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March Madness 2025 kicked off in spectacular fashion, thanks to an unforgettable moment from Alabama State. In a thrilling First Four matchup, the Hornets secured their first-ever NCAA tournament victory in program history, all thanks to a jaw-dropping play that will forever be remembered as the Amarr Knox Hail Mary.
The Amarr Knox Hail Mary: A Play for the Ages
With just seconds left on the clock and the game tied at 68-68, Alabama State found themselves in a do-or-die situation. St. Francis, their opponent, had just drained back-to-back three-pointers to erase a narrow deficit, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. That’s when Amarr Knox stepped up and delivered a moment that will be etched in NCAA tournament lore.
Micah Simpson, the Hornets’ guard, launched a football-style pass from near half-court. The ball sailed through the air, landing perfectly in the hands of Knox, who tipped it in for a game-winning layup as the buzzer sounded. The crowd erupted as Alabama State took a 70-68 lead, securing their first NCAA tournament win in program history.
Amarr Knox’s Heroics Lead Alabama State to Victory
Knox wasn’t just the hero of the final play—he was the standout performer throughout the game. The sophomore guard finished with a team-high 16 points on 8-of-15 shooting, showcasing his clutch ability when it mattered most. His composure under pressure and ability to deliver in the biggest moment of his career cemented his place in Alabama State basketball history.
The game itself was a rollercoaster. St. Francis had dominated for long stretches, holding a lead for most of the contest. However, their offense faltered in the second half, allowing Alabama State to claw their way back into the game. Both teams were making their first NCAA tournament appearance in over a decade—Alabama State since 2011 and St. Francis since 1991—adding even more weight to the historic moment.
Why the Amarr Knox Hail Mary Will Be Remembered Forever
Tuesday night’s game will go down as one of the most iconic moments in Alabama State basketball history. The Amarr Knox Hail Mary wasn’t just a game-winning shot; it was a symbol of perseverance, teamwork, and the magic of March Madness. The Hornets’ victory was a testament to their resilience and ability to seize the moment when it mattered most.
The reward for their historic win? A date with the No. 1 overall seed, Auburn, in the next round. While the challenge ahead is daunting, Alabama State and their fans will forever cherish the memory of the Amarr Knox Hail Mary—a play that defined the opening act of March Madness 2025.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Alabama State?
As the Hornets prepare to face Auburn, the spotlight remains firmly on Amarr Knox and his legendary game-winning shot. Whether or not Alabama State can pull off another upset remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Amarr Knox Hail Mary has already secured its place in NCAA tournament history.
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