- CJ Hines leads with 15 points and 5 assists in crucial SWAC semifinal victory
- TJ Madlock's clutch free throws secure 64-58 lead with 56 seconds remaining
- Tyler Mack perfect from three-point range, contributing 12 critical points
- Kintavious Dozier's 20-point effort not enough for Grambling's comeback bid
In a heart-pounding SWAC Tournament semifinal clash, Alabama State edged Grambling 64-62 in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. CJ Hines emerged as the catalyst, scoring 15 points while dishing out five assists. His leadership in the backcourt proved vital as the Hornets overcame a halftime deficit to clinch their championship berth.
Trailing 36-33 at halftime, Alabama State unleashed a 13-2 run in the second half to seize control. Tyler Mack’s flawless shooting from beyond the arc (4-for-4) provided a spark, while TJ Madlock’s ice-cold free throws with under a minute left stretched the lead to six. Grambling’s Kintavious Dozier fought valiantly with 20 points, but the Tigers fell short in their final possessions.
Regional Impact: The tournament’s College Park venue drew thousands of fans, boosting local businesses by 18% compared to regular-season games. Hotels near State Farm Arena reported 92% occupancy, highlighting the economic ripple effect of SWAC events.
Alabama State’s defensive adjustments after halftime limited Grambling to just 34% shooting in the final 10 minutes. Freshman guard Malik Short provided unexpected energy off the bench, grabbing three rebounds in critical transition stops. This depth could prove crucial in the championship against Southern University.
Historically, SWAC semifinal winners have gone on to claim the title 68% of the time since 2010. With Hines’ poise under pressure and Mack’s sharpshooting, the Hornets appear positioned to defy underdog narratives. Coach Tony Madlock emphasized postgame, 'These players thrive when every possession matters—that’s March basketball.'