In an exhilarating first-round matchup, No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide came from behind to secure a 109-96 win against No. 13 Charleston in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 22, 2024. The key turning point of the game came when freshman forward Mouhamed Dioubate stepped onto the court, injecting the team with a much-needed burst of energy.

Trailing by five points, Alabama's bench was getting heated as players struggled with missed assignments, and frustration began to grow. Sensing the urgency, head coach Nate Oats made a bold decision to bring in Dioubate, along with fellow starter Mo Wague, and a sparsely used player.

Dioubate wasted no time making an impact. On his first play, he forced a steal but unfortunately threw a pass to a Charleston player, resulting in a turnover exchange and putting Alabama in a six-point hole. However, Dioubate remained undeterred. Displaying relentless hustle, he drew a foul and made crucial defensive plays, tipping one pass out of bounds and stealing the inbound for a dunk.

It was this series of plays that changed the momentum of the game, as Alabama went on a 7-0 run to take the lead, which they would ultimately not relinquish. Coach Oats credited Dioubate and Wague for turning things around, stating, "Our rebounding and defense picked up when Mo Dioubate and Mo Wague came in and really got the energy turned the right way."

Dioubate's selfless attitude and commitment to the team's success were evident in his postgame comments. He expressed his desire to play hard and ignite his teammates, stating, "I try to play as hard as I can to get the other guys going... My minutes, everything, I got to work for it. I never know when I'm gonna get in a game, so I stay ready."

Dioubate's impact extended beyond his individual performance. He combined with Wague to give Alabama a plus-27 differential in the decisive first half. Despite being a freshman with limited playing time, Dioubate contributed six points, four rebounds, two steals, and an assist.

The depth of Alabama's bench proved crucial in the victory, as they outscored Charleston's bench 37-31. Jarin Stevenson made timely three-pointers, contributing to the impressive scoring output. The bench's performance marked their highest-scoring night since their game against Mississippi State on February 3.

As Alabama advances to the Round of 32, the team's depth will face another test in their upcoming game against 12-seed Grand Canyon. With a quick turnaround, the Crimson Tide will have to rely on their strong bench to continue their tournament run.

The unity and camaraderie within the team have been key factors in their success. Coach Oats emphasized this, stating, "These guys have grown together and really come to love each other... They want to keep playing together."

In the midst of Alabama's star players, Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and Mark Sears, combining for an impressive 47 points, Dioubate showcased his abilities and demonstrated why he can be a game-changer for the Crimson Tide. Furthermore, players like Sam Walters, Mo Wague, and Nick Pringle also stepped up and made crucial contributions to secure the victory.

As the NCAA Tournament continues, Alabama's depth and tenacity will be put to the test. With Mouhamed Dioubate leading the charge, the Crimson Tide will undoubtedly look to build on their momentum and make a deep tournament run.