Mark Sears recognizes Alabama’s rich football history and had a thoughtful response when asked about the growing success of the school’s basketball program compared to its football dominance.
With Alabama basketball preparing for its Elite Eight matchup, Sears was asked if he believed the program had reached the same level as Alabama football. The Crimson Tide basketball team has now reached three consecutive Sweet 16 appearances and is competing for back-to-back Final Four trips, following its first-ever Final Four appearance last season.
Sears, however, dismissed the idea of making a direct comparison between the two programs. Instead of calling Alabama solely a football school, he described it as a “championship school” across all sports. Still, he acknowledged the challenge of matching the football team’s accomplishments, given its 18 national titles.
“I wouldn’t say there’s a comparison,” Sears said. “We’re a championship school. Football has 18 national championships, and we’re still working toward our first. So it’s not the same.”
His teammate, Labaron Philon, echoed those sentiments, recognizing the football program’s long-established success while also praising the direction of the basketball team. Philon noted that while Alabama football has built a strong foundation over the years, head coach Nate Oats is steadily elevating the basketball program.
“Our side of things is definitely making strides,” Philon said. “But as Mark said, football has already built a great foundation. Coach Oats, though, is getting there. By the time it’s all said and done, he’s going to be one of the greatest.”
Despite Alabama’s recent success, the team is not currently viewed as a top contender for the national championship, according to the latest betting odds. ESPN Bet lists Alabama at +1200 to win the title, with Duke (+170) and Florida (+275) seen as the frontrunners.
Alabama will have the opportunity to challenge expectations in its upcoming Elite Eight matchup against Duke. The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:49 p.m. ET on TBS and truTV.