In a thrilling showdown on March 8, 2025, Grant Nelson of the Alabama Crimson Tide delivered one of the most dramatic moments of the college basketball season. During a heated matchup against their rival Auburn, Nelson not only made an incredible dunk but also revived the much-beloved ‘Crimson Crane’ celebration, leaving fans buzzing in the stands of Neville Arena.
Grant Nelson Put Dylan Cardwell on a POSTER…
It all started with a breathtaking dunk over Auburn’s Dylan Cardwell, a moment that instantly captured the attention of everyone watching. As Grant soared into the air, the crowd held its breath, and when he threw down the dunk, cheers erupted from Alabama fans. It was a statement play, showcasing his athleticism and skill at a critical juncture in the game. This dunk is sure to be remembered as one of the highlights of this intense rivalry.
Alabama’s Grant Nelson Does the ‘Crimson Crane’
After his powerful dunk, Nelson celebrated in style by striking the ‘Crimson Crane’ pose, a celebration that has become iconic among Alabama athletes. This celebratory gesture is known for its fun and competitive spirit and resonated strongly with the Alabama fans. Nearby, Auburn’s Johni Broome observed, perhaps feeling the sting of the moment as the atmosphere in the arena grew electric. Bruce Pearl, Auburn’s coach, even animatedly reenacted the pose to the referees, making it clear that he believed it should have been penalized. However, no taunting foul was called, allowing the celebratory moment to continue.
“That’s Taunting”
The aftermath of the celebration saw some brief tensions on the court. Auburn players and coaches vocally protested, arguing that Nelson’s actions could be viewed as taunting. Coach Pearl was seen expressing his displeasure to the referees, reminding everyone just how intense this rivalry is. Fans from both teams continued to react loudly, creating a buzzing atmosphere that added to the excitement of the game.
This Rivalry Heats Up
This game was not just any regular season match; it was a rematch following Auburn’s previous victory over Alabama. In the build-up to this clash, both teams were eager to assert dominance, especially after their respective recent struggles. Auburn was looking to maintain their position as SEC champions, while Alabama was desperate to shake off their two-game losing streak. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the players felt that pressure as the game unfolded, filled with intense basketball play and emotional moments.
A Great College Basketball Showdown
What makes games like these so memorable is not just the talent on display, but also the rich history of rivalry and competitiveness. As the final buzzer sounded, Auburn took the win, securing a 94-85 victory, but not without the highlight of Nelson’s dunk echoing through the minds of fans and players alike. This rivalry adds layers of excitement and drama to college basketball, and Nelson’s contributions will certainly be etched into its storied legacy.
What’s Next for Alabama and Auburn?
As Alabama looks to bounce back from this latest loss, both teams have their eyes set on the upcoming SEC Tournament. Alabama is eager to turn things around and hope for a chance at redemption, while Auburn, having secured their top seed, will aim to carry the momentum from this win into the tournament. The rivalry continues to evolve, setting the stage for thrilling basketball moments in the future.
