Alabama Women’s Basketball loses in double overtime of the NCAA Tournament after wasting a second-half lead.
In a thrilling and gut-wrenching battle, the Alabama Crimson Tide women’s basketball team suffered a heartbreaking 111-108 defeat to the Maryland Terrapins in double overtime during the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The Crimson Tide squandered a commanding 17-point second-half lead, ultimately failing to hold off a relentless Maryland comeback. The game, held at the XFINITY Center in College Park, Maryland, marked another early exit for Alabama, despite a record-breaking individual performance by star guard Sarah Ashlee Barker.
A Strong First Half and a Dominant Third Quarter
Alabama entered the contest as a slight underdog but quickly proved they belonged on the big stage. The first quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with Maryland jumping out to an early lead, only for Alabama to respond with an efficient offensive attack. By halftime, the Crimson Tide had taken a narrow two-point lead, thanks in large part to their defensive pressure and sharp shooting from beyond the arc.
The third quarter saw Alabama at its best. Barker, who had been the team’s leader all season, spearheaded an explosive offensive run. The Tide’s defense forced Maryland into tough shots, leading to transition opportunities that helped Alabama stretch its lead to as much as 17 points. It appeared as though the Crimson Tide had full control of the game heading into the final period.
Maryland’s Resilient Comeback
Despite the deficit, Maryland refused to back down. The Terrapins, led by dynamic guard Sarah Te-Biasu, chipped away at Alabama’s lead possession by possession. Te-Biasu’s perimeter shooting and aggressive drives to the basket kept Maryland within striking distance. Meanwhile, Alabama began to struggle with turnovers and missed free throws, allowing the Terrapins to close the gap.
With under a minute left in regulation, Alabama still held a slim lead. However, a clutch three-pointer from Maryland’s Te-Biasu tied the game, sending it to overtime. The Crimson Tide had an opportunity to secure the win in the closing moments, but a missed free throw and a failed defensive stop forced the game into extra minutes.
Double Overtime Drama
The first overtime was just as intense as regulation. Barker continued her scoring barrage, keeping Alabama in the game despite Maryland’s relentless attack. Both teams traded baskets, with neither able to pull away. Alabama had another chance to seal the victory but once again fell short in the closing seconds.
In the second overtime, fatigue set in, and Alabama struggled to match Maryland’s energy. Te-Biasu delivered another outstanding performance, scoring eight of her 26 points in the period. Maryland capitalized on Alabama’s defensive lapses and missed opportunities, ultimately securing the 111-108 victory.
Barker’s Record-Breaking Performance
Despite the crushing defeat, Sarah Ashlee Barker delivered a historic performance. She scored 45 points, setting an Alabama program record and tying for the fourth-highest individual scoring total in NCAA Tournament history. Barker shot an impressive 17-of-25 from the field, including 4-of-6 from three-point range. She also added eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals in her 45-minute effort. Her performance was a testament to her skill, leadership, and determination, solidifying her as one of the top players in Alabama history.
What’s Next for Alabama?
With the loss, Alabama concludes its season with a 24-9 record. While the defeat is undoubtedly painful, the team showed significant progress throughout the year. Head coach Kristy Curry will look to build on this season’s success as the program aims to take the next step and make a deeper tournament run in the future.
Barker’s future remains uncertain, as she will have the option to enter the WNBA Draft or return for another season. Regardless of her decision, Alabama has promising young talent ready to step up. The experience gained from this intense NCAA Tournament battle will serve as a valuable lesson for the returning players.
Alabama’s loss to Maryland was a heartbreaking conclusion to an otherwise stellar season. The team showed resilience, skill, and potential but ultimately fell short in a high-stakes moment. With continued development and key additions, the Crimson Tide will look to come back even stronger next season, ready to make an even deeper run in March Madness.