March Madness has arrived, and the excitement is palpable as the teams gear up for a thrilling NCAA Tournament. On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the First Four commenced with a highly anticipated matchup between the St. Francis Red Flash and the Alabama State Hornets at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Both teams were eager to secure a place in the Round of 64 and a chance to face off against the top-seeded Auburn Tigers.
The Red Flash, entering the tournament with a record of 16-17, achieved their second tournament appearance, marking a significant milestone as it has been 31 years since they last qualified back in 1991. The team secured their place in the tournament by winning the Northeast Conference (NEC) Tournament, culminating in a nail-biting 46-43 victory over Central Connecticut State. This achievement has energized the program and fans alike, as St. Francis aims for their first NCAA Tournament win in history.
Conversely, the Alabama State Hornets boasted a record of 19-15 and were looking to capitalize on their fifth NCAA Tournament appearance and their first since 2011. The team had a gritty journey through the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Tournament, ultimately overcoming Jackson State with a score of 60-56 in the championship game. Head coach Tony Madlock has progressively steered the program to this point, and the Hornets are determined to make a mark this year.
As the clock struck 6:40 p.m. ET, fans settled in for the game, which was broadcast on truTV. Both squads faced immense pressure; for the Red Flash, it was a long-awaited return to the tournament spotlight, while for the Hornets, they aimed to break a decade-long playoff drought.
In terms of live streaming options, fans were not left out, with multiple platforms available for viewing including Hulu with Live TV, Sling, Max, and DirecTV. These services provided a way for those without cable to watch what promises to be an exhilarating matchup.
Reflecting on individual performances, both teams had standout players to watch. Riley Parker led St. Francis in scoring, averaging 13.4 points per game throughout the season. Parker, however, faced an uphill battle coming into this game, having struggled with his shooting in previous outings. Meanwhile, CJ Hines emerged as a crucial player for the Hornets during their SWAC run, notably scoring 15 points in each of their quarterfinal and semifinal games, culminating in a stellar 20-point performance in the championship.
The contest promised a compelling clash of styles. The Red Flash's strong interior offense averaged nearly 56% in two-point shooting, highlighted by their ability to navigate tight game scenarios. Conversely, Alabama State's defensive strategy relied on its capability to force turnovers, showcasing their rank among the nation’s best in defensive efficiency.
As both teams prepared for their critical showdown, the atmosphere in Dayton grew charged with tension and anticipation. The matchup not only symbolized a battle for tournament progression but also represented a significant opportunity for redemption—particularly for the Red Flash seeking to rewrite their program's tournament narrative.
Beyond the game itself, the implications of this matchup are immense. The winner will face a formidable No. 1 seed, Auburn, on Thursday. Therefore, both teams are well aware that every play counts and the drive to succeed runs deep. The excitement and stories behind March Madness are what turn the tournament into something magical, and the First Four games serve as the beginning of this captivating journey.
In summation, the St. Francis Red Flash meeting the Alabama State Hornets is a highlight of the NCAA Tournament where history is on the line. With high stakes, passionate competition, and fervent support, this First Four game sets the stage for what could be a legendary March Madness narrative.
As fans and analysts eagerly await to see which team advances, both will be leaving it all on the floor, knowing that the thrill of the tournament hinges on every moment they share in Dayton.
