Alabama Women’s Basketball Keeps on Rolling: A Season of Success and Growth

The Alabama Women’s Basketball team has been making waves in the college basketball scene, showcasing tremendous growth, skill, and determination. Under the guidance of head coach Kristy Curry, the Crimson Tide has developed into one of the most formidable teams in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond. The 2024-2025 season is no different, as the team continues to roll through opponents, setting high expectations and impressing fans, analysts, and rival teams alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at the success of Alabama Women’s Basketball, how the team has evolved, its key players, and what the future holds for the program.

A Storied Program: From Humble Beginnings to National Contention

Alabama Women’s Basketball has a rich history, though it is one that has evolved over time. The program, which began in the early 1970s, has seen ups and downs, from its early days of struggles in the SEC to becoming a consistent contender for NCAA tournament berths. Despite this, the program’s growth over the last decade has been nothing short of impressive.

Under coach Kristy Curry, who took over the team in 2013, the Alabama women’s team has gradually transformed from a middle-of-the-pack SEC team to one that regularly competes with the conference’s elite. Curry’s leadership has focused on instilling discipline, a strong work ethic, and an emphasis on both offensive and defensive excellence.

In recent years, the program has developed a reputation for its tenacious defense, fast-paced offense, and the ability to outwork opponents. This approach has helped Alabama secure several significant wins, climb up the national rankings, and reach new heights in the NCAA tournament.

The 2024-2025 Season: A Continuation of Excellence

The 2024-2025 season marks another high point for Alabama Women’s Basketball. As of January 2025, the team has continued to roll through its schedule with impressive victories over ranked teams and commanding performances in SEC play. The team’s relentless pursuit of excellence has kept them in the upper echelons of the SEC standings and has raised expectations for a deep NCAA tournament run.

The Crimson Tide’s success can be attributed to several factors, including strong leadership from Curry, an exceptional group of athletes, and a well-rounded coaching staff that excels at both player development and strategy. The team has shown significant improvement in several areas of the game, including ball movement, shooting efficiency, and overall defensive pressure.

Key Players Driving Alabama’s Success

Alabama Women’s Basketball’s success this season is driven by a mix of seasoned veterans and dynamic newcomers who have quickly adjusted to the team’s competitive level. Here are some of the standout players who have helped Alabama continue to roll:

1. Jazmine Massengill – The Senior Leader

One of the most vital players on the roster is Jazmine Massengill, a senior point guard who has become the team’s floor general. Massengill’s leadership, experience, and basketball IQ have been crucial in Alabama’s offensive execution and overall poise on the court. Known for her ability to create scoring opportunities both for herself and her teammates, Massengill has been a steady presence in high-pressure moments, guiding the team through challenging SEC matchups.

Her skill set extends beyond offense; Massengill’s defense and ability to disrupt opposing offenses have been a huge asset for Alabama, which prides itself on playing a physical, aggressive style of basketball. Her leadership has been invaluable in maintaining team cohesion and ensuring that the team stays focused on their long-term goals.

2. Meghan O’Leary – The Scorer

One of the most dangerous offensive weapons for Alabama is sophomore forward Meghan O’Leary. O’Leary has emerged as one of the most prolific scorers in the SEC, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. Whether it’s a smooth mid-range jumper, a three-pointer, or a powerful drive to the basket, O’Leary has the versatility to keep opposing defenses on their toes.

Her combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes her a matchup nightmare for opponents. Her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting and also finish inside has been pivotal to Alabama’s offensive success this season. O’Leary’s breakout season has made her a key player to watch, and she has already established herself as a future star of the program.

3. Riley Norris – Defensive Anchor

Riley Norris, a junior forward, has been a standout defensive presence for Alabama. Her ability to guard multiple positions, block shots, and grab key rebounds has made her a central figure on the defensive end of the floor. Known for her gritty style of play, Norris brings a level of toughness that has become a hallmark of the Alabama program.

Her defensive prowess has helped Alabama limit opponents’ scoring runs and disrupt their offensive flow. Additionally, Norris’s leadership on the boards has been a major factor in the team’s ability to control tempo and second-chance opportunities. As one of the team’s primary defenders, Norris continues to play a critical role in the Crimson Tide’s success.

4. Olivia McPherson – A Freshman Phenomenon

Freshman Olivia McPherson has made an immediate impact on the team, quickly earning significant minutes and becoming a key contributor. McPherson’s poise and maturity have belied her age, as she has seamlessly integrated into Alabama’s fast-paced style of play. Her shooting, passing, and basketball IQ have set her apart as one of the most promising young talents in the SEC.

Her ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense has been a game-changer for Alabama. As she continues to develop, McPherson has the potential to become one of the program’s future stars and a focal point of Alabama’s success for years to come.

The Coaching Staff: A Pillar of Consistency and Excellence

Kristy Curry’s coaching staff has played a pivotal role in the team’s continued success. With years of experience coaching at the NCAA Division I level, Curry and her staff have built a culture of excellence, discipline, and hard work. Her emphasis on player development and creating a family-like atmosphere within the team has paid off, as the players buy into her vision and trust her leadership.

Curry’s ability to adapt her coaching strategies to match the strengths and weaknesses of her players has been another key to the team’s success. Whether it’s adjusting the game plan for specific opponents or emphasizing particular aspects of the game like shooting, defense, or transition play, Curry’s tactical awareness and ability to motivate her players have been essential to the team’s consistency.

The SEC: A Competitive Landscape

Playing in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in women’s basketball, has provided Alabama with the opportunity to face some of the best teams in the country. The SEC features perennial powerhouses like South Carolina, LSU, and Tennessee, and each season, the Crimson Tide must battle these programs for supremacy in the conference standings.

Despite the stiff competition, Alabama has shown it can compete with the best. The team’s ability to stay focused and execute in high-pressure situations has allowed it to achieve impressive wins over ranked SEC opponents. These victories not only enhance the team’s resume but also help build confidence as the Crimson Tide look ahead to the NCAA tournament.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Alabama Women’s Basketball

As the 2024-2025 season unfolds, Alabama Women’s Basketball is in an excellent position to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With a talented roster, strong leadership, and a committed coaching staff, the team has the tools to compete at the highest level of women’s college basketball.

In the coming years, Alabama’s program looks poised to continue its rise. The combination of experienced players like Massengill and Norris, along with the influx of talented freshmen like McPherson, gives the program a bright future. If the team continues to build on its current success and further develops its players, Alabama could become a perennial contender for NCAA championships in the near future.