Last year, Iona was an incredible tournament team. They were the nine seed in the MAAC tournament, but they took out the number one seed and made it to the NCAA tournament. As a result, they played Alabama in the first round. They hung around in that game but were unable to pull off the upset. With added motivation, this season, Iona shocked Alabama 72-68.
Iona Shocked Alabama in Tourney Rematch
Last night, the Gaels had four of their five starters in double figures using a complete team effort to pull off the upset. In addition, Iona got 15 points from Walter Clayton Jr.; this bench production made them more challenging to defend. Despite trailing 33-29 at the half, Iona came back to win the game. Alabama was up by six on three different occasions in the second half, but they could not hold the lead. Iona grabbed their first lead of the half, 59-57, with 5:34 to go. The game was close the rest of the way, but the Gaels never let the lead change hands again. Iona hit clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the deal, including two from star Nelly Junior Joseph.
What Does This Result Mean for Alabama?
For the Crimson Tide, this loss is a significant setback. Alabama was the number ten team in the nation when Iona shocked them. The Tide has high expectations for this team thanks to the return of Jahvon Quinerly and Keon Ellis. These two upperclassmen are supposed to lead them to greatness. Luckily for Alabama, they have many opportunities left on their schedule, including Gonzaga, Houston, and Memphis. The Tide will need a win or two in these three games to recover from this debacle in Orlando. In addition, they must improve their free-throw shooting; they only shot 52% in the Iona game. Without significant improvements in this area, the Tide will struggle in close games.
What Does This Win Mean for Iona?
For the Gaels, shocking the number ten team in the nation is a program-defining victory that will enhance their resume come March. Iona is 6-0 and already has a win over Liberty, who made the tournament last season. They have more opportunities in this tournament against Belmont and maybe Kansas to get even more quality wins. Additionally, they will play Seton Hall in December, which is another chance at a top 25 victory. The Gaels are the favorite in the MAAC this season, but now they may not have to win the conference thanks to their excellent performance last night.
I am excited to see the rest of the season for both of these teams. Each one has a chance to succeed, but if Alabama does not fix their free-throw shooting, they will struggle in the SEC. Hopefully, the Tide can get it together and have a great season. For Iona, they can upset multiple power conference opponents in March and should not be overlooked.
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