In a twist of fate, the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team is set to begin their 2025 NCAA Tournament journey in Cleveland, Ohio—a city that haunts their postseason memories. This return to Cleveland rekindles memories of their infamous first-round exit in 2015, when as a higher seed, they were stunned by a lower-seeded opponent, casting a long shadow over the program’s tournament legacy.
Fast forward to 2025, and Alabama enters the tournament as the No. 2 seed in the East Region, boasting a 25-8 record. Their opening matchup pits them against the No. 15 seed, Robert Morris, a team that clinched the Horizon League title with a 26-8 record. The game is scheduled for Friday, March 21, at 11:40 a.m. CT at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, and will be televised on truTV.
The Crimson Tide’s path to the tournament has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. They showcased their dominance with a commanding 99-70 victory over Kentucky in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals. However, their momentum was halted in the semifinals by the Florida Gators, who handed Alabama a 104-82 defeat, exposing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by future opponents.
This season, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) has demonstrated its strength, with a record 14 teams earning spots in the NCAA Tournament. Alabama’s impressive seeding reflects their resilience and adaptability, qualities that will be tested as they navigate a competitive bracket.
The specter of past tournament disappointments looms large, particularly the 2015 upset in Cleveland. This year’s squad is acutely aware of the program’s history and is determined to script a different narrative. Head coach Nate Oats has emphasized the importance of learning from the past while focusing on the present challenge.
Robert Morris, though a No. 15 seed, is not to be underestimated. Their Horizon League championship run showcased their tenacity and cohesion. Head coach Andy Toole acknowledges the physical advantages Alabama holds but believes his team can compete as a cohesive unit. The Colonials’ ability to execute under pressure could pose problems if the Crimson Tide underestimate their opponent.
As the tournament unfolds, Alabama aims to exorcise the ghosts of Cleveland and embark on a deep postseason run. The journey begins with overcoming the first hurdle—Robert Morris—while keeping an eye on the ultimate prize: a national championship.
