BY: Randy Dunn
As Alabama’s Crimson Tide continued to roll through March Madness, they gained experience and confidence even though the odds were against them nightly. When playing against the Iona Gaels on March 20, the Tide continued its hot streak of dominance. SEC Player of the Year Herb Jones gave the Tide another miraculous performance with 20 PTS, 6 RBS, and 2 AST.
With Alabama shooting nearly 50% from the floor at 42.7%, it was a long night defensively for Iona. They had a rough night, shooting only 39% from the floor. Although Bama was hot all year from three-point land, they were ice cold during this game, shooting only 31.3% and struggling from the free throw line with only 13 of 23 attempts (56.5%).
The Tide fought hard defensively and out-rebounded the Gaels 42 to 26, which gave them extra opportunities and second-chance points. The Tide ended this night beating Iona 68-55, which advanced them to the second round of the NCAA tournament to face The Maryland Terps.