Instant Reactions: Alabama’s record-breaking performance in the Sweet 16 sees them defeat BYU.

Only two wins away from a return trip to the Final Four, the Alabama Crimson Tide officially returned to men’s NCAA Tournament action Thursday night, facing off against the BYU Cougars in the Sweet 16.

An East Region matchup of the No. 2 and No. 6 seeds, Alabama would come away with the victory Thursday night as well by a final score of 113-88, advancing to the Elite Elite on Saturday in the process.

To claim the victory, Alabama certainly impressed as well, making an impact from three-point range in a record-setting performance, led by guard Mark Sears with one of his top showings so far this March.

Let’s take a look at some instant reactions to Alabama’s impressive Sweet 16 win against BYU on Thursday night.

Mark Sears stellar for Alabama offensively

Alabama guard Mark Sears had a major impact on the Crimson Tide’s success in this game, finishing with a stat line of a game-high 34 points, three rebounds, eight assists, and three steals on 10-of-16 shooting from three-point range. Sears’ success against BYU was similar to what the Alabama guard did a year ago in the NCAA Tournament, and the Crimson Tide will certainly need this version of Sears in the Elite Eight on Saturday.

Alabama lights it up from three-point range

Thursday night was likely Alabama’s top three-point shooting performance during March Madness, going a combined 25-of-51 from deep, which translates to 49%, and also set a NCAA Tournament record for the most made by a team in a single game. As for BYU, the Cougars shot only 6-of-30, which translates to 20%.

Aden Holloway big off Alabama bench

Aside from Sears previously, there might not have been an Alabama player more impactful in the win Thursday than fellow guard Aden Holloway. Coming off the bench, Holloway finished with a stat line of 23 points, two rebounds, three assists, and two steals on 6-of-13 shooting from three.

This might’ve been Alabama’s best game yet

Simply put, this might have been Alabama’s most impressive performance so far this season, especially considering the magnitude of the game, as well as the caliber of opponent. If the Crimson Tide can now duplicate this in the Elite Eight on Saturday, Alabama might just find themselves in the Final Four for the second consecutive season.

Alabama advances to Elite Eight, will play winner of Duke vs. Arizona

With this win over BYU, Alabama has now advanced to the Elite Eight where they will face the winner of No. 1 Duke and No. 4 Arizona on Saturday. The time of the game is currently to be determined.

BYU’s Struggles: Missed Opportunities and Defensive Failures

BYU came into this game with high hopes but struggled to keep pace with Alabama’s firepower. Their defense was porous, unable to contain Alabama’s shooters or stop them in transition. The Cougars’ offense, which had been efficient all season, was stifled by Alabama’s relentless defensive pressure. BYU shot just 41% from the field and was completely outclassed in the second half.

1. Lack of Defensive Adjustments

BYU’s inability to make defensive adjustments was evident throughout the game. Despite early signs that Alabama’s three-point shooting could be a problem, the Cougars failed to close out on shooters and allowed too many wide-open looks. The Crimson Tide made them pay, hitting a flurry of threes that demoralized BYU.

2. Struggles from Key Players

BYU’s leading scorer, Alex Barcello, was held to just 14 points on 5-of-14 shooting. His struggles were emblematic of the team’s overall difficulties in executing their offense. With Barcello struggling, the Cougars lacked a consistent scoring threat, and their offense became disjointed.

Historical Context and Legacy

This victory for Alabama will be remembered as one of the best performances in NCAA Tournament history. Not only did the Crimson Tide set multiple records, but they also made a statement that they are legitimate contenders for the national title. Alabama has now shown that they can win in a variety of ways—whether through explosive offense or suffocating defense—and that they are capable of going all the way.

The team’s performance in this game could serve as a turning point in their season, giving them the confidence and momentum needed to continue their championship pursuit. With their record-setting shooting, stifling defense, and unselfish playmaking, Alabama is primed for a deep run in this year’s tournament.

Alabama’s Statement Win

Alabama’s 98-67 win over BYU was a dominant and historic performance that showcased everything that makes this team special. They were efficient, they were dynamic, and they were relentless. It was a statement that they are not just one of the top teams in the tournament, but one of the best teams in the nation. As they move on to the Elite Eight, Alabama has proven that they are more than capable of making a run at the national title—and after this performance, they should be considered one of the favorites to take home the championship.