In a thrilling Southeastern Conference showdown on March 1, 2025, the No. 5 Tennessee Volunteers edged out the No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide with a dramatic 79-76 victory, highlighted by Jahmai Mashack’s buzzer-beating three-pointer.
The Volunteers found themselves trailing 76-72 with just 36 seconds remaining. Chaz Lanier initiated the comeback with a contested layup, drawing a foul in the process. Although he missed the ensuing free throw, Mashack secured the rebound and was fouled, calmly sinking both free throws to tie the game at 76 with 30.3 seconds left.
On the defensive end, Tennessee’s pressure forced Alabama into a five-second violation under their own basket with only 3.8 seconds remaining, setting the stage for a final offensive play. Mashack received the inbounds pass, dribbled up the court, and launched a shot from midway between the three-point arc and mid-court, sealing the victory as time expired.
Mashack’s performance was instrumental, contributing 11 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Lanier and Jordan Gainey each added 18 points, while Zakai Zeigler chipped in 15 points. For Alabama, Mark Sears led all scorers with 24 points, with Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway adding 13 and 11 points, respectively.
The game began with Lanier scoring Tennessee’s first seven points, but Alabama responded, taking a 9-7 lead. Despite early foul trouble for Zeigler and multiple turnovers, Tennessee managed to hold an 18-16 lead eight minutes into the game. Alabama surged ahead, leading 39-33 late in the first half, but Gainey’s coast-to-coast play reduced the deficit to 42-38 at halftime.
In the second half, Alabama extended their lead to 56-48 with 13:13 remaining. However, a three-point play by Mashack sparked a Tennessee rally. Zeigler’s three-pointer at 6:49 tied the game at 66, setting up the dramatic conclusion.
This victory marked Tennessee’s fourth consecutive win over Alabama and improved their overall record to 24-5, bolstering their case for a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Conversely, Alabama suffered their third loss in five games, moving to 23-6 on the season.
Mashack’s heroics not only secured a memorable win but also underscored Tennessee’s resilience and determination as they continue their pursuit of championship glory.
