Alabama Takes on Robert Morris in First Round of NCAA Tournament: A Crucial Test for the Crimson Tide Women’s Basketball Team

 

The stage is set. The Alabama Crimson Tide women’s basketball team, fresh off a record-breaking season and led by standout star Sarah Ashlee Barker, is preparing for their opening game in the NCAA Tournament. This year, Alabama’s tournament journey begins with a matchup against the Robert Morris Colonials, a program that has earned its spot in the tournament but is widely regarded as an underdog against the powerhouse Crimson Tide. For Alabama, this game represents more than just a chance to advance—it is an opportunity to showcase the skill, determination, and grit that has defined their season, setting the tone for a potential deep run in the tournament.

A Look Back at Alabama’s Historic Season

Before diving into the specifics of the game, it’s important to reflect on Alabama’s remarkable season, which has made them one of the most exciting teams in women’s college basketball. Under the guidance of head coach Kristy Curry, Alabama has taken significant steps forward this season, finishing with one of their best records in recent memory. The team’s success has been largely attributed to the exceptional play of Sarah Ashlee Barker, who has been the heart and soul of the squad.

Barker’s journey this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Having earned both the prestigious Maxwell Award and the Player of the Year title, she has demonstrated that she is one of the best players in the nation. Her ability to impact all aspects of the game—from scoring and playmaking to defense and leadership—has made her a key figure in Alabama’s rise to the upper echelons of women’s college basketball. However, while Barker’s individual accomplishments have been instrumental, this success has been built on the collective effort of the entire team.

The Crimson Tide have benefited from a balanced roster, with strong contributions from players like junior guard Brittany Davis, senior forward Jasmine Walker, and dynamic freshman point guard JaMya Mingo-Young. Together, they have created a well-rounded, high-scoring team that has become a formidable force in the SEC. Alabama’s offense has been potent, averaging over 80 points per game, and their defense, while aggressive, has been effective in limiting opposing teams’ scoring opportunities.

As Alabama enters the NCAA Tournament, expectations are high. The team is poised to make a deep run, and the matchup against Robert Morris represents the first test on that path. But before looking ahead, it’s important to take a closer look at their opponent—Robert Morris University.

Robert Morris: The Underdog with a Fighting Spirit

Robert Morris University, located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, has earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament after securing the Northeast Conference (NEC) title. Although they are widely seen as underdogs in their matchup with Alabama, the Colonials have proven that they are a team capable of surprising their opponents and pulling off upsets. Robert Morris has a storied history in women’s basketball and is known for its tenacity, hustle, and disciplined play.

The Colonials are led by head coach Charlie Buscaglia, who has built a strong program focused on fundamentals and team-oriented play. This year’s team is no exception, as they have leaned heavily on their defense to propel them through the NEC tournament. Robert Morris is known for its aggressive full-court press and swarming defense, which forces turnovers and disrupts opposing offenses. In their opening round game against Alabama, they will need to be at their best defensively if they are to contain the high-scoring Crimson Tide.

Key players for Robert Morris include senior guard Kimi Baugh, who has been the team’s leading scorer and playmaker, and junior forward Nia Adams, a physical presence in the paint. While the Colonials do not have the same level of star power as Alabama, they have shown that they can play with heart and determination, relying on teamwork and grit to overcome more talented opponents. Alabama will need to be prepared for a tough, physical battle against a team that has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

What to Expect from Alabama in the Tournament

As the higher-seeded team in this matchup, Alabama will enter the game as the heavy favorite. However, the Crimson Tide know better than to take their opponents lightly. Head coach Kristy Curry has emphasized the importance of playing with intensity and focus from the opening tip. Alabama’s roster is deep, and the team has a balanced offensive attack that can beat opponents in a variety of ways. From Sarah Ashlee Barker’s scoring ability and court vision to the post presence of Jasmine Walker and the perimeter shooting of Brittany Davis, Alabama has the weapons to dismantle Robert Morris if they execute their game plan.

In particular, Alabama’s transition offense will be key to their success in this game. The Crimson Tide have excelled in pushing the ball up the court and creating fast-break opportunities, and Robert Morris will need to slow down the tempo in order to stay competitive. Alabama’s up-tempo style of play, combined with their scoring depth, makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the tournament.

Defensively, Alabama has been a strong unit, but they will need to be mindful of Robert Morris’s ability to disrupt their offense with its pressure defense. The Colonials will likely press full-court to try to create turnovers and prevent Alabama from getting into their offensive sets. Alabama will need to handle the pressure, make smart passes, and avoid turning the ball over if they want to control the game. If they can break the press early and efficiently, it will be difficult for Robert Morris to keep up.

One of Alabama’s biggest advantages in this game is the leadership of Sarah Ashlee Barker. As one of the most dynamic players in college basketball, Barker’s ability to control the pace of the game will be crucial. Whether it’s by scoring in transition, facilitating the offense, or playing tough defense, Barker will need to set the tone and lead her team to victory. Her experience in high-pressure situations, including her recent accolades, will be invaluable in ensuring that Alabama remains focused and composed, regardless of the circumstances.

Keys to Victory for Alabama

As they prepare for their first-round matchup against Robert Morris, Alabama will need to focus on several key areas in order to secure the win and avoid a potential upset. Here are the most important factors for Alabama’s success:

1. Handling the Press: Robert Morris is known for its full-court press, which can be disruptive to opposing teams’ offenses. Alabama will need to break the press efficiently, using quick ball movement and smart decision-making to avoid turnovers. Barker’s ability to handle the ball and make plays under pressure will be essential in navigating Robert Morris’s defense.
2. Rebounding and Second-Chance Opportunities: Alabama has a size advantage in the paint, and controlling the boards will be key to maintaining possession and limiting Robert Morris’s second-chance opportunities. Jasmine Walker and other forwards like Ariyah Copeland will need to dominate the glass on both ends of the floor.
3. Defensive Discipline: While Alabama’s offense has been their calling card this season, their defense will need to step up against Robert Morris’s perimeter shooting and scrappy play. Alabama’s ability to contain Kimi Baugh and Nia Adams will be critical to preventing the Colonials from staying in the game.
4. Depth and Balance: Alabama’s depth is one of their greatest strengths. They can beat teams in a variety of ways, whether through fast breaks, half-court sets, or dominant post play. Utilizing their full roster and keeping fresh legs on the court will be important, especially as the game wears on and Robert Morris looks to slow down the tempo.

Looking Ahead

While the first-round matchup against Robert Morris is important, Alabama has bigger aspirations for the tournament. With the talent they have on their roster, the Crimson Tide are poised for a deep run, and this game represents just the first step in what they hope will be a historic NCAA tournament journey. Alabama’s combination of star power, depth, and coaching will be tested in the coming rounds, but if they can take care of business in their opener, they will have a great chance to advance and make noise on the national stage.

For Robert Morris, this game is an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the country. They may be the underdog, but they have the determination and fight to make this an exciting contest. If they can disrupt Alabama’s offensive rhythm and capitalize on their defensive pressure, they might just be able to pull off the unthinkable.

As the game approaches, both teams are eager to get started, knowing that the stakes are high. For Alabama, it’s not just about winning this game—it’s about setting the tone for what they hope will be a successful and memorable tournament run.