Alabama loses to Maryland in the second round of March Madness, and Barker sets a program record.

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament produced yet another unforgettable game as No. 5 seed Alabama Crimson Tide faced off against No. 4 seed Maryland Terrapins in a dramatic second-round matchup. The game, which went into double overtime, saw Maryland clinch a 111-108 victory to advance to the Sweet 16. Despite the loss, Alabama senior guard Sarah Ashlee Barker made history by setting a program record with 45 points, an achievement that stands as one of the most impressive individual performances in tournament history.

The Game Breakdown

From the opening tip, the intensity of the contest was evident. Alabama came out strong, establishing an early lead behind Barker’s hot shooting and aggressive drives to the basket. The Crimson Tide led by as many as 17 points in the second half, appearing to be in firm control. Maryland, however, demonstrated resilience, slowly chipping away at the deficit through clutch shooting and defensive stops.

With just over a minute left in regulation, Alabama led by five points, but Maryland’s Sarah Te-Biasu drained a crucial three-pointer to bring the Terrapins within two. After a defensive stop, Maryland’s Jakia Brown-Turner hit a mid-range jumper to tie the game at 88, sending it into overtime.

Double Overtime Thriller

The first overtime period featured back-and-forth action as Barker continued her offensive onslaught. She nailed a deep three-pointer and converted an and-one layup to keep Alabama in contention. However, Maryland responded with key baskets from their frontcourt duo, which kept the game tied at 99 after the first extra session.

In the second overtime, fatigue became a factor, but Barker remained relentless. She surpassed the 40-point mark with a driving layup and followed it up with a step-back jumper to push Alabama ahead briefly. Unfortunately for the Crimson Tide, Maryland’s balanced attack proved too much, as they executed efficiently in the closing moments. A clutch three-pointer by Bri McDaniel put the Terrapins ahead for good, and free throws sealed the game at 111-108.

Barker’s Historic Night

Though the loss stung, Barker’s performance will be etched into Alabama’s record books. Her 45-point outing shattered the previous school record of 41 points, set by Jasmine Walker in 2021. More significantly, her total ranked among the highest individual scoring performances in NCAA Women’s Tournament history.

Barker was an offensive force throughout the night, finishing with an incredibly efficient 17-of-25 from the field, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. She also grabbed eight rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded three steals in 45 minutes of action. Her ability to score at all three levels—inside, mid-range, and from deep—was on full display.

“I gave it everything I had,” Barker said postgame, holding back tears. “I wanted to win so badly for my team and this program. I’m grateful for my coaches and teammates for putting me in a position to succeed.”

Maryland’s Resilient Effort

While Barker stole the headlines, Maryland’s team-oriented effort was equally noteworthy. The Terrapins had four players score in double figures, led by Sarah Te-Biasu’s 26 points and Jakia Brown-Turner’s 22. Their ability to share the scoring load and make big plays in crucial moments was the deciding factor.

Maryland head coach Brenda Frese praised her team’s determination. “We were down, but we never lost belief. This team has shown all season that they have the heart to battle through adversity. Alabama played a fantastic game, and Barker was unbelievable, but I’m so proud of our group for finding a way to win.”

What’s Next?

For Maryland, the victory propels them into the Sweet 16, where they will face a tough matchup against a top-seeded opponent. Their ability to mount comebacks and execute in pressure situations makes them a dangerous team moving forward.

For Alabama, the season ends in heartbreak, but the program can take immense pride in its progress. Head coach Kristy Curry reflected on the journey. “This team has fought through so much this year. Sarah Ashlee Barker’s performance was one of the best I’ve ever seen, and I’m incredibly proud of what she’s meant to this program. We’ll build on this and come back stronger.”

Legacy of a Record-Breaking Night

Barker’s record-setting performance will be remembered as one of the greatest individual efforts in Alabama women’s basketball history. While the Crimson Tide fell short, her resilience, leadership, and historic scoring display ensure that her legacy will endure. Her name will forever be associated with one of the most thrilling games in recent NCAA Tournament memory.

As fans and analysts look back on this incredible contest, one thing is certain—Sarah Ashlee Barker’s 45-point masterpiece will be a benchmark for future Alabama stars, serving as both an inspiration and a testament to the greatness possible on college basketball’s biggest stage.