Title: Alabama’s Greatest Game-Winners: Mark Sears and the Legacy of Clutch
Mark Sears’ dramatic buzzer-beater against Auburn instantly entered the pantheon of Alabama basketball’s most iconic moments. But before his heroics, the Crimson Tide had already built a legacy of last-second triumphs. Here are nine of the greatest game-winners in Alabama history, each a defining moment in its own right.
1. Robert Horry vs. Arkansas (1992)
Before becoming an NBA legend, “Big Shot Rob” delivered in college. Horry’s deep three-pointer against Arkansas in the SEC Tournament semifinals sealed a thrilling win, showcasing his early knack for clutch shooting.
2. Mo Williams vs. Florida (2002)
Williams’ off-balance runner as time expired stunned the Gators in Gainesville. His shot not only secured a road victory but also fueled Alabama’s SEC title run.
3. Antoine Pettway vs. Southern Illinois (2004 NCAA Tournament)
Pettway’s last-second layup sent Alabama to the Sweet 16, eliminating a tough Salukis squad. His coast-to-coast drive remains one of the Tide’s greatest March Madness moments.
4. Ronald Steele vs. Georgia (2006)
Down two with seconds left, Steele drained a step-back three at the buzzer to break Georgia’s heart. It was a shot that solidified his reputation as a cold-blooded shooter.
5. JaMychal Green vs. Mississippi State (2011)
Green’s contested fadeaway in overtime lifted Alabama over their SEC rivals. The dramatic win kept their NCAA Tournament hopes alive.
6. Levi Randolph vs. LSU (2015)
Randolph hit a baseline jumper at the horn, silencing the Tigers in Baton Rouge. The shot capped a gutsy Alabama comeback.
7. Collin Sexton vs. Texas A&M (2018 SEC Tournament)
Sexton’s full-court sprint and floater as time expired secured a must-win game for Alabama, proving why he was one of the most electrifying players in school history.
8. Kira Lewis Jr. vs. Vanderbilt (2020)
Lewis weaved through defenders and finished a tough layup at the buzzer, keeping Alabama’s postseason dreams alive.
9. Jaden Shackelford vs. South Carolina (2022)
Shackelford’s deep three in double overtime sealed a marathon win, reinforcing his status as a fearless shot-maker.
Mark Sears now joins this legendary list, his shot against Auburn forever etching his name into Alabama basketball lore.
