The NCAA Tournament run for Alabama State is over.
No. 1 seeded Auburn Tigers defeated the 16th-seeded Hornets 83-63 on Thursday in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Rupp Arena.
Miles Kelly stole the show with a remarkable performance, tying Bryce Brown’s program record with seven 3-pointers. Kelly’s shooting prowess was instrumental in securing the win, as he led the Tigers with 23 points.
All-American Johni Broome contributed significantly with 14 points and a game-high 11 rebounds, marking his 19th double-double of the season—a new program record. Tahaad Pettiford added 16 points, while Chaney Johnson chipped in with 13 points and seven rebounds.
Alabama State on a 9-0 run 👀#MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/q6IgVVfGJP
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 20, 2025
Alabama State struggled to keep pace despite their valiant effort. Amarr Knox led the Hornets with 18 points, but their inability to capitalize on key opportunities, including missed free throws, hindered their chances of closing the gap.
The Hornets’ strong defensive play forced Auburn into 12 turnovers, but ultimately, Auburn’s deep roster and rebounding advantage proved decisive.
Auburn will face No. 9 seed Creighton in the second round on Saturday, aiming to advance to the Sweet 16.
