Nate Oats Discusses What Makes BYU Difficult to Defend

For the fourth time in five years, Alabama head coach Nate Oats has guided his team to the Sweet 16, with a strong chance of reaching the Final Four for the second consecutive season. On Thursday night, Alabama will face No. 6 seed BYU, with a spot in the Elite Eight on the line.

After competing against a St. Mary’s team in the Round of 32 that plays with one of the slowest paces in the country, the Crimson Tide will now take on a Cougars team that plays much more similarly to what Oats is accustomed to.

“I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s refreshing to play against a team like us, because I think we’re really difficult to defend,” Oats said. “We’ve led the nation in scoring the past two years. I don’t think anyone finds it refreshing to play against Alabama, no matter who’s coaching the opposing defense.”

Oats also discussed the physicality that will be on display while praising BYU’s dynamic offense.

“Maybe it’s not as much of a Smash Mouth game, like playing football, like some teams,” Oats noted. “But they’re not easy to guard. Coach Kevin Young has them running excellent sets. They’ve got shooters everywhere…So we’ll need to be locked in, and our coaches need to do a great job preparing our guys, who will need to execute the game plan and adjust as needed, because I’m sure he’ll make changes.”

Oats is eager for the challenge and the opportunity.

“I’m looking forward to the Sweet 16,” Oats said. “This is the first time in school history we’ve reached three straight Sweet Sixteens. But I wouldn’t use the word ‘refreshing’ to describe playing against an offense like BYU’s. It’s probably not the right term.”