During a thrilling basketball game on Saturday, Alabama’s Grant Nelson brought back the popular “Crimson Crane” celebration, captivating fans and sparking the rivalry between Alabama and Auburn. The celebration, which first gained fame during Alabama’s football season, has become a hot topic in college basketball as well.
Grant Nelson Shines in Rivalry Game
Nelson performed the iconic celebration after drawing a foul on Auburn player Johni Broome. As he made his way to the free-throw line, the crowd erupted in delight, cheering for their star player. This moment wasn’t just a play on the court; it also showcased the spirit of competition between these two fierce rivals known for their long-standing history.
The Origin of the Crimson Crane Celebration
The “Crimson Crane” started when Alabama football players used it in 2022, and it quickly became a trademark move for Crimson Tide athletes. It’s fun and playful, and it shows the confidence and energy of the players. Following a February win over Alabama, Auburn players began adopting the celebration, adding further intensity to the rivalry.
Auburn’s Reaction to the Celebration
After Nelson’s dunk over Auburn’s Dylan Cardwell, which led to the celebration, tensions flared. Some Auburn players and coaches voiced their disapproval over what they felt was a lack of a proper foul call on Nelson and protested vigorously during official reviews. Even Johni Broome joined in on the fun, mimicking the celebration out of frustration. These interactions illustrated just how serious the competition is between these two teams.
A Close Matchup and Future Games
Alabama is keen on securing their first win against Auburn since January 2024, and their first road victory since February 2023. Tensions ran high throughout the game as both teams battled for pride in this intense rivalry. For Alabama, every game counts, especially with crucial matchups coming against top teams.
Grant Nelson’s Journey This Season
This season has been quite a journey for Nelson. Recently, he was removed from the injury report and is set to play against Florida on Tuesday after struggling to maintain his top performance due to health issues. With averages of 11.8 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, fans are hopeful that his return could be the boost Alabama needs in these decisive final games.
What’s Next for Alabama?
As Alabama faces off against Florida next, the stakes are high. A win in this game can keep the Crimson Tide in contention for a high seed in the NCAA tournament. The rivalry against Auburn and recent performances set the stage for exciting basketball as the season draws to a close.
| Game Information | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama vs. Auburn | March 8, 2025 | Neville Arena, Auburn |
| Alabama vs. Florida | Upcoming Tuesday | TBA |
