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Florida lost to No.23 Alabama Thursday night in the O’Dome. After a physical battle, the Crimson Tide prevailed thanks to Aaliyah Nye’s 3-point expertise. 

Alabama wasted no time before enforcing a full-court press. The pressure led to a few turnovers for Florida, as the Crimson Tide went on a 6-0 run. 

However, the Gators responded with defensive stops and quick rebounds. Florida pushed the pace with several fast break layups, keeping the game close.

Essence Cody was a presence down low for the Crimson Tide and scored ten first-quarter points, shooting perfectly from the field.

The score was tied at 17 after one.

Both teams slowed down offensively throughout the second. Florida only shot 17% from the field but held Alabama to limited shot attempts. 

The physicality throughout the first half took a toll on each team, keeping the game low-scoring. 

The Crimson Tide led at halftime, 32-27.

Nye caught fire from deep to start the second half, sinking three triples in the first five minutes. 

Laila Reynolds responded with crafty playmaking leading a 7-0 run for Florida.

Florida Head Coach Kelly Rae Finley is impressed with the improvements Reynolds has made since the new year began.

“The amount of improvement she’s had in eight weeks is unmatched. She’s relentless in her work ethic, and she’s earned the opportunity to go out there and play that way,” said Finley. “It’s what we expect from her every night.”

Another Gator that led the way tonight for Florida was Liv McGill. McGill recorded her tenth 20-point game this season, scoring 22.

The freshman has learned a lot from conference play and is hungry for more wins.

“You have to compete every night. It doesn’t matter what their ranking is or what their record is,” said McGill. “It’s the SEC and everybody is trying to get a win. You can never come into the game slacking, no matter who the opponent is.”

Alabama led after three, 56-50.

The Crimson Tide shot nearly 80% from the field in the fourth quarter, keeping the Gators at bay. Alabama orchestrated a 10-0 run, giving them a fifteen-point lead.

Nye didn’t slow down late in the game, draining more daggers from long-range. She made 9-of-12 3-pointers all night, scoring 27.

“I kept getting my shots up, staying consistent and found ways for my teammates to get me the ball,” said Nye.

Florida didn’t hit a field goal in the final 2:39, resulting in Alabama’s second victory over the Gators this season, 84-66.

Florida heads to Columbia for its next matchup against No.2 South Carolina on February 13. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. and can be viewed on SECN.