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Roll Tide Wire staff predictions for Alabama vs. Robert Morris first round matchup

Roll Tide Wire staff predictions for Alabama vs. Robert Morris first round matchup

USA Today21-03-2025

Roll Tide Wire staff predictions for Alabama vs. Robert Morris first round matchup
After making the program's first-ever Final Four appearance a year ago, the Alabama Crimson Tide begin their hunt for yet another national semifinal trip Friday afternoon with the first round of the 2025 men's NCAA Tournament.
On Friday, Alabama will be matched up against the Robert Morris Colonials in the first round of the East Region, an opponent who won both the Horizon League regular season and tournament championships during the 2024-25 season.
Even despite that however, Alabama is still a big favorite going into Friday's matchup, with the Crimson Tide likely expected by most to cruise to a win. However, how do we see this matchup playing out?
Here is a look at who every member of our Roll Tide Wire staff has winning the NCAA Tournament first round game between Alabama and Robert Morris on Friday afternoon.
Matt's Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 89, Robert Morris Colonials 70
While the storyline dominating talk surrounding the Crimson Tide going into this matchup is the availability of Grant Nelson, Alabama honestly might not even need the star forward Friday afternoon to still come away with a win. The Crimson Tide should pull away offensively, setting up a date with either Saint Mary's or Vanderbilt on Sunday in the round of 32.
Steve's Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 92, Robert Morris Colonials 70
Alabama shouldn't need a healthy Grant Nelson for this game. The Tide beat Horizon League champions to move on to the round of 32.
Sam's Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 95, Robert Morris Colonials 70
After a gauntlet of a schedule to close out the regular season, a first round match up against Robert Morris should be a bit of relief for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Grant Nelson's health will be the Crimson Tide's most pressing matter on Friday. March is when the best players are made, and this is when Mark Sears starts to rise to the occasion. It'll be a fun ride.

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