Here’s the scoop on Alabama’s electric OT victory over Auburn—highlighted by a jaw‑dropping dunk and cheeky celebration from Grant Nelson:
🏀 Game Recap: Nelson’s Poster Dunk and “Crimson Crane” Celebration
During a high‑voltage overtime showdown at Neville Arena, Grant Nelson of Alabama slammed down a vicious poster dunk over Auburn’s Dylan Cardwell midway through the first half—sparking wild energy in the crowd .
But Nelson didn’t stop there. Immediately after the dunk, he struck a bold “Crimson Crane” pose—an homage to The Karate Kid, channeling Ralph Macchio’s legendary crane kick—to taunt Auburn forward Johni Broome .
Grant Nelson put Dylan Cardwell on a POSTER… And then hit the Crimson Crane in Johni Broome’s face!”
Twitter reaction tracking the moment
The confrontation drew Osh’s attention. Auburn’s coach Bruce Pearl vehemently argued it was taunting and should have drawn an upgraded foul—but replay review upheld the calls on the court, allowing Alabama to keep the momentum .
The Context: A Rivalry Renewed
This intense matchup was a do‑over from February’s Iron Bowl of Basketball, where Auburn secured a 94‑85 win on Alabama soil. At the time, Auburn held the SEC regular‑season crown and the top seed in the conference tournament .
But on March 8, 2025, #7 Alabama avenged that loss with a dramatic 93‑91 overtime thriller. Mark Sears sealed the deal with a clutch 15‑foot jumper at the buzzer—marking the first time in series history that the road team won both encounters in a season .
Nelson’s dunk and signature celebration became the emotional core of a game that reprised the storied rivalry under a whole new level of intensity.
What Is the “Crimson Crane”?
The “Crimson Crane” celebration mirrors the iconic crane kick stance from the movie The Karate Kid, made famous by Ralph Macchio. The pose has become a favorite celebratory taunt in Alabama athletics, especially during high-stakes moments .
Nelson’s usage of it—right in Broome’s direction—added fuel to the already heated in‑arena atmosphere.
Coach & Reactions
Bruce Pearl was visibly upset, reenacting the celebration while arguing to refs that it should have warranted a taunting foul—but replay didn’t support his case .
Nate Oats emphasized the team’s need for focus and discipline: Auburn’s roster is strong, so Alabama had to avoid sloppy play and capitalize on energy-boosting moments like Nelson’s highlight dunk .
Final Score
Teams Score
Alabama (#7) 93
Auburn (#1) 91 (OT)
With this thrilling victory, Alabama not only avenged an earlier loss but also sparked debate and celebration around Nelson’s audacious dunk and celebration.
Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of individual stats, post-game reactions, or clips of Nelson’s “Crimson Crane” moment!
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