Jobaaj Stories
St. Francis Red Flash Stunned in NCAA Tournament Buzzer-Beater
The 2025 NCAA Tournament kicked off with a bang! Alabama State's Hornets, a No. 16 seed, pulled off a stunning upset against the Saint Francis (PA) Red Flash, also a No. 16 seed, in a nail-biting First Four matchup. Amarr Knox's buzzer-beating layup secured a 70-68 victory and sent shockwaves through the tournament bracket. This article details the thrilling game and its aftermath.
A Game for the Ages
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing impressive skills. Saint Francis, led by Juan Cranford Jr.'s 18 points and Valentino Pinedo's 17, held a lead for much of the game. However, Alabama State, fueled by Knox's 16 points and strong team rebounding (35-33 advantage), clawed their way back. With the score tied and mere seconds left, a perfectly executed inbounds play resulted in the ball finding Knox for the game-winning shot.
Hornets Soar, Red Flash Fall Short
Alabama State's victory marks their first-ever NCAA Tournament win. Their impressive comeback and Knox's clutch performance highlight the Hornets' resilience and determination. Meanwhile, Saint Francis, despite a commendable season culminating in a Northeast Conference championship, saw their run end in heartbreaking fashion. The Red Flash's strong offensive showing, particularly Cranford Jr.'s and Pinedo's contributions, couldn't quite overcome Alabama State's final surge.
What's Next?
Alabama State now faces the top-seeded Auburn Tigers in the next round. This matchup promises to be a challenging but exciting opportunity for the Hornets. For Saint Francis, the focus shifts to evaluating the season and building for future success. Their impressive run, despite the final outcome, will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for continued growth and development within the program.
