bigmacx

Two years ago today the historic march to its first Final Four for @AlabamaMBB almost hit a potential roadblock in Spokane on March 24, 2024, but instead became a defining moment of perseverance. Facing No. 12-seeded Grand Canyon in the Round of 32, the Crimson Tide found itself in a fight. Despite building a double-digit lead in the second half, Alabama watched it slip away as the Lopes surged ahead with just over six minutes remaining, threatening to end the Crimson Tide’s season much earlier than expected. That’s when Alabama responded like a team destined for more. From that point forward, the Crimson Tide slammed the door shut with a dominant 17-3 run, including 10 unanswered points to seize control and secure a 72-61 victory. The fight revealed the toughness and composure of a group that would make program history just weeks later. Mark Sears recorded his first double-double with 26 points and 12 rebounds while adding six assists and three steals. @GriffenRylan chipped in 13 first-half points, while @AEforthree had eight points, 10 rebounds, six assists and four steals in a gritty, all-around effort. After the game, @nate_oats called it a “character win,” praising his team’s ability to push through adversity, foul trouble and frustration. Alabama advanced to its 10th Sweet 16 in program history and third in four years, and more importantly, proved it had the mental toughness to survive and advance. Instead of a Grand Canyon sized roadblock, the second-half rally became a launchpad for the Crimson Tide’s unforgettable run to the 2024 Final Four.