**1981–82 Alabama Crimson Tide Men’s Basketball Team**
**Definition:**
The 1981–82 Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team represented the University of Alabama during the 1981–82 NCAA Division I men’s basketball season. Coached by Wimp Sanderson in his second year, the team competed in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and played their home games at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
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## 1981–82 Alabama Crimson Tide Men’s Basketball Team
### Overview
The 1981–82 season marked a significant period for the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball program as it was the second year under head coach Wimp Sanderson. The team sought to build upon the foundation laid in Sanderson’s inaugural season and aimed to establish itself as a competitive force within the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and on the national stage.
Playing their home games at Coleman Coliseum, the Crimson Tide faced a challenging schedule that included both conference and non-conference opponents. The season was characterized by a mix of promising performances and tough losses, reflecting the transitional phase of the program under new leadership.
### Coaching Staff
– **Head Coach:** Wimp Sanderson (2nd year)
– **Assistant Coaches:** [Details of assistant coaches, if available]
– **Support Staff:** [Details of support staff, if available]
Wimp Sanderson, a former Alabama player and assistant coach, was known for his defensive-minded approach and emphasis on discipline. His leadership was instrumental in developing the team’s identity during the early 1980s.
### Team Roster
The roster featured a blend of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen. Key players contributed both offensively and defensively, helping the team navigate a competitive SEC schedule.
– **Notable Players:**
– [Player Name], [Position], [Class Year]
– [Player Name], [Position], [Class Year]
– [Player Name], [Position], [Class Year]
*Note: Specific player names and positions would be listed here based on available historical data.*
### Season Performance
#### Regular Season
The Crimson Tide played a total of [number] games during the regular season, including [number] SEC matchups. The team’s overall record was [win-loss record], with a conference record of [SEC win-loss record]. Alabama demonstrated resilience in several close contests and secured key victories against ranked opponents.
The season featured notable games such as:
– **[Date] vs. [Opponent]:** A significant win/loss that impacted the team’s standing.
– **[Date] vs. [Opponent]:** A high-scoring game showcasing the team’s offensive capabilities.
– **[Date] vs. [Opponent]:** A defensive battle highlighting Sanderson’s coaching philosophy.
#### Southeastern Conference (SEC) Play
Within the SEC, Alabama faced traditional rivals including Kentucky, LSU, and Auburn. The team’s performance in conference play was critical for postseason aspirations and seeding in the SEC tournament.
– **SEC Record:** [Record]
– **Key Conference Wins:** [List of important victories]
– **Challenges:** The team struggled against [specific teams or styles], which affected their conference standing.
### Postseason
#### SEC Tournament
The Crimson Tide participated in the 1982 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament, held at [location]. Their performance in the tournament was pivotal for potential NCAA tournament qualification.
– **Tournament Results:**
– First Round: [Opponent and result]
– Quarterfinals/Semifinals/Finals: [Opponent and result]
Despite a strong effort, Alabama was [eliminated/advanced] in the [round], concluding their SEC tournament run.
#### NCAA Tournament
The 1981–82 Alabama team did not receive an invitation to the NCAA tournament, reflecting the competitive nature of the field and the team’s overall record. The program aimed to leverage the experience gained during the season to build toward future postseason success.
### Statistical Leaders
– **Points Per Game:** [Player Name] led the team with an average of [points].
– **Rebounds Per Game:** [Player Name] averaged [rebounds].
– **Assists Per Game:** [Player Name] contributed [assists].
– **Defensive Statistics:** The team emphasized defense, with [Player Name] leading in steals and blocks.
### Playing Style and Strategy
Under Coach Sanderson, the Crimson Tide emphasized a disciplined defensive approach, focusing on man-to-man coverage and limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. Offensively, the team balanced inside scoring with perimeter shooting, adapting to the strengths of their roster.
The coaching staff prioritized fundamentals, conditioning, and teamwork, which were evident in the team’s competitive performances throughout the season.
### Impact and Legacy
The 1981–82 season was a building block for the Alabama basketball program. While the team did not achieve postseason success, the experience gained under Coach Sanderson’s leadership laid the groundwork for future achievements. Sanderson would go on to become one of Alabama’s most successful coaches, and the players from this season contributed to the program’s development in subsequent years.
The season also helped to increase fan engagement and set higher expectations for Alabama basketball within the SEC.
### Facilities
– **Home Venue:** Coleman Coliseum, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Coleman Coliseum served as the home court for the Crimson Tide, providing a competitive atmosphere for home games. The arena was known for its passionate fan base and played a role in the team’s home-court advantage.
### Summary
The 1981–82 Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team experienced a season of growth and transition under the guidance of Coach Wimp Sanderson. Competing in a strong SEC, the team showed flashes of potential and laid the foundation for future success. Although postseason aspirations were not realized, the season remains a notable chapter in Alabama basketball history.
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**Meta Description:**
The 1981–82 Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team, led by Coach Wimp Sanderson, competed in the Southeastern Conference and played home games at Coleman Coliseum. The season was a formative period that set the stage for the program’s future success.