TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – A big basketball showdown is set for Saturday night as No. 5 Alabama kicks off its tough SEC schedule by hosting No. 12 Oklahoma inside Coleman Coliseum. The game tips off at 5 p.m. and will air on SEC Network.

Oklahoma, one of the last undefeated teams in the nation with a 13-0 record, has exceeded expectations this season. Interestingly, the Sooners now feature former Alabama forward Mohamed Wague on their roster. Here’s a closer look at what to expect in this exciting matchup:

**Oklahoma’s Surprising Run:**
Oklahoma has shocked many by remaining unbeaten so far, despite being predicted to finish near the bottom of the SEC standings in preseason rankings. They currently boast the No. 3 strength of record according to ESPN. However, their schedule hasn’t been nearly as tough as Alabama’s. Oklahoma’s non-conference opponents rank just 222nd in strength of schedule nationally, and only one of their wins came against a ranked team. This game against Alabama will be a true test to see if Oklahoma’s perfect run is for real.

**Alabama’s Injury Update:**
Freshman forward Derrion Reid, who missed Alabama’s last game due to an ankle injury, is expected to return on Saturday. Head coach Nate Oats confirmed that Reid has been participating in warmups and should be ready to contribute.

**Alabama’s Strong SEC Starts:**
Under Coach Nate Oats, Alabama has a strong history of starting SEC play on a high note, going 4-1 in SEC openers during his tenure. This includes winning their last four straight conference openers. The question is whether they can keep this momentum going against a red-hot Oklahoma team.

**Broadcast Information:**
– **Radio:** Crimson Tide Sports Network (Commentators: Chris Stewart and Bryan Passink) – Pregame starts an hour before tipoff.
– **TV:** SEC Network

**Head-to-Head History:**
The Sooners hold a 7-3 advantage over the Crimson Tide in their all-time series, which dates back to December 14, 1970. In their most recent clash during last season’s SEC/Big 12 Challenge, Oklahoma dominated Alabama with a decisive 93-69 victory. While multiple Alabama players scored in double figures, they couldn’t match the combined 56 points from Oklahoma’s Grant Sherfield and Jalen Hill.

**Alabama’s Last Game Recap:**
Alabama wrapped up its non-conference games on a high note with a big 105-82 win over South Dakota State last Sunday. The Crimson Tide had one of its best offensive performances of the season, making 37 of 78 shots from the field and hitting 19 three-pointers. Guard Labaron Philon stood out with a season-high 21 points, along with six assists, five rebounds, and two steals. His impressive play earned him SEC Freshman of the Week honors for the second time this year.

**Oklahoma’s Last Game Recap:**
The Sooners stayed perfect with an 89-67 win over Prairie View A&M in their final non-conference matchup. Forward Jalon Moore led the team with 22 points, while guards Jeremiah Fears and Duke Miles added 19 and 17 points, respectively. The trio shot an efficient 18-for-27 from the field and converted 19-of-20 free throws.

This game will reveal just how battle-ready both teams are as they step into conference play. Will Alabama defend its home court and continue its SEC success? Or will Oklahoma prove they belong among the top teams in the country? Stay tuned!