Alabama State Wins First Basketball Tournament Title Since 2011

The 2024–25 season marked a historic chapter for the Alabama State University (ASU) Hornets men’s basketball team. Under the leadership of third-year head coach Tony Madlock, the Hornets achieved a 20–16 overall record and a 12–6 mark in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play. This performance secured them the fifth seed in the SWAC tournament

In the SWAC tournament, Alabama State demonstrated resilience and determination. They began by defeating fourth-seeded Texas Southern 84–79 in the quarterfinals. The momentum continued with a narrow 64–62 victory over eighth-seeded Grambling State in the semifinals. The championship game saw the Hornets facing second-seeded Jackson State. Led by CJ Hines’ 20 points and TJ Madlock’s 12 rebounds, Alabama State clinched a 60–56 win, earning their first SWAC tournament title since 2011 and an automatic berth to the NCAA tournament. ​

Entering the NCAA tournament as a No. 16 seed, the Hornets faced Saint Francis (PA) in the First Four. The game culminated in a dramatic finish: with the score tied at 68 and just 3.4 seconds remaining, Micah Simpson launched an 85-foot pass that, after being tipped, landed in the hands of Amarr Knox. Knox converted the layup with 0.7 seconds left, securing a 70–68 victory and marking Alabama State’s first-ever NCAA tournament win. ​

Advancing to the Round of 64, the Hornets faced the tournament’s top overall seed, Auburn. Despite a valiant effort and keeping the game competitive into the second half, Alabama State fell 83–63, concluding their remarkable postseason run. Senior guard Amarr Knox led the team with 18 points in this matchup.

Reflecting on the season, Coach Madlock expressed immense pride in his team’s accomplishments, emphasizing the significance of their success for an HBCU program. The Hornets’ journey not only brought national attention to Alabama State University but also underscored the competitive spirit and talent present within the SWAC.