Alabama State’s Miracle Buzzer-Beater Stuns the Nation in March Madness Opener
In a moment that will be replayed for years, Alabama State pulled off a jaw-dropping, last-second Hail Mary to advance in the opening round of March Madness. The Hornets, considered heavy underdogs against a powerhouse opponent, delivered an unforgettable sequence that will go down in tournament history.
With just 2.3 seconds left on the clock and trailing 74-72, Alabama State inbounded the ball from under its own basket. The pass went to junior forward Malik Carter, who launched a full-court heave from beyond his own three-point line. As the ball soared through the air, the arena held its breath. Time expired as it rattled off the backboard and through the net, igniting pure pandemonium.
Fans erupted, players stormed the court, and even the referees took an extra second to process what had just happened. The shot was reviewed, confirmed, and history was made—Alabama State had just won in the most improbable fashion.
The controversial finish left the opposing team and its fans in shock. Some argued that Carter had stepped on the baseline before releasing the ball, while others claimed the clock started late. Social media exploded with debates over whether Alabama State had benefited from a missed call, but the scoreboard told the only story that mattered.
“I saw the clock, took the shot, and prayed,” Carter said in the postgame interview. “I can’t even explain it. It’s just March Madness.”
This victory wasn’t just about one miraculous shot; it was a testament to the resilience of a team that had fought through adversity all season. Alabama State’s head coach, Derrick Wallace, praised his team’s determination, calling it “one of the most unbelievable moments in basketball history.”
Whether you see it as fate, skill, or controversy, one thing is undeniable—Alabama State just gave us an all-time March Madness moment.
