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Ole Miss Shocks Alabama 80-79 in SEC Tournament

PUBLISHED Mar 14, 2026, 12:26 AM ET

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Nashville, Ole Miss defeated No. 2 Alabama 80-79 in the SEC Tournament quarterfinal on Friday night, eliminating the Crimson Tide after a game in Nashville. The 15-seed Rebels advanced after earlier wins over Texas and Georgia, shooting efficiently in the second half. Alabama's Labaron Philon scored 28 points, but his late shot was blocked with 5.8 seconds remaining. Ole Miss guard Ilias Kamardine scored 16 points and hit a late three as the shot clock expired. Alabama coach Nate Oats acknowledged missed adjustments, including not calling a timeout on the final possession. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Ole Miss defeated 10-seed Texas earlier in the SEC Tournament.
Ole Miss then upset 7-seed Georgia to reach the quarterfinals.
No. 2 Alabama, with a double-bye, met Ole Miss in the quarterfinal in Nashville.
Ole Miss beat Alabama 80-79; Labaron Philon scored 28 and Ilias Kamardine hit a key late three.
Postgame, coaches and players provided remarks; Alabama prepared for the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

News Intelligence

This game is a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement of college basketball. If you're a fan, it's worth keeping an eye on Ole Miss as they continue to upset higher-ranked teams. For Alabama supporters, it's a moment to regroup and refocus on the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

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Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

Ole Miss, its players and coach Chris Beard benefited from three consecutive tournament wins, advancing to the SEC semifinals and improving the program’s postseason positioning and national visibility.

Who Impacted

Alabama, its players and coach Nate Oats suffered an early SEC Tournament exit that eliminated the team from the conference bracket and raised scrutiny over late-game decisions ahead of the NCAA Tournament.

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