Alabama State Makes History in NCAA Tournament

In a nail-biting game, Alabama State basketball achieved a milestone by securing their first-ever NCAA Tournament victory, overcoming Saint Francis 70-68 on Tuesday night in Dayton. The win marks a significant turnaround for the program, which had previously faced challenges in the tournament.

The Hornets’ journey to victory was highlighted by a dramatic finish. With the game tied and just seconds remaining, Amarr Knox caught a full-court pass and delivered the game-winning layup as time expired. Knox led the team with 16 points, showcasing his crucial role in the win.

Game Highlights: A Tale of Two Halves

Alabama State struggled in the first half, trailing Saint Francis 39-34 at halftime after a tough start that saw them shooting only 29% in the first four minutes. However, they rallied in the second half, using a 6-0 run to take the lead with just over four minutes left in the game.

Throughout the game, Alabama State showed resilience. Despite being behind and facing a halftime deficit, they fought back to take control late in the game. TJ Madlock, another key player for the Hornets, contributed significantly, scoring 11 points along with his pivotal rebounding.

Coaching Impact

Head coach Tony Madlock, whose experience and leadership have been instrumental for the team, expressed his pride post-game, saying, ‘Memphis, stand up, baby!’ His guidance has clearly contributed positively to the players’ performance and morale.

Looking Ahead

Next, Alabama State will face the number one overall seed, Auburn, in the next round of the NCAA Tournament. This matchup presents another daunting challenge, but the Hornets are eager to prove themselves on this national stage.

Conclusion

Alabama State’s historic victory over Saint Francis not only reflects their determination and teamwork but also sets the stage for an exciting continuation of their NCAA Tournament journey. As they prepare for their upcoming game against Auburn, fans will be watching closely to see how the Hornets build on this monumental win.