Thu Mar 20 11:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Alabama State Makes History with Hail Mary Win in NCAA Tournament
**Dayton, OH** – Alabama State University’s men’s basketball team etched its name into NCAA Tournament history Tuesday night, securing its first-ever tournament victory with a dramatic last-second play. Down by one point with seconds remaining, Amarr Knox caught a full-court pass from Micah Simpson, converting a seemingly impossible layup to defeat St. Francis (PA), 70-68.
The game, a First Four matchup in Dayton, Ohio, saw St. Francis lead for much of the contest, but Alabama State rallied in the second half. After St. Francis hit back-to-back three-pointers to tie the game, Alabama State executed a stunning play, culminating in Knox’s game-winning shot. Knox led the Hornets with 16 points.
Both teams were participating in their first NCAA tournament in over a decade; Alabama State’s last appearance was in 2011, while St. Francis hadn’t been since 1991. Head Coach Tony Madlock attributed the team’s success to their ability to execute under pressure, stating that their games often come down to securing a bucket or a stop.
The historic victory propels Alabama State into the main tournament bracket, where they will face the number one overall seed, Auburn, on Thursday. The win marks a significant milestone for the program and promises an exciting continuation of March Madness.
First Piper 