Pirates vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Game Highlights