In Newark, New Jersey, a defining NCAA tournament clash went awry for Alabama as their star guard, Mark Sears, fell short of his previous high-scoring efforts during their Sweet 16 victory. Despite a strong performance earlier in the tournament where he made 10 3-pointers, Sears struggled against Duke, scoring only six points in Alabama’s 85-65 defeat in the East Region final. This loss ended Alabama’s aspirations for a second consecutive Final Four appearance.
Alabama’s head coach, Nate Oats, reflected on the team’s disappointing performance, noting the stark contrast between their previous game and the challenging night against Duke. Sears, who ended with just two out of twelve shots made, seemed unable to find his rhythm this time on the same court where he dominated just days earlier. His solitary basket in the first half left Alabama trailing by eight points.
Duke’s defensive strategy paid off as the Blue Devils reached their 18th Final Four. Cooper Flagg led the charge, contributing to a decisive 13-0 run that ensured victory. Alabama, known for its high-scoring potential, was limited significantly, with Labaron Philon being the only player to hit three 3-pointers and total 16 points.
Sears, who averaged 19 points per game in the season, was unable to find the mark until late in the second half. Before the tournament’s Sweet 16 triumph, his shooting had been inconsistent, and his standout performance against BYU was an anomaly rather than a continuation of form. Duke’s defensive tenacity effectively neutralized Sears, forcing Alabama out of their comfort zone.
Alabama’s campaign under coach Oats had seen unprecedented heights, including a historic NCAA Tournament showing the prior year. However, the team fell short, unable to replicate their success from last year’s Final Four berth. Despite eliminating media favorites and setting records, their shooting was lackluster against Duke, going only 8-for-32 from three-point range and 35.4% overall.
In the wider context, Alabama’s defeat marked a missed opportunity for the SEC, which hoped for a stronger representation in the Final Four. The loss not only showed a gap in Alabama’s performance but also highlighted their issues on rebounds and turnovers.
Under Oats, Alabama has seen a transformation into a national powerhouse. The program’s accomplishments include multiple SEC titles and maintaining top national rankings. Oats emphasized the program’s competitive standing and future ambitions, intending to remain a Final Four contender annually.
Reflecting on the high expectations, Oats acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic about the program’s trajectory, asserting Alabama’s intent to continually strive for national success.