Mark Sears has already established himself as one of the greatest players in Alabama basketball history, regardless of how the 2025 NCAA Tournament unfolds. Last year, he played a pivotal role in Alabama’s historic run to the Final Four, marking the program’s first-ever appearance at that stage.
While he won’t win National Player of the Year honors, despite being a preseason favorite, Sears still made history by becoming just the second 1st-team All-American in Alabama’s history, joining his former teammate Brandon Miller.
During his three years at Alabama, Sears has contributed significantly to the program’s unprecedented achievements. Two years ago, he was part of the team that claimed the SEC regular season and tournament championships, while also earning the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament—Alabama’s first-ever No. 1 seed. Last year, he led the team on an inspiring journey to the Final Four.
This year, Sears helped guide the Crimson Tide to a 2-seed in the NCAA Tournament. He also delivered one of the most memorable moments in Alabama basketball history with a clutch buzzer-beater, a free throw line floater that sealed the win against Robert Morris in the first round.
With Alabama’s 90-81 victory over Robert Morris in the opening round of the tournament, Sears now holds the record for most NCAA Tournament wins by any player in Crimson Tide history. This victory marked his seventh NCAA Tournament win, bringing his March Madness record to 7-2.
The big question now is whether Sears can add one more magical postseason run to his storied career. Whenever Alabama’s tournament run ends, so will his time at Tuscaloosa, and although he has already etched his name in history, both the fans and Sears himself are hoping for one last deep tournament run.
Up next for Alabama is a match against 7-seeded Saint Mary’s in the second round of the tournament. A win would send them to the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive year, which would be only the second time in program history they’ve achieved this feat—matching the accomplishment of Wimp Sanderson’s teams from 1985 to 1987.
In Alabama’s win over Robert Morris, Sears had a quiet first half, scoring just three points. However, in the second half, he took control, scoring 19 points and finishing with a double-double—22 points and 10 assists—helping lead the team to a nine-point victory.
For Alabama to have a chance at another deep March Madness run, they will need Sears to perform at his best, starting with getting through the second round.