The Oakland University men’s basketball team opened its 2011-12 season Monday night facing a tall task in the form of nationally-ranked Alabama on the road.

Despite keeping pace for much of the first half, the Golden Grizzlies eventually fell 74-57.

Oakland opened with a 10-8 lead within the first five minutes but Alabama’s returning forwards JaMychal Green and Tony Mitchell took control, scoring 12 and 18 points respectfully and a combined 14 rebounds.

Against an Alabama team that was seventh in Division 1 in defensive efficiency last season, Reggie Hamilton led the Golden Grizzlies in scoring with 16 points, all in the first half. Drew Valentine added 11 points and six rebounds.

In his Oakland debut, senior Laval Lucas-Perry scored ten points off the bench.

Redshirt freshman Corey Petros, making his first regular season appearance, contributed seven rebounds against a veteran Alabama frontcourt.

The Crimson Tide held Oakland to 40 percent shooting, only allowing 4-18 baskets from behind the three-point line.

For the first time in his collegiate career, sophomore Travis Bader fouled out with 8:49 remaining in the second half, finishing with nine points and four rebounds.

Oakland is now 1-4 all-time against teams from the SEC.

The Golden Grizzlies second road game of the season will be on Wednesday, Nov. 16 against Arkansas.