Alabama basketball fans were left scratching their heads when senior center Noah Williamson, a highly anticipated Bucknell transfer, was noticeably absent from the Crimson Tide's 109-105 exhibition win over Florida State. But here's where it gets intriguing: despite the victory, the team's struggles around the rim and on the boards were hard to ignore, leaving many to wonder just how much of an impact Williamson could have made. And this is the part most people miss—his absence wasn't just a minor detail; it was a glaring hole in Alabama's frontcourt strategy.
The game, held at Boutwell Auditorium, showcased Alabama's offensive firepower but also exposed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the paint. Williamson, who didn't even dress for the game, was expected to be a key piece in shoring up these weaknesses. His experience and size could have been a game-changer, especially against a physical team like Florida State. But here's the controversial part: Is Alabama risking too much by not having a proven big man like Williamson ready for the season opener? Or is this just a minor setback in a long season?**
For now, fans are left with more questions than answers. When will Williamson make his debut? How will his presence reshape the team's dynamics? And most importantly, can Alabama afford to wait? These are the burning questions that have the Crimson Tide community buzzing. What do you think? Is Williamson's absence a cause for concern, or is it too early to hit the panic button? Let us know in the comments!