Alabama moves deeper into the NCAA Tournament spotlight after a commanding opening-round win, setting up a high-stakes second-round meeting with Texas Tech. The matchup features two ranked teams with contrasting styles and roster challenges, both aiming to secure a place in the Sweet 16.
With strong guard play on both sides and recent momentum in their favor, this contest promises a competitive battle in Tampa. Here’s a complete breakdown of when and where to watch, along with key storylines, performances, and what to expect as Alabama and Texas Tech collide.
How to Watch Alabama vs. Texas Tech in the NCAA Tournament
Game Details
Date: March 22, 2026
Time: 8:45 p.m. CT
Location: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida
How to Watch
TV: TBS
Livestream: Sling
Radio: Local team radio broadcasts
Livestream:
Available via Sling
Announcers:
Tom McCarthy, Candace Parker, Dan Bonner, AJ Ross on the sidelines
Alabama enters this contest following a convincing 90-70 victory over Hofstra, powered by a dominant second half and contributions across the roster. Labaron Philon took control after the break, scoring 21 of his 29 points in the final 20 minutes while also adding eight rebounds and seven assists.
Aiden Sherrell delivered a standout all-around effort with 15 points and 15 rebounds, helping Alabama establish control on the glass. The team’s ability to generate second-chance opportunities proved decisive, finishing with a 46-34 rebounding edge, including 17 offensive boards.
The turning point came late, when Philon knocked down a key three-pointer before Taylor Bol Bowen pushed the margin further with a dunk. Alabama ultimately stretched the lead to 20 by the final buzzer, its largest advantage of the game.
Depth played a major role in the win. Bowen added 15 points off the bench, including two shots from beyond the arc, while Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and Amari Allen chipped in 11 points each.
Texas Tech Brings a Guard-Heavy Approach Into Marquee Matchup
Texas Tech advanced with a 91-71 win over Akron, leaning on a collective offensive effort that saw five players score at least 14 points. Jaylen Petty led the way with 24, highlighting the Red Raiders’ depth despite a major setback earlier in the season.
The absence of forward JT Toppin, lost to a torn ACL, has forced Texas Tech to adapt, particularly in rebounding. The team now relies heavily on its guards to contribute across the board. As forward LeJuan Watts explained, “I think that the guards since JT has been injured have stepped up for us.” That shift has reshaped the team’s identity heading into this matchup.
Alabama coach Nate Oats emphasized the tactical challenge, noting, “This team does as good a job as anybody as I’ve seen at hunting mismatches.” The Red Raiders’ ability to exploit defensive gaps and control tempo contrasts with Alabama’s preference for a faster pace.
Rebounding remains a critical concern for Texas Tech, especially after seeing Alabama’s dominance on the boards in the previous game. Coach Grant McCasland acknowledged the issue, stating, “Guard rebounding is huge for us. When we play our best, our guards are five rebounds-plus each, and that’s where it feels like we need to create advantages.”
Perimeter shooting could ultimately decide the outcome. As Oats put it, “We like to get 3s off. So do they. If we can get more good looks off than them, I like our chances.”
With both teams capable of shooting from long range and evenly ranked, execution in key moments will likely determine who advances.
