After Mark Sears was benched for the second half of Alabama basketball’s Saturday win over LSU, his mother spoke out in his defense. Lemeka Sears posted on Facebook on Sunday, clearly disagreeing with Nate Oats’ choice.

“He was getting assists and making defensive plays,” she wrote in one comment. “He didn’t have the chance to perform.”

On Monday, the elder Sears posted again, clarifying her stance on the matter.

“As a Mother, while I may not agree with the decision, I recognize and respect Coach Oats and the entire Alabama’s coaching staff,” Lameka Sears wrote. “I did not agree with the choice to keep Mark on the bench for the entire second half, but I fully understand that in sports, especially at this level, these moments happen and we all learn and grow from them.”

Mark Sears went 0-for-5 from the field during the first half of Saturday’s game. He had three rebounds and three assists.

After the game, Oats made clear that the Muscle Shoals native’s absence was not health-related.

“We went with the guys in the second half (who) we thought gave us the best chance to win this game,” Oats said. “And we won the game and our defense was significantly better than the first half. And we haven’t done that very often this year, so that’s all I’m going to say about that stuff.”

The point guard was spotted on the bench during the second half, at one point having what appeared to be an emotional conversation with assistant coach Preston Murphy. His mother addressed that as well in her Monday post.

“I want to clarify that Mark’s emotion on the bench was a reflection of his passion and commitment to his teammates,” Lameka Sears wrote. “We’re proud of how he continues to handle these moments with maturity and focus.”

She thanked her son’s supporters and let Alabama fans know the Crimson Tide will continue to try for a national championship. Lameka Sears also made clear that she will continue to always be on her son’s side in the future.

“I am his Mother and he will always be my Son, period,” she wrote. “Even when the ball stops bouncing.”

Alabama will be back in action Wednesday at Mississippi State. The game is scheduled to tip off at 8 p.m. CT and will be aired on the SEC Network.