Saint Mary’s vs. Alabama Picks and Prediction – 3/23/2025

No. 7 Saint Mary’s Gaels (29-5, 14-2 WCC) vs. No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide (26-8, 16-2 SEC)
Time: 6:10 PM
Location: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH

Previous Games:
Saint Mary’s: 59-56 win over Vanderbilt in the first round of the NCAA Tournament
Alabama: 90-81 win over Robert Morris in the first round of the NCAA Tournament

Key Stats & Trends:
Alabama is averaging 91.1 points per game this season and has been on an offensive tear lately
Saint Mary’s has been struggling offensively, averaging 63.2 points per game over their last five

Saint Mary’s Breakdown:
Saint Mary’s enters this game after a hard-fought victory over Vanderbilt. While their offense has been inconsistent, their defense remains a strong suit. Augustas Marciulionis leads the team in scoring, and Paulius Murauskas has been key on the boards. Saint Mary’s will need to lean heavily on their defense and limit Alabama’s fast-paced offense if they are to have a chance in this matchup.

Alabama Breakdown:
Alabama has been firing on all cylinders offensively, led by Mark Sears, who contributes 18.7 points per game. The Crimson Tide’s high-scoring offense has been their key strength, averaging 91.1 points per game this season. Alabama’s depth and scoring ability make them a dangerous team, and their offense will be tough for Saint Mary’s to contain.

Exact Score Prediction:
Alabama 80 - Saint Mary’s 73

Our Best Bet:
Alabama -5.5 @ -110