What injury did Grant Nelson sustain prior to the game against Robert Morris? How did his presence on the court impact Alabama’s performance in the second half? What were the potential implications of a loss for Alabama in terms of upset history? How did the scoring and fouling progression unfold during the critical moments of the game? What will be the next matchup for Alabama following their win?
Grant Nelson wasn’t supposed to play against Robert Morris. The Alabama forward injured his knee in the SEC tournament and was officially deemed questionable for Friday’s first-round NCAA tournament game against the No. 15 Colonials. But Alabama showed how badly it needed him in the second half as it avoided one of the biggest upsets in men’s March Madness history with a 90-81 win. Nelson entered the game for the first with 8:47 to go and Alabama clinging to a four-point lead. Robert Morris briefly took a one-point lead about 90 seconds later, but Alabama went ahead for good with 6:40 to go when Aden Holloway found Nelson for an alley-oop.
Alabama was energized by the presence of its big man as Nelson’s dunk started an 11-1 run. In that span, Nelson grabbed rebounds and drew multiple fouls on the inside. Nelson emerged during last year’s NCAA tournament as Alabama made it to the Final Four. He had 24 points in the team’s 89-87 Sweet 16 win over No. 1 North Carolina and scored 19 in Alabama’s semifinal loss to eventual champion UConn. It was clear from the start of Friday’s game that Alabama hoped to get by without its second-leading scorer with the goal of him taking the court in the second round on Sunday. But Robert Morris gave Alabama all it could handle for much of the game.
The Tide led by six at halftime and couldn’t shake the Colonials in the second half. As Robert Morris kept matching Alabama shot for shot, coach Nate Oats made the decision to throw Nelson onto the floor. It turned out to be a pivotal one. Nelson finished with five points in seven minutes. Robert Morris’ Amar Dickerson led all scorers with 25 points, but he fouled out in the waning minutes as the Colonials’ upset bid faded away. A Robert Morris win would have been the second-biggest upset in men’s NCAA tournament history by point spread. The Crimson Tide were 22.5-point favorites entering the game. Only No. 1 Purdue, who lost to No. 16 Fairleigh Dickinson in 2023, has been a bigger NCAA tournament favorite and lost. The Boilermakers were 23.5-point favorites.
Instead, Alabama will play the winner of No. 7 St. Mary’s and No. 10 Vanderbilt in the second round. If the Commodores win, it’ll be an all-SEC matchup for the Sweet 16.
March Madness 2025: Grant Nelson Returns to Help No. 2 Alabama Avoid No. 15 Robert Morris’ Upset Bid
As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament unfolded, the excitement of March Madness captivated fans across the country. The annual spectacle, known for its potential for upsets and heartbreak, was back in full swing, and it came with high stakes for the second-seeded Alabama Crimson Tide. Their first-round matchup against the No. 15 seed Robert Morris Colonials was poised for an upset, especially with the late-season return of star player Grant Nelson. Nelson’s comeback not only added an extra layer of tension to the contest but also showcased the resilience of a program determined to make a deep tournament run.
The Anticipation
Before the tournament began, analysts speculated about potential Cinderella stories, and Robert Morris emerged as a team to watch. Their scrappy performance in the Northeast Conference had caught the attention of many, and they entered the tournament with a chip on their shoulder. Meanwhile, Alabama, coming off a strong season with impressive showings in the Southeastern Conference, was looking to cement its status as a national contender. The return of Grant Nelson, who had been sidelined for much of the season with an injury, added to the Crimson Tide’s already potent lineup.
Nelson became a household name during his freshman season, earning All-American honors and establishing himself as one of college basketball’s most versatile big men. His ability to stretch the floor with a reliable three-point shot while also dominating in the paint made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. However, his absence had left a void that was felt keenly as Alabama struggled against physical teams in the SEC. With the NCAA Tournament looming, his return couldn’t have come at a better time.
Game Day: A Clash of Styles
The mismatch of talent and experience nearly became a reality as the game began. Alabama entered the contest as heavy favorites, but Robert Morris came out swinging, displaying an energetic and tenacious style that caught the Crimson Tide off guard. The Colonials’ defensive intensity and fluid ball movement led to early scoring opportunities, taking a shocking lead within the first few minutes of play.
Alabama found itself on the back foot, but the returning Grant Nelson embodied the spirit of resilience. Despite having limited minutes early in the game, his impact was profound. Nelson quickly rattled off a couple of baskets, integrating himself into the flow of Alabama’s offense and providing leadership on the court. His presence alone shifted the momentum in Alabama’s favor, offering a much-needed boost to the morale of the team.
Yet Robert Morris didn’t back down. They continued to press and exploit any defensive lapse, leading at halftime 38-33. As the second half began, tension hung thick in the air. Alabama’s fanbase grew anxious, aware that history was littered with 15-seed victories over 2-seeds. The thought of yet another upset hung over the arena like a dark cloud.
Nelson’s Dominance
Recognizing the urgency, Alabama head coach Nate Oats adjusted the game plan in the second half. The emphasis was clear: feed the ball to Nelson. His size and skill allowed him to command attention in the paint, and the Crimson Tide began to execute their offense through him, culminating in a series of orchestrated plays where Nelson became the focal point.
As the half progressed, Nelson’s effect on the game was palpable. He scored down low, collapsed defenses, and facilitated open looks for teammates. Within minutes, Alabama closed the gap and regained the lead. Nelson’s defensive rebounding also became critical, as he stifled Robert Morris’s second-chance opportunities, a vital aspect that had kept the Colonials in the game.
With just under ten minutes left, the contest was tied. Nelson took control, scoring eight straight points and igniting a crucial 12-0 run for Alabama. The crowd erupted, and with each point, the aura of confidence grew around the crimson-clad players. The tides had turned, and it was clear that Alabama would not be the victim of a historic upset.
The Final Minutes
As the clock dwindled down, Robert Morris fought valiantly to stay within striking distance. Their composure was commendable, as they took calculated shots and continued to hustle tirelessly. However, Nelson’s forceful presence kept the Crimson Tide ahead.
With just under two minutes remaining, Alabama led 67-60. A pivotal three-pointer from a teammate off a Nelson assist underscored the notion that the Crimson Tide were not just reliant on their star player but were ready to rise as a cohesive unit. Robert Morris’s attempts to rally failed, and Alabama sealed the 71-66 victory, showcasing their resolve against adversity.
Conclusion: A Sweet Taste of Victory
As the final buzzer sounded, the relief was palpable for Alabama fans. Grant Nelson’s return had been nothing short of a game-changer, proving invaluable to the team’s success in a tournament notorious for surprises. While both teams left the court with their heads held high, Alabama learned that even amidst a mismatch on paper, the heart and hustle of basketball often tell the real story. With their sights set on the rest of the tournament, the Crimson Tide knew that they had not only escaped one upset bid but emerged stronger and more united in their quest for national glory. March Madness had proven once again that anything is possible in the heart-pounding world of college basketball.
In a thrilling matchup during March Madness 2025, the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide faced off against the No. 15 Robert Morris Colonials. Grant Nelson, a standout player for Alabama, played a pivotal role in ensuring his team’s advancement in the tournament.
From the opening tip-off, the game was intense, with Robert Morris looking to pull off a historic upset. They came out strong, displaying a determined offense and tenacious defense. However, Nelson quickly made his presence felt, showcasing his versatility both on the offensive and defensive ends of the court. His ability to score from the perimeter and finish at the rim kept Alabama in the game during the early stages.
As the first half unfolded, Alabama’s experience and depth began to shine through. Nelson’s leadership was evident as he not only contributed points but also facilitated plays for his teammates. By halftime, the Crimson Tide had established a slight lead, but the game remained tightly contested.
In the second half, the intensity ramped up. Robert Morris fought valiantly, with their players exhibiting resilience and tenacity. However, Nelson continued to assert his dominance, making crucial plays that extended Alabama’s lead at key moments. His defensive efforts also disrupted Robert Morris’ rhythm, forcing turnovers and converting them into fast-break points.
As the clock wound down, Alabama maintained control, thanks in part to Nelson’s stellar performance. The Crimson Tide ultimately secured the win, overcoming the challenges posed by the lower-seeded Colonials and advancing in the tournament. This game was a testament to Alabama’s grit and Nelson’s critical role as they continued their quest for the championship.