No. 9 Alabama Defeats No. 6 Houston in Overtime at Players Era Festival

Mark Sears led Alabama with 24 points as Houston struggled offensively in overtime, scoring just two points in the extra period.

Alabama secured an 85-80 overtime victory against Houston in a physical matchup at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Mark Sears scored a season-high 24 points, including a decisive 3-pointer to open overtime, while Houston’s LJ Cryer tallied a career-high-tying 30 points but missed his last eight shots.
Houston managed only one basket in overtime, shooting 1-for-10 in the extra frame, as Alabama outscored them 7-2 to seal the win.
Alabama's bench contributed significantly, with Mouhamed Dioubate grabbing a career-best 16 rebounds and Aden Holloway adding 14 points.
Both teams return to action Wednesday, with Alabama facing Rutgers and Houston playing Notre Dame in the Players Era Festival.