Jahmai Mashack’s Buzzer-Beater Lifts Tennessee Over Alabama in Thrilling Finish

Jahmai Mashack delivered a stunning buzzer-beater to lift No. 5 Tennessee to a 79-76 victory over No. 6 Alabama. The thrilling finish came after Alabama turned the ball over due to a 5-second violation, missing a crucial opportunity to secure a win.

With the game tied and time winding down, Mashack capitalized on Tennessee’s final possession, sinking a 3-pointer as time expired. His clutch shot secured a significant win for the Volunteers and kept them in contention for a top NCAA tournament seed.

Alabama’s Costly Mistakes and Coaching Decisions Lead to Late-Game Collapse

Alabama had control with a 76-72 lead and only 36 seconds remaining, but crucial errors allowed Tennessee to claw back. Chaz Lanier’s layup and two free throws from Mashack tied the game, setting up a defensive stand by the Volunteers.

Alabama failed to inbound the ball before the 5-second violation, giving Tennessee possession. Despite having two timeouts remaining, the Crimson Tide did not use one, a decision that would prove costly. Their defensive lapse allowed Mashack an open shot, sealing their fate.

Following the game, Alabama head coach Nate Oats admitted his role in the final-minute breakdown. He acknowledged mismanaging substitutions, particularly removing his big men too early, which impacted their ability to secure a defensive rebound.

Oats also regretted not calling a timeout before the violation, recognizing that his decisions may have cost Alabama the game. His postgame remarks reflected frustration, as he stated, “I was not good over the last 30 seconds today. I feel like I failed these guys.”

Tennessee Strengthens Tournament Resume as Alabama Faces Uncertain Path to Top Seeding

The loss dealt a blow to Alabama’s hopes of securing a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament. While they are still in contention, teams like Auburn, Duke, Houston, and Florida have strengthened their bids for a top seed. Tennessee’s victory not only improved their record to 24-5 but also positioned them favorably among the tournament’s elite teams. Meanwhile, Alabama (23-6) now faces a crucial matchup against Florida that could determine their seeding position.

Mashack’s heroics capped an 11-point performance, with his final five points proving decisive. Chaz Lanier led Tennessee with 18 points, while Zakai Zeigler contributed 15. Alabama’s Mark Sears had a game-high 24 points, and Labaron Philon added 13 in the loss. Tennessee will visit Ole Miss next, while Alabama will host Florida in another critical SEC showdown. The defeat may linger for Alabama, but they still have opportunities to bounce back before the tournament.