CLEVELAND, OH – The anticipation is building as the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide prepare to face off against the No. 10 Saint Mary's Gaels in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Rocket Arena. The tip-off is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. Eastern Time, and fans can catch the action live on TNT or stream it through various platforms such as DirecTV Stream and Sling TV.
Alabama is coming off a hard-fought victory against No. 15 Robert Morris, winning the contest 90-81. Star guard Mark Sears was instrumental in that win, scoring 22 points and dishing out 10 assists, showcasing his ability to penetrate the opposition's defense and create scoring opportunities for his teammates in the paint. However, Alabama's rebounding performance raised some eyebrows; despite having a size advantage, they were out-rebounded 39 to 37 by Robert Morris, an aspect that could pose a challenge against a team renowned for its rebounding prowess.
In contrast, Saint Mary's pulled off a thrilling comeback against Vanderbilt, winning 59-56. The Gaels, who trailed by as many as 12 points in the game, found their rhythm late thanks to guard Jordan Ross, who scored 13 pivotal second-half points. Saint Mary's also excelled on the boards, grabbing 41 rebounds compared to Vanderbilt's 29, a statistic that highlights their strength in this area as they head into their matchup against Alabama.
The clearly defined strengths of both teams set the stage for what promises to be an exciting clash. Alabama boasts an impressive season average of 91.1 points per game, making it one of the highest-scoring teams in the tournament. They have exhibited a strong offensive output, outscoring their opponents by an average of nearly 10 points per game. Furthermore, Alabama excels at hitting three-pointers, averaging 10.3 successful shots from beyond the arc per game, significantly surpassing the 5.4 three-pointers that Saint Mary’s typically allows.
In contrast, Saint Mary’s GAels focus on a formidable defensive strategy. They rank fourth in college basketball for their defensive statistics, allowing an average of just 60.5 points per game and holding opponents to a 40.8% shooting percentage. This strong defense will be put to the test against Alabama’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense.
The key players to watch for Alabama include Mark Sears, who has averaged 18.8 points and 5 assists per game this season, and Aden Holloway, noted for his shooting prowess with an average of 2.3 three-pointers made over his last ten games. Meanwhile, Saint Mary's relies on the contributions of Augustas Marciulionis, who is averaging 14.2 points and 6 assists, alongside Mitchell Saxen, who has contributed an average of 11.0 points in his last ten appearances.
This game is not just another matchup; it is a crucial stepping stone for both teams vying for further advancement in the tournament. Alabama enters as a 5.5 point favorite, indicating confidence in their offensive capabilities against the stout defense of Saint Mary’s. The over/under is set at 149.5, providing a glimpse into the expected scoring dynamics of the game.
For fans eager to catch the action, the game will air on TNT and is also available for streaming through DirecTV Stream, which offers a free trial, and Sling, which has promotional offers for the first month. As the excitement of March Madness unfolds, this second round contest promises to deliver thrilling moments and fierce competition.
Ultimately, as both teams gear up for the battle, the stakes couldn't be higher. March Madness is known for its surprises, and both Alabama and Saint Mary's will be aiming to capitalize on every opportunity. With a spot in the next round on the line, the stage is set for an electrifying game that fans will not want to miss.
