In an exhilarating showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the No. 7 Alabama Crimson Tide clinched a nail-biting 93-91 overtime victory against the top-ranked Auburn Tigers. The heart-stopping conclusion came at the Neville Arena in Auburn, Alabama, on March 8, 2025, when Mark Sears made a sensational floater at the buzzer to seal the win. This victory not only marks a significant moment for Alabama but also ends their recent two-game losing streak while extending Auburn’s struggles to two consecutive losses.
A Dramatic Performance
Mark Sears, the hero of the night, managed to score just nine points throughout the game, but his incredible last-second shot will be remembered by fans for years to come. It was his only basket in the second half and indeed his third of the entire game. He became the first player to hit a game-winning buzzer-beater against an Associated Press No. 1 team since 2021. After the game, Alabama’s head coach Nate Oats praised Sears for his remarkable performance, acknowledging the pressure he faced in that moment.
Key Players Make an Impact
While Sears stole the spotlight, he wasn’t the only player helping Alabama push through in this critical match. Grant Nelson led the Crimson Tide in scoring with a formidable 23 points and contributed with eight rebounds. Labaron Philon and Clifford Omoruyi also stood out with 15 points each, showcasing Alabama’s balanced offensive attack. In contrast, Auburn’s Johni Broome pulled off an extraordinary 34-point performance, which, despite being impressive, wasn’t enough to secure the victory for his team.
Game Overview
This thrilling game was not just another match; it was part of the intense rivalry between these two Alabama teams. They both entered the game after facing recent defeats, making the stakes even higher for both sides. Auburn, despite the loss, is still in a strong position for NCAA tournament seeding, while this win marked a pivotal moment for Alabama, significantly boosting their chances as they geared up for the upcoming SEC tournament.
Statistics from the Night
| Team | Points | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 93 | 41 |
| Auburn | 91 | 33 |
Throughout the game, Alabama was efficient in their shooting, hitting about 52% of their shots in the first half. Meanwhile, Auburn struggled slightly with 47%. The game was also marked by Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazara getting ejected for a flagrant foul, a pivotal moment that shifted some momentum back to Alabama.
Looking Ahead
As the SEC tournament approaches, both teams continue to strategize, but Alabama’s victory over the top-ranked team sends a powerful message about their competitive spirit and readiness. While this match showcased their resilience, Alabama players still face challenges with injuries as they head into the tournament. Fans are filled with excitement for what comes next, especially with this unforgettable match fresh in their minds.
Conclusion: A Rivalry Renewed
This memorable night once again reinforced the deeply rooted rivalry between Alabama and Auburn, reminding everyone of the thrilling nature of college basketball, where every game has the potential for unbelievable drama. With both teams looking ahead to the SEC tournament, fans can anticipate more close matches filled with tension, skill, and the joy of competition.
