Alabama State Sneaks Past Jackson State for SWAC Championship Win

COLLEGE PARK, Ga. (AP) — Alabama State University’s basketball team clinched its first NCAA Tournament berth since 2011 by defeating Jackson State University 60-56 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament championship on March 15, 2025. Guard CJ Hines led the Hornets with 20 points in a nail-biting finish.

In a tightly contested matchup, the teams traded leads throughout the game. Jackson State held its last advantage at 52-51 after a jumper by Dorian McMillian with 1:48 remaining. Following that, Alabama State surged ahead, with Micah Octave scoring a layup, TJ Madlock securing a jumper, and Shawn Fulcher making two critical free throws. This late push established a 58-53 lead with just 13 seconds left on the clock.

Jackson State attempted to rally, with McMillian hitting a three-pointer shortly after, but Micah Simpson sealed the win for Alabama State with successful free throws. Hines shot 8-of-15 from the field and 4-of-6 from three-point range. Madlock also contributed significantly, pulling down 12 rebounds and adding seven points, three assists, three steals, and two blocks.

“It means everything to us to be back in the NCAA Tournament,” Hines said following the victory. “We’ve worked so hard this season and to see it pay off is incredible.”

On the opposing side, Jackson State’s Shannon Grant led his team with 20 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks, displaying strong defense throughout the game. McMillian finished the night with nine points, seven rebounds, and two blocks, but the team’s overall performance fell short in critical moments.

Despite out-rebounding Alabama State 44-36, Jackson State struggled with ball control, turning the ball over 14 times compared to just six for Alabama State. The Hornets made four more three-pointers than the Tigers, which proved decisive in the game’s outcome.

The win not only marked a significant moment in Alabama State basketball history, but it also ensured a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the fifth time in the program’s history.

“I’m extremely proud of our guys. They fought until the end,” said Alabama State head coach Tony Madlock. “Winning the SWAC championship shows the dedication and resilience of this team.”

With Selection Sunday approaching, teams across the nation are eagerly anticipating their placement for the upcoming NCAA Tournament, with Alabama State’s victory serving as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence in college basketball.