Shockers will be big test for Alabama...

    Tide running out of chances to make NCAA ...

    

Baker may not play

    The Wichita State Shockers have won their first ten games this season. Alabama has won its last 15 home games in Coleman Coliseum. Somethings got to give one way or the other. If the Crimson Tide is going to do anything good this season they need to start tonight.  Alabama is listed as a five point underdog by the Vegas Line makers.

       Here are couple of stats they bear discussion. Rodney Cooper is our leading rebound with just over five per game. Retin Obasahan is our leading shot blocker at almost two per game. Does that sound as odd to you as it does me. Cooper is out boarding both Taylor and Jacobs? Obasahan to blocking more shots from the two position than our inside players?  Stats can be misleading. These stats show some real problems with our team.

       I'll give credit to the team for shutting down a high scoring team earlier without their leading scorer. From all reports it seems that Trevor will be ready to go full speed tonight. The Shockers have their own injury problem with leading scorer Ron Baker, the 6-3 shooter, limping from a bad ankle injury. He will probably try to play but might be limited. In the last game without Baker the Shockers ripped Tennessee 70-61.

         The Tide's record is now 5-4. Tonight is Wichita State. Then come Xavier and UCLA on the road. Bama must win win a couple of those games and then have phenomenal SEC season to make the NCAA. Given the severe limitations f this team that is highly unlikely. Still.... Tide fans always hope for the best even as complain about the team. I think that Grant has finally addressed some roster problems with two transfers and a good recruiting class. Only Releford leaves the team this season. I think that Bama is going to play hard tonight. If Baker doesn't play tonight we might have a chance. Otherwise, I see a long hard night ahead.