A New Neutral‑Site Series
Alabama’s basketball program has locked in a two‑year neutral‑site series with Iowa, beginning with a showdown in Des Moines on Dec. 21.
The return match will take place in Mobile during the 2027‑28 season, completing the home‑and‑home arrangement.
Historic Matchups
The two schools have met only twice before, splitting the series with Alabama winning in 2006 and Iowa taking the victory in 2010.
Both programs arrived at the 2025‑26 campaign in strong shape, with Iowa advancing to the Elite Eight and Alabama reaching the Sweet Sixteen for the fourth straight year.
Roster Evolution
Alabama’s offseason has been marked by movement in the transfer portal, as four players departed and a fresh influx of talent arrived.
Among the newcomers, Amari Allen withdrew from the NBA Draft and is expected to anchor the 2026‑27 roster.
Coach Nate Oats will oversee a squad that also welcomes freshmen such as Aiden Sherrell and Jalil Bethea, while returning standouts like Labaron Philon Jr. and Latrell Wrightsell Jr. remain key pieces.
The nonconference slate for the 2026‑27 season is nearly set, leaving only a few openings to be filled.