The theme of the day in college basketball on a bustling Saturday was all about impressive comeback performances. After experiencing consecutive losses for the first time this season, No. 4 Alabama faced No. 17 Kentucky in a critical matchup. The Crimson Tide bounced back with a 96-83 victory, led by the remarkable play of Mark Sears.

Following a season-high 35-point effort against Missouri, the fifth-year guard scored 30 points against Kentucky, showcasing his leadership in this pivotal game. Meanwhile, No. 9 Texas Tech also had a standout moment with JT Toppin contributing significantly during their 73-51 win over West Virginia, bouncing back from their earlier defeat at TCU.

Toppin, a sophomore forward, solidified his claim for Big 12 Player of the Year with this solid performance. In another notable game, No. 23 Kansas rebounded significantly from a tough midweek loss, dominating Oklahoma State with a 96-64 scoreline, spearheaded by Hunter Dickinson, who achieved 16 points and 11 rebounds in just 21 minutes.

Alabama starts slow vs. Kentucky, but Mark Sears sparks No. 4 Crimson Tide to regular-season sweep of Wildcats

by Cameron Salerno

This Saturday served as a showcase for several remarkable performances as we approach the excitement of March Madness. Here’s a look at the day’s key winners and losers.

Winner: BYU Upsets Arizona Thanks to Controversial Foul

BYU emerged as one of the weekend’s standout teams, pulling off an upset over No. 19 Arizona. After a contentious foul was called against Arizona, Cougars guard Richie Saunders calmly converted two free throws in the final seconds, sealing a 96-95 victory. This marks BYU’s first back-to-back wins against ranked opponents since 1988. The Cougars are on a hot streak, winning eight out of their last ten and avenging their earlier loss to Arizona. Coach Kevin Young’s squad looks strong heading into March. — Cameron Salerno

Winner: Chaz Lanier Shines for Tennessee

Tennessee guard Chaz Lanier delivered a career-best performance, scoring 30 points and hitting a record eight three-pointers in a 77-69 win against No. 7 Texas A&M. This was a strong rebound for Lanier after a previous game where he struggled against Texas. It was his 11th game scoring at least 20 points this season, contributing to the Vols’ success. — Kyle Boone

Loser: Kentucky Struggles Without Key Guards

The absence of injured guards Lamont Butler and Jaxson Robinson severely impacted No. 17 Kentucky as they faced No. 4 Alabama. The Crimson Tide secured the victory with a noticeable lead in fast-break points, emerging victorious 96-83. Though four Wildcats starters scored in double figures, shooting guard Otega Oweh had a lackluster game with only two points. Kentucky needed Oweh at his peak performance, especially against a top-tier opponent on the road. — David Cobb

No. 5 Houston narrowly avoided a slip against No. 8 Iowa State, relying on a stellar performance from LJ Cryer, who scored 28 points. Houston held on for a 68-59 victory, maintaining their position as a strong contender. — Cobb

Loser: Kansas Dominates Oklahoma State

No. 23 Kansas rebounded from a heavy loss against BYU, taking down Oklahoma State 96-64. This impressive victory highlighted Kansas’ ability to recover and was significant as they look to solidify their position in the NCAA Tournament. Conversely, Oklahoma State continues to struggle, suffering from back-to-back losses. — Boone

Winner: Oregon Stuns Wisconsin

Oregon made headlines by clinching their 15th consecutive season with 20 wins or more by defeating No. 11 Wisconsin 77-73 in overtime. Trailing by 17 points, the Ducks rallied back, with Jackson Shelstad hitting a crucial three-pointer to force overtime and then sealing the game in the extra period. It’s a remarkable achievement for Oregon’s coach Dana Altman. — Boone

No. 1 seed North Carolina found a vital win against Virginia, maintaining their position in the NCAA Tournament bubble with an 81-66 victory. This win was crucial as they approach a decisive game against No. 3 Duke. — Cobb

Loser: Texas Loses to South Carolina

In a surprising turn of events, South Carolina secured their first SEC win by defeating Texas 84-69, which adds pressure on Texas’ NCAA Tournament hopes. This loss represents a significant setback as they must now muster their performance for the remainder of the season. — Salerno

Winner: Jeremiah Fears Steers Oklahoma to Victory

Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears bounced back, leading his team with 27 points and 10 assists in a critical 93-87 victory over No. 21 Mississippi State. This impressive double-double was essential as Oklahoma finds itself fighting for better positioning in the tournament bracket. — Cobb

Loser: Wake Forest’s Tournament Hopes Dwindle

Wake Forest faced a setback in their quest for the NCAA Tournament, succumbing to NC State with an 85-73 loss. This Quad 2 defeat raises concerns about their chances as they conclude the season. — Salerno

Winner: JT Toppin Continues to Impress for Texas Tech

JT Toppin produced yet another outstanding performance as No. 9 Texas Tech defeated West Virginia 73-51. Adding 22 points and eight rebounds, including critical three-pointers late in the game, Toppin’s emergence strengthens his claim for Big 12 Player of the Year. — Cobb

Loser: Baylor Loses to Colorado

Baylor struggled against Colorado, suffering a 76-74 defeat after previously holding a position in the upper tier of the standings. This surprising loss raises questions about their prospects for a higher seed this Selection Sunday. — Salerno

Winner: High Point Claims Big South Title

High Point secured a share of the Big South title after a decisive win over Gardner-Webb. With an impressive 90-67 victory, coach Alan Huss continues his successful tenure with the Panthers. — Cobb