Alabama players explain how they block outside noise as Crimson Tide rise in rankings

Alabama continues to rise in the rankings, and that likely isn’t changing anytime soon. The Crimson Tide began the week ranked at No. 4 in the AP Top 25, and defeated Arkansas on the road on Wednesday. Then, on Saturday, Alabama completely dominated in a 106-66 victory against LSU.

After the win, Alabama players had a similar take on how to handle the outside noise and expectations that come with being so highly-ranked. For Brandon Miller, Noah Clowney and Rylan Griffen, the approach doesn’t change much if at all.

“We just stay connected on and off the court,” Miller said. “We preach the bond with us on and off the court, which just makes it better on the court. So that’s the biggest thing with us.”

Miller was lights out against LSU on Saturday, shooting 11-for-16 from the field and 7-for-11 from three-point range. He totaled 31 points, also adding nine rebounds and an assist in 24 minutes.

Alabama isn’t letting their spot in the rankings change their approach

While Alabama is undoubtedly off to a great start with a 15-2 overall record that includes a perfect 5-0 mark against SEC opponents, the season is far from over. As conference play continues on and the postseason inches closer, games are only going to get tougher. That appears to be a well-known sentiment for both Clowney and Griffen.

“You’ve got to play every team like they are capable,” Clowney added. “Don’t take anybody light, don’t underestimate anybody. You’ve got to go out and play how we’re supposed to play every time.”

Clowney played 21 minutes against LSU, scoring four points and adding eight rebounds and one block.

“I would say just stay focused,” Griffen said. “SEC play now, so every team [is] playing hungry. But we’ve got to be included in those teams that play hungry. So no matter what we’ve done, the next team we play, all that stuff is out the window and we’ve got to come out ready.”

Griffen was one of five Alabama players to score in double figures on Saturday, contributing 12 points on 4-for-12 shooting. He also added six rebounds, one assist and one steal.

Alabama’s approach will need to be strong over the next couple of weeks, as the Crimson Tide are set to face a road-heavy schedule. They hit the road for matchups against Vanderbilt and Missouri this week, and four of their upcoming six games will be away from home.