Mark Sears Helps Alabama Make NCAA History

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Harris | Last updated Mar 27, 2025 9:51 PM ET

The Sweet 16 tipped off with a thrilling showdown between the No. 6 BYU Cougars and the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide, kicking off an exciting weekend of hoops.

In a high-octane start, 30 points were scored within just five minutes of play, setting the tone for an electrifying, fast-paced game.

The Tide delivered a record-breaking performance, attempting an NCAA tournament-best 51 three-pointers and sinking 25 of them—the most ever made in a single game. This historic effort powered Alabama to a commanding 113-88 victory, earning them a spot in the Elite Eight once again.

Leading the charge was senior star guard Mark Sears, who posted an astounding 34 points, including a record-breaking 10 made three-pointers.

Making up for a rough 1-9 start from beyond the arc, Sears stepped up when it mattered most and delivered in a big way. Now, the Tide stands just one win away from reaching the Final Four for the second consecutive year.

This offensive performance is exactly what teams dream of as the stakes rise in late March. Staying red-hot from the field will be essential in Alabama’s pursuit to cut down the nets in San Antonio, just under two weeks away.

So far, the Tide has attempted an incredible 89 three-pointers across their three NCAA tournament games, showcasing their reliance on perimeter shooting. To keep their championship hopes alive, they'll need this level of precision against the toughest competition in the country.

All eyes remain in Newark, where Alabama awaits a high-stakes matchup against either Duke or Arizona. The Tide's next challenge promises to test their skills against one of college basketball's most storied programs.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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