Clock malfunctions cause 20-minute delay in Alabama-Georgia

Pace was expected Tuesday night in Athens. Alabama and Georgia are two of the quickest-moving teams in college basketball, looking to score points in a hurry. Not much should be able to slow them down, especially opposing defenses. But their match was found late in the second half.

Clock malfunctions popped up inside Stegman Coliseum just after the under-eight media timeout. A delay took place, with both teams waiting on the sideline. And despite getting play going again, another issue popped up. This occurred multiple times, turning the game into a stop-start affair.

In total, around 20 minutes of delay took place before getting back into the rhythm of the game. Some unusual tactics will be used down the stretch too. Since the clock is shut off, the PA announcer will notify teams of where the shot clock stands. His first notice will come with 15 seconds remaining, followed by 10, before saying “five” and counting down from there.

This has already been a weird game. Alabama only sent four players onto the court in the closing moments of the first half, almost forcing a turnover. Head coach Nate Oats did not even notice, getting bailed out by a Georgia timeout. Five were sent back out there for what turned into the final possession of the first 20 minutes, resulting in a three-pointer for Georgia.

Maybe the clock issue can be 100% resolved during the under-four media timeout. But until then, a non-traditional shot clock will be communicated to the two teams.

Winning streak on the line for Alabama in Athens

If the season were to end today, Alabama would be the two-seed in the SEC Tournament. This is thanks to an eight-game winning streak dating back to early February. Just one loss during the month took place, getting destroyed by Florida. But since then, it’s been perfection.

Georgia wants to make sure the streak is snapped. White’s bunch started out the year quite strong but has been inconsistent during SEC play. Currently sitting at 8-8, beating Alabama would do wonders for UGA. It would certainly help improve the NCAA Tournament resume, possibly pushing the Bulldogs into safety.

An interesting second half should be on the way from Athens. These two teams both know how to score points and score fast. A track meet already broke out in the first 40. We might be in for something similar out of the locker room, just with Alabama wanting to play a little more defense.