Alabama Faces Saint Mary’s in NCAA Tournament Showdown

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Alabama Crimson Tide will take on the Saint Mary’s Gaels in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Sunday afternoon. The matchup, part of the East Region, begins at 5:10 p.m. Central and will be broadcast live on TNT.

Saint Mary’s, hailing from Moraga, California, has made a notable mark in college basketball this season. The No. 7 seed in the tournament, the Gaels boast a remarkable 29-5 record following a victory over Vanderbilt in the first round. Their success is marked by a rich history; according to the school’s official website, the nickname ‘Gaels’ reflects the Irish warrior spirit characterized by passion and hard work.

The origin of the Gaels’ nickname can be traced back to the 1920s, when it was coined by acclaimed sports writer Grantland Rice, who recognized the Irish-American heritage of many players on the school’s now-defunct football team.

Alabama, the No. 2 seed in the region, enters the matchup with a 26-8 record after defeating Robert Morris in their opening game. With both teams looking to secure a spot in the next round, the atmosphere in Cleveland is expected to be electric.

Fans are eager to witness how the contrasting styles of play will unfold, with Saint Mary’s known for its disciplined defense and Alabama’s fast-paced offense. As head coach Nate Oats leads the Crimson Tide, he emphasized the importance of preparation and adaptability. ‘Every game is a new challenge, and we need to be ready for anything they throw at us,’ Oats said during a press conference.

As the tournament progresses, every game becomes increasingly pivotal for both teams, adding to the stakes for this anticipated showdown. With the championship in sight, the outcome of this match could pave the way for future success in March Madness.