In a thrilling showdown at Auburn’s Neville Arena, the No. 7 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide claimed a stunning 93-91 victory over the No. 1 ranked Auburn Tigers, thanks to a spectacular buzzer-beater from Mark Sears. This intense match took place on March 8, 2025, drawing the attention of college basketball fans everywhere, as it was not just a regular season game; it was the climax of a heated rivalry.
Unforgettable Moments in Overtime
The game was tied at 91-91 with just 15 seconds left in overtime when Alabama’s Mark Sears took to the court, showcasing his sharpshooting skills. His game-winning floater at the buzzer was not only a play of sheer talent but also marked his third basket of the night, wrapping up a memorable evening with a total of nine points. This clutch shot made Sears the first player to hit a game-winning buzzer-beater against an AP No. 1 team since 2021, earning him a place in college basketball history.
Star Performers
While Sears grabbed the headlines, the game had other star performances that contributed to the nail-biting finish. Grant Nelson led the Crimson Tide with an impressive 23 points and eight rebounds, showing his versatility and strength on the court. Alabama’s Clifford Omoruyi and Labaron Philon also made significant contributions, each scoring 15 points, helping their team piece together a comeback in the face of a tough opponent.
Auburn’s Resilience
Auburn’s Johni Broome put on a dazzling performance, scoring a game-high 34 points and nearly sealing the game for the Tigers. Broome was an unstoppable force, tying the game late in overtime with a crucial layup and a mesmerizing three-pointer. However, the absence of teammate Chad Baker-Mazara, who was ejected after receiving a flagrant foul, certainly impacted Auburn’s ability to contend in those crucial final moments.
Historic Rivalry Intensified
This matchup was not just another chapter in the season; it was a significant moment in the storied Alabama-Auburn rivalry, known as the Iron Bowl of basketball. Historically, both teams have battled fiercely, and this nail-biting overtime victory adds fuel to the ongoing competition. The intensity of the matchup was heightened by the fact that both teams were ranked in the top 10, making this the first time in the history of Iron Bowl basketball that both regular-season encounters featured top-10 squads.
Future Tournaments Ahead
This victory for Alabama not only ended their two-game losing streak but also significantly bolstered their chances of earning a high seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament. With both Alabama and Auburn receiving byes in the first two rounds of the SEC tournament beginning next week in Nashville, Tennessee, fans are excited to see how both teams will perform in the next stages of their basketball journey.
Coaches’ Perspectives
After the game, Alabama’s coach Nate Oats was filled with pride for Sears’ performance, applauding his ability to stay calm under pressure. In contrast, Auburn’s coach Bruce Pearl emphasized the need for improvement in bench play, hinting at how crucial depth will be for future success. Both coaches acknowledged the incredible talent displayed by the players, setting the stage for an exciting tournament season ahead.
Key Statistics
| Player | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Johni Broome | Auburn | 34 |
| Grant Nelson | Alabama | 23 |
| Mark Sears | Alabama | 9 |
| Clifford Omoruyi | Alabama | 15 |
| Labaron Philon | Alabama | 15 |
This match not only showcased the talent of the individual players but also reflected the deep-rooted passion that makes college basketball one of the most exciting sports in America. As both teams prepare for the SEC tournament, fans around the country will be eagerly watching, knowing that high stakes and thrilling moments await.
