Alabama’s Cinderella run to the Final Four continued with a thrilling 89-82 victory over Clemson in the NCAA Tournament’s West Region final. The Crimson Tide, led by sharpshooter Mark Sears and freshman sensation Jarin Stevenson, overcame an early deficit with a barrage of 3-pointers that left the Tigers reeling.
Sears, a native of Alabama, put on a show with seven 3-pointers and 23 points, earning him the Most Outstanding Player of the West Region. Stevenson, who started slow but caught fire in the second half, added 19 points off the bench, hitting a career-high five 3s.
The Tide’s relentless shooting from beyond the arc overwhelmed Clemson, who struggled to keep pace despite a valiant effort from Joseph Girard III and Ian Schieffelin. Alabama’s 16 3-pointers, including 10 in the second half, proved to be the difference in the game.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Tide celebrated their historic victory, punching their ticket to the Final Four for the first time in school history. Coach Nate Oats and his players donned “Net Worthy” t-shirts, symbolizing their journey to the pinnacle of college basketball.
With the win, Alabama sets up a showdown with defending champion UConn in the Final Four, promising an epic clash between two powerhouse programs. The Tide’s remarkable run has captivated fans and inspired a new generation of basketball stars, proving that anything is possible in the madness of March.