Alabama narrowly escapes upset against Robert Morris in March Madness

In the first round of the NCAA Tournament, held on March 21, 2025, the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide faced off against the No. 15 Robert Morris team in Cleveland. Alabama was expected to win but its opponent put up a fierce battle, leading the game at one point in the second half. The game was tightly contested throughout, with Alabama holding a slim lead at halftime, at 40-36. With under 13 minutes remaining, Alabama extended its lead to 56-46, only to see Robert Morris surge back with a 19-8 run, taking a 65-64 advantage over Alabama with just over seven minutes left. However, the Crimson Tide responded quickly with an 11-2 stretch, retaking control and ultimately securing the win with a final score of 90-81. The game witnessed standout performances from several players. Alabama's Mark Sears played a crucial role, scoring 19 of his 22 points during the second half, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure. Alongside him, Mouhamed Dioubate contributed significantly off the bench, tallying 18 points and 10 rebounds. Robert Morris was led by guard Amarion Dickerson, who was a formidable presence on the court, scoring 25 points despite a struggle from three-point range. Dickerson's foul trouble late in the game, with just over a minute remaining, limited his ability to help his team during crucial moments. Although Robert Morris fought valiantly, their efforts fell short, as they were unable to maintain their lead against the experienced Alabama squad. The victory allowed the Crimson Tide to advance in the tournament, where they are set to face the winner of the matchup between St. Mary’s and Vanderbilt in the upcoming round. This win reflects Alabama’s resilience and experience, having previously made deep runs in NCAA tournaments. Notably, this game marked the Crimson Tide's 19th instance this season of scoring at least 90 points in a game, highlighting their offensive capabilities as the nation’s highest-scoring team. The experience of Alabama's players, including senior stars and a strong supporting cast, seems to serve them well as they continue in the tournament, looking to capture a spot in the Sweet 16 for the fourth time in five years. This matchup was significant not just for the victory but also for showcasing the potential of Robert Morris. Coach Andy Toole expressed pride in his team’s performance, noting their improvement over the season. The presence of players like Dickerson, capable of making impactful plays, indicates the strength of Robert Morris as a competitive team. As they regroup, this game is a stepping stone for them as they look towards the future in the Horizon League. Meanwhile, Alabama's progression in the tournament solidifies their status as a formidable contender, driven by the dynamics of their squad and the pressure of the tournament atmosphere.