Zip Em Up vs. Sweet Home Alabama: Veteran Composure Secures Round of 64 Victory

Photos: Jonathan Sepchinski

2022 TBT Regional – Round of 64

Tournament basketball rewards composure.

Zip Em Up entered with structure — spacing, pace control, and veteran decision-making. Sweet Home Alabama brought athleticism and an aggressive defensive posture, looking to disrupt rhythm early.

The opening stretch featured defensive pressure on both ends. Sweet Home Alabama forced turnovers and attacked in transition, while Zip Em Up slowed the game and executed in the half-court.

The pivotal stretch came late in the second half when Zip Em Up’s perimeter shooting stretched the floor. Ball reversals created open lanes, and smart shot selection widened the margin.

Sweet Home Alabama made a late push behind energy plays and second-chance opportunities, trimming the deficit just before the Elam Ending target.

But once the finish line was set, experience showed. Zip Em Up’s spacing and ball security carried them through the final possessions.

In a bracket where margins are thin, poise can be the loudest advantage.