Alabama and Auburn Meet in Historic Preseason Exhibition Game
The Crimson Tide and Tigers face off at Legacy Arena in Birmingham for their first-ever exhibition matchup.
The No. 18 Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn Tigers are set to clash in a historic exhibition basketball game at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT, with fans able to watch the action for free via Knight Eady's YouTube page.
This contest marks the first time these two fierce in-state rivals will meet in an exhibition setting. Entering the matchup, Alabama holds two exhibition victories this season, including a 92-84 win over Ole Miss. Meanwhile, Auburn is looking to regroup following an 82-71 loss to Florida State.
For Alabama, head coach Nate Oats' primary focus centers on improving ball security. The Crimson Tide committed 20 turnovers in their victory over Ole Miss, which translated into 23 points for the Rebels. Maintaining offensive rhythm while cutting down on giveaways will be a critical objective.
The Crimson Tide enter the exhibition dealing with notable roster absences. The team will play without star guard Aden Holloway, who is serving the final games of his suspension. Furthermore, Alabama must adapt to life after losing leading scorer Labaron Philon Jr., who was selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft following a 25-10 campaign that reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
Auburn presents a stern test through its experienced backcourt featuring guards Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton. Pettiford averaged 15.4 points and 3.8 assists last season, while Overton contributed 14.1 points per game and sank 95 three-pointers. Despite an 82-71 setback against Florida State where the duo struggled with efficiency, Auburn remains dangerous from deep. The Tigers are looking to bounce back after winning the NIT championship last season following a rare miss from the NCAA Tournament.
Rebounding could provide a distinct advantage for Alabama, which dominated the glass against Ole Miss with a 45-28 rebounding margin, powered by Boise State transfer Drew Fielder's double-double. Size is a distinct asset for the Crimson Tide, with 12 players standing at least 6-foot-6. Conversely, Auburn struggled on the boards against Florida State and continues to navigate the absence of Creighton transfer Owen Freeman, who is recovering from a summer foot injury.
Last season, Alabama swept both matchups against Auburn. As the Tigers attempt to alter that narrative tonight, both programs will use this high-profile exhibition to fine-tune their rotations ahead of the regular season.