A historic reunion on the hardwood
Alabama’s men’s basketball program has locked in a 2026‑27 non‑conference matchup with Samford, a meeting that will mark the first time the two schools have played since 2010. The Crimson Tide will host the Bulldogs at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, promising a nostalgic return for fans who remember the 79‑60 victory the Tide posted a decade ago.
Samford arrived at the upcoming season after a 18‑14 record in 2025‑26 under head coach Lennie Acuff. The Bulldogs’ recent performance underscores their competitiveness, setting the stage for a fresh chapter in the series.
The Crimson Tide’s broader slate features contests against Sam Houston, Seton Hall, Kennesaw State, Baylor, a showdown labeled Gonzaga/Kansas State, Miami, St. John’s, Iowa and Houston. These games will be staged across a variety of venues, including Las Vegas, Nevada; Des Moines, Iowa; and Miami, Florida, adding geographic diversity to the schedule.
Athletic director Rocco Miller emphasized that the mix of regional rivals and national powerhouses is designed to test the team early and sharpen its résumé ahead of conference play. The upcoming season thus blends tradition with ambition, as Alabama seeks to extend its legacy while embracing new challenges.