Bradon Miller reflects on 'hard-fought' win over Memphis

Alabama is not afraid to play big named teams during the nonconference portion of the schedule. After defeating Houston on Saturday, an 8-1 Memphis squad rolled into Tuscaloosa looking for a fourth win vs. SEC opponents. Brandon Miller and the Crimson Tide had other ideas, holding on for a 91-88 win at Coleman Coliseum.

As the game clock was winding down, Miller cut his hand, with blood coming out. Having to be tended to by team trainers, Miller said it symbolized what was a “hard-fought” game between Alabama and Memphis. The true freshman was able to play through and help secure another crucial victory.

“I think just a hard-fought game by both teams,” Miller said speaking to ESPN commentators Tom Hart and Fran Fraschilla after the game. “There’s going to be some bumps and bruises. Things really happen in basketball so you just got to find a way to play through it.”

Miller dropped 24 points on Tuesday, with the majority done in the second half. He has consistently proven to be one of the top-scoring freshmen in the country, even after Houston limited him to eight points.

Alabama has developed a solid culture this season under head coach Nate Oats, where Miller credits his play to the energy surrounding him.

“My team pushed me to be the guy I am today,” Miller said. “I just fall back on my team and bring a lot of the energy that they bring back to me.”

Brandon Miller speaks to depth Alabama possesses

Three other Alabama starters finished in double figures, while four bench players provided 22 points. Nearly everybody has the green light from Oats, especially when behind the three-point line.

Having this kind of depth means somebody different can do it on any given night. On Saturday, Noah Clowney stepped up with a double-double. Miller was the guy against Memphis but feels confident when he is down, his teammates will pick the Crimson Tide up.

“I feel like anybody on our team can have the ball,” Miller said. “It can come from every guy on the team. When we get a chance to step up and make big plays, I think everybody on the team can step up and make a big play.”

Somebody will have to step up again this upcoming Saturday, as the tough schedule does not stop for Alabama. Gonzaga in a “neutral site” matchup is on the schedule, although Birmingham is the site.

Miller will be hoping to replicate his second-half performance from Tuesday for a full 90 minutes against the Zags and continue to prove why Alabama is one of the best teams in the country.