The Alabama State Hornets saw their NCAA Tournament run hit a rough patch on Thursday night, dropping a 21-3 decision to the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Four defensive miscues by the Hornets helped swing momentum, allowing the Crimson Tide to pull away early and never look back.
The loss marks the most lopsided defeat in Alabama State's five appearances in the tournament and ends an eight‑game winning streak that had included a SWAC Championship just days earlier. The Hornets entered the regional with confidence, but the early onslaught left them scrambling to regroup.
Offensively, the Hornets managed to answer with a two‑run homer from Miguel Oropeza in the third inning, but Alabama responded with a six‑run burst in the same frame, highlighted by a two‑run shot from Luke Vaughn. Additional runs came from Alex Espaillat’s error at second base and a sacrifice that added to the tally.
A Chance at Redemption
Coach Jose Vazquez, who has guided the team through the streak, remained upbeat after the game, emphasizing the importance of a good night’s rest and a fresh mindset for the upcoming elimination match against Oklahoma State. ‘We’ve got to shake this off, get back to work, and keep fighting,’ he said.
The Hornets are scheduled to meet Oklahoma State on Saturday, May 29, at 1 p.m. Central Time, a game that will determine whether their tournament hopes survive. With a roster that includes players like Breydon Divine and Jaeden Day, the team hopes to translate its regular‑season resilience into a comeback performance.