Alabama Women’s Basketball loses in double overtime of the NCAA Tournament after wasting a second-half lead.
In a heartbreaking finish to their 2025 NCAA Tournament run, the Alabama women’s basketball team suffered a crushing double-overtime defeat at the hands of the Maryland Terrapins. The Crimson Tide had controlled much of the game, building a comfortable lead in the second half, only to see it slip away in the final moments. This dramatic loss ends Alabama’s promising season and leaves fans and players alike reflecting on what could have been.
A Strong Start for Alabama
Heading into the second-round matchup, Alabama, the No. 5 seed in their region, faced a tough test against the No. 4-seeded Maryland Terrapins. The Crimson Tide entered the game riding a wave of momentum following a dominant first-round victory. From the outset, Alabama appeared determined to continue that success, taking control early and dictating the pace of play.
Senior guard Sarah Ashlee Barker led the charge, showcasing her offensive prowess with a dazzling array of jump shots, three-pointers, and aggressive drives to the basket. The team executed its game plan effectively, spreading the floor and capitalizing on Maryland’s defensive lapses. By halftime, Alabama held a seven-point advantage, leading 47-40.
Building the Lead in the Second Half
The Crimson Tide extended their lead in the third quarter, at one point going up by 13 points. Their defense stifled Maryland’s top scorers, forcing difficult shots and turnovers. Alabama’s transition game was also in full force, as they capitalized on fast-break opportunities and converted them into easy baskets.
Junior forward Aaliyah Nye was instrumental during this stretch, knocking down several key three-pointers to keep the momentum in Alabama’s favor. Meanwhile, the team’s post players controlled the paint, limiting Maryland’s offensive rebounds and second-chance opportunities.
Maryland’s Furious Comeback
Despite Alabama’s strong performance through three quarters, Maryland refused to go down without a fight. The Terrapins ramped up their defensive intensity in the fourth quarter, applying full-court pressure that disrupted Alabama’s rhythm. Turnovers began to pile up for the Crimson Tide, allowing Maryland to claw their way back into the game.
Maryland’s Sarah Te-Biasu and Shyanne Sellers spearheaded the comeback effort, combining for multiple clutch baskets. With just under two minutes remaining in regulation, the Terrapins cut the deficit to a single possession. The Crimson Tide struggled to find quality shots down the stretch, and Maryland took full advantage.
With seconds remaining, Maryland’s Sellers drove to the basket and converted a layup to tie the game at 86-86, forcing overtime.
First Overtime – Alabama’s Last Chance to Close It Out
Alabama had an opportunity to regroup and finish the game in the first overtime. Barker continued her heroic effort, scoring on back-to-back possessions to give Alabama a four-point lead. However, foul trouble plagued the Crimson Tide, with key players Nye and Zaay Green fouling out, forcing Alabama to rely on their bench in crucial moments.
Maryland capitalized, with Te-Biasu knocking down a deep three-pointer to shift the momentum once again. With just a few seconds remaining, Barker was fouled while attempting a three-pointer, sending her to the free-throw line with Alabama down by three. She calmly sank all three free throws, tying the game at 98-98 and extending the contest into a second overtime.
Second Overtime – Maryland Seals the Win
By the time the second overtime began, Alabama appeared fatigued. Maryland, fueled by their home crowd, took control of the game. The Crimson Tide struggled to generate consistent offense, while Maryland found scoring opportunities in the paint and at the free-throw line.
Sellers delivered the dagger, nailing a three-pointer with under a minute left to give Maryland a five-point lead. Alabama attempted to mount a final push, but a critical turnover in the closing seconds sealed their fate. When the final buzzer sounded, Maryland secured a 111-108 victory, crushing Alabama’s hopes of advancing to the Sweet 16.
Sarah Ashlee Barker’s Historic Performance
Despite the loss, Barker’s performance will go down in Alabama history. The senior guard finished with a career-high 45 points, the most ever scored by an Alabama player in an NCAA Tournament game. Her performance ranks among the top individual efforts in tournament history, drawing praise from analysts and fans alike.
Barker shot an impressive 17-for-25 from the field, including four three-pointers, and added eight rebounds and three steals. Her ability to rise to the occasion in clutch moments was evident, particularly with her game-extending free throws at the end of the first overtime.
What Went Wrong for Alabama?
While Alabama put up an impressive fight, several factors contributed to their heartbreaking loss:
- Foul Trouble – The Crimson Tide had multiple key players foul out, which limited their offensive and defensive effectiveness in crunch time.
- Turnovers – Alabama struggled with ball security in the fourth quarter and both overtimes, allowing Maryland to capitalize on extra possessions.
- Fatigue – Playing extended minutes in a high-paced game took its toll, particularly in the second overtime when Alabama’s shot selection and defensive rotations suffered.
- Maryland’s Adjustments – The Terrapins made key adjustments in the second half, utilizing full-court pressure and attacking the paint to wear down Alabama’s defense.
Reflections on Alabama’s Season
Despite the devastating loss, Alabama’s season should be considered a success. The Crimson Tide finished with a 24-9 record and proved they could compete with some of the best teams in the country. Under head coach Kristy Curry, Alabama continues to build a strong program capable of making deep tournament runs.
Barker’s leadership and record-setting performances set a high standard for future Alabama teams. The program will now turn its attention to recruiting and player development, aiming to build upon this year’s experience and return stronger in 2026.
Looking Ahead
Alabama will need to replace key departing players, including Barker, whose collegiate career has come to an end. However, with a solid foundation and talented underclassmen ready to step up, the future remains bright for the Crimson Tide.
The offseason will be critical for Alabama as they assess areas for improvement and prepare for another shot at postseason success. While this loss will sting for some time, it also serves as motivation for the returning players to push further in the years to come.
For now, Alabama fans can take pride in the team’s remarkable journey, knowing they left everything on the court in a game that will be remembered for years to come.
