March Madness: Alabama, led by Mark Sears, establishes NCAA tournament record with 3-point barrage over BYU.

The 2025 NCAA Tournament has been filled with thrilling moments, unforgettable upsets, and performances that will be remembered for years to come. But on the night of their Sweet 16 matchup, the Alabama Crimson Tide turned heads in a way few teams in tournament history ever have. Behind the stellar play of senior guard Mark Sears, Alabama broke the NCAA Tournament record for most three-pointers made in a single game, leading to a dominant 98-72 victory over the BYU Cougars.

Alabama’s historic performance wasn’t just a simple win—it was a statement. A team known for its athleticism, speed, and defensive prowess showcased one of the most explosive offensive displays in NCAA history. For BYU, it was a tough night where they simply couldn’t keep up with the sheer firepower of Alabama’s barrage from beyond the arc. Let’s break down this monumental game, the key players, and the impact it has had on Alabama’s tournament journey.

Setting the Stage: High Expectations for Alabama

Heading into the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Alabama was regarded as one of the favorites to make a deep run. Under head coach Nate Oats, the Crimson Tide had developed a reputation for their fast-paced offense, which revolved around perimeter shooting, spacing, and ball movement. With an emphasis on three-point shooting and an ability to score in transition, Alabama had turned into one of the most dangerous teams in college basketball.

The Tide boasted a talented roster, featuring the likes of senior Mark Sears, a seasoned guard with incredible shooting ability; Brandon Miller, a dynamic forward capable of taking over a game; and Jahvon Quinerly, who had the playmaking skills to orchestrate the offense. With a solid defense to back up their offensive firepower, Alabama was primed to be a contender in this year’s tournament.

BYU, on the other hand, was a scrappy, disciplined team with a well-balanced roster. The Cougars had been impressive in the earlier rounds, upsetting higher-seeded teams and showing that they were capable of making a deep run. However, they knew they would face a stiff challenge against Alabama’s high-octane offense. The question was whether BYU’s defense, which had been one of their strong suits, could withstand the storm coming their way.

First Half: Alabama Sets the Tone Early

From the very first whistle, Alabama came out firing on all cylinders. Their offense, which had been one of the most potent in the country, looked even more dangerous on this stage. The ball movement was crisp, and the players were finding open shots with ease. A key factor early on was Alabama’s ability to space the floor, pulling BYU’s defenders out and allowing shooters to get clean looks.

Mark Sears, who had been a consistent leader for Alabama all season, was the player who set the tone. Within the first few minutes, Sears knocked down his first two three-pointers—both from well beyond the arc. His confidence and ability to stretch the defense were immediately apparent. As Sears continued to hit shots, his teammates followed suit. The ball was swinging from side to side, and each Alabama player was moving off the ball, looking for the best possible shot.

It didn’t take long for the Crimson Tide to show just how dangerous they were from deep. By the 10-minute mark, Alabama had already hit five three-pointers, with Sears knocking down four of them. The Crimson Tide were shooting at a blistering 80% from beyond the arc, and BYU had no answers. The Cougars tried switching up their defense, but Alabama was relentless in their pursuit of the three-point shot. With Sears’ leadership, Alabama’s offense seemed nearly unstoppable.

BYU, in contrast, was struggling to find their rhythm. While Alex Barcello, one of BYU’s star guards, was doing his best to keep his team in the game with a few clutch shots, Alabama’s defensive pressure made it difficult for the Cougars to get clean looks. As the first half wore on, the Crimson Tide continued to rain threes. With under 5 minutes remaining in the half, Alabama had already hit 13 three-pointers, setting a new record for the most three-pointers in an NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game.

By halftime, Alabama had put together one of the most impressive shooting performances in tournament history. They had scored 56 points, 39 of which came from beyond the arc. Sears, in particular, was on fire, contributing 18 points, including five three-pointers. The Crimson Tide had taken a commanding 56-36 lead, and it was clear that BYU’s defense simply couldn’t keep up with the relentless barrage of shots.

Second Half: Alabama Breaks Records and Extends the Lead

If the first half was an impressive display, the second half was nothing short of historic. Alabama came out of the locker room with one goal in mind: to break the record for most three-pointers made in an NCAA Tournament game. With the way they were shooting, it seemed only a matter of time before they would shatter the previous mark.

Sears, who had been red-hot in the first half, didn’t slow down. He quickly hit two more three-pointers early in the second half, pushing Alabama’s total to 15. His confidence was contagious, and as the Cougars continued to struggle defensively, it seemed like every shot Alabama put up was going in. The Crimson Tide were shooting at an otherworldly 77% from three-point range, and it felt like there was no way for BYU to stop them.

With the game already well in hand, Alabama’s lead grew to 30 points midway through the second half. The Cougars were scrambling to find answers, but every time they tried to mount a comeback, Alabama answered with another three-pointer. The Crimson Tide were in full control, and Sears was the catalyst. He finished the game with 28 points, including an astounding 8 three-pointers, and was named the player of the game.

By the final whistle, Alabama had broken the NCAA Tournament record for most three-pointers made in a single game, finishing with a total of 24. They shot 78% from beyond the arc—an almost unthinkable statistic, especially at the Sweet 16 stage. The Crimson Tide had poured in 42 points from three-point range alone, contributing to their total of 98 points in the game.

The Supporting Cast: Key Contributions from Alabama’s Role Players

While Mark Sears’ performance was the headline, Alabama’s supporting cast played a crucial role in the team’s success. Brandon Miller, one of the most versatile players in college basketball, added 18 points, many of which came from beyond the arc. Miller’s ability to stretch the floor, attack the rim, and create his own shot made him a difficult matchup for BYU.

Jahvon Quinerly, the experienced point guard, also chipped in with 12 points and 7 assists, ensuring the ball movement remained fluid throughout the game. Quinerly’s court vision and decision-making were instrumental in Alabama’s offensive flow, as he kept the ball moving and helped his teammates find open shots.

Additionally, forward Noah Clowney and guard Dom Welch each hit multiple three-pointers, contributing to the team’s offensive explosion. Clowney, in particular, provided solid defense and rebounding, helping to limit BYU’s second-chance opportunities.

Alabama’s bench also had a role to play in this historic victory. Players like Mark Sears’ backup, the steady Jaden Bradley, and reserve forward James Rojas came in and hit timely shots when needed. The bench’s ability to contribute offensively and defensively allowed Alabama to maintain their lead and keep up the intensity throughout the game.

BYU’s Efforts and Struggles

BYU, despite their best efforts, couldn’t keep pace with Alabama’s shooting barrage. Alex Barcello led the Cougars with 20 points, hitting several crucial three-pointers to keep BYU in the game for as long as possible. Forward Caleb Lohner also contributed 15 points and 8 rebounds, but it was clear that Alabama’s defense was too stifling and their offense too potent for BYU to overcome.

The Cougars struggled to find open looks, and when they did, they often found themselves contested by Alabama’s length and athleticism. The Crimson Tide’s defensive rotations were swift, and their shot-blocking ability made it difficult for BYU to capitalize on their opportunities in the paint. Every time BYU tried to chip away at the lead, Alabama responded with another three-pointer, and the game quickly slipped out of reach.

A Record-Breaking Night for the Crimson Tide

By the time the final buzzer sounded, Alabama’s 98-72 victory over BYU had become a record-breaking moment in NCAA Tournament history. With 24 three-pointers made, they had not only shattered the previous record but had done so in commanding fashion. The Crimson Tide’s shooting display was one of the most incredible performances ever witnessed in March Madness, and it sent a clear message to the rest of the field: Alabama was a force to be reckoned with.

Looking Ahead: Alabama’s National Championship Aspirations

As the Crimson Tide move forward in the tournament, their Sweet 16 victory serves as a reminder of just how dangerous they can be when they’re firing on all cylinders. Alabama will face even tougher competition in the upcoming rounds, but if they can maintain this level of shooting proficiency, they will be a tough team to beat.

Mark Sears’ leadership and the team’s ability to shoot the three at such a high level make Alabama one of the favorites to win the national title. With Brandon Miller, Jahvon Quinerly, and the rest of the Crimson Tide firing on all cylinders, it’s clear that Alabama is a team that could go all the way. For now, their record-breaking victory over BYU remains one of the most memorable moments in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.