Alabama’s Basketball Rivalry Reaches New Heights as Saban Weighs In
Alabama has long been known as a football powerhouse, but in recent years, the state’s college basketball scene has surged to national prominence. With Bruce Pearl turning Auburn into a perennial contender and Nate Oats leading Alabama to a Final Four, hoops fever is alive and well in the Heart of Dixie.
That excitement was on full display Saturday in Tuscaloosa, as No. 1 Auburn clashed with No. 2 Alabama in a showdown between the sport’s top teams.
While legendary Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban built his legacy on the gridiron, he recognizes the intensity of this hardwood rivalry. Speaking on ESPN’s College GameDay, Saban put it simply:
“In Alabama, it’s not about pink or blue when you’re born—it’s about Auburn or Alabama. That’s what makes this rivalry so special. The atmosphere is always electric, and I’m sure this game will be no different. But in the end, it’s all about bragging rights in this state.”
Alabama enters the game riding a seven-game win streak with a 21-3 record, while Auburn sits at 20-2 after rebounding from a recent loss to Florida.
Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. EST at Coleman Coliseum, where the battle for in-state supremacy will take center stage.
