The Tigers take on Alabama in the first round of the SEC Tournament in Athens, GA (6PM Central | TV: SEC Network)
The 2000 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off with an electrifying first-round clash between two of the conference’s most iconic programs: the LSU Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide. This highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for a 6:00 PM Central tip-off on March 10, 2000, at the University of Georgia’s Stegeman Coliseum in Athens, GA, and will be broadcast nationally on the SEC Network. As both teams prepare for a critical game that could make or break their postseason hopes, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner advances to the quarterfinals, where a date with a higher seed awaits, while the loser faces the grim reality of being sent home with no chance of a postseason berth.
The SEC Tournament, which gathers the best teams from the Southeastern Conference for a week-long, single-elimination showdown, holds significant weight for LSU and Alabama. The conference is known for its competitive nature, with schools like Kentucky, Arkansas, and Tennessee frequently vying for dominance. The SEC Tournament serves as a proving ground for teams looking to boost their NCAA Tournament résumés and demonstrate their ability to compete on the national stage.
For LSU and Alabama, both teams are squarely in the middle of the pack in the SEC standings and need a strong tournament run to improve their standing with the selection committee. While both squads have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the regular season, consistency has eluded them at times. With that in mind, this opening-round game offers an intriguing opportunity for both programs to take a step forward as they approach the postseason.
LSU enters the SEC Tournament with a record of 17-13 overall and 8-8 in SEC play. The Tigers are led by a talented and hardworking group, but their journey to this point has been far from smooth. Head coach John Brady has worked tirelessly to guide his team through the ups and downs of the regular season, and now, in the SEC Tournament, LSU has a chance to make a statement.
The Tigers have several key players who have shown the ability to take over a game. Senior guard Antonio Hudson has been LSU’s offensive leader all season, averaging 17.5 points per game. Hudson is known for his ability to drive to the basket and finish in traffic, and he also possesses a dangerous outside shot. His scoring ability will be crucial in LSU’s success against Alabama.
Another player to watch is junior forward Jarrell Houston, who has emerged as one of the team’s most versatile players. Houston has been a key contributor both offensively and defensively, averaging 9.3 points per game and 6.8 rebounds. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his strength in the paint will give LSU a well-rounded attack. Houston’s matchup against Alabama’s interior defenders will be crucial in determining the flow of the game.
LSU’s defense has been a focal point all season. While the Tigers have had their struggles on the offensive end, their defense has been stout at times. LSU’s pressure defense can cause turnovers, leading to fast-break opportunities. Their ability to disrupt Alabama’s offensive flow will be key if they want to advance in the tournament.
One of LSU’s biggest challenges in this game will be dealing with Alabama’s high-powered offense, led by a dynamic backcourt. LSU will need to stay disciplined, limit fouls, and avoid allowing the Crimson Tide to get into rhythm from beyond the arc. If the Tigers can execute their defensive game plan and avoid the cold shooting slumps that have plagued them in the past, they will put themselves in a strong position to win.
Alabama, under the leadership of head coach David Hobbs, enters the SEC Tournament with a similar record to LSU, standing at 18-12 overall and 9-7 in SEC play. While the Crimson Tide has had its share of highs and lows throughout the season, they remain a dangerous team capable of making a deep run in the tournament.
Alabama’s offensive attack is spearheaded by their star player, senior guard Maurice “Mo” Williams. Williams, who averages 17.2 points per game, is one of the most dynamic and explosive players in the conference. He is a proven scorer who can light up the scoreboard in a hurry, whether it’s from long range or driving to the basket. His scoring ability is complemented by his playmaking, as he also averages 4.8 assists per game. Williams’ ability to break down defenses and create opportunities for his teammates will be a critical factor in Alabama’s success.
