The 2026 Ballin in Boutwell event will bring together the University of Alabama, Auburn University and Samford University basketball programs for a five‑game showcase at Birmingham’s historic Boutwell Auditorium, marking the first edition to include a youth basketball component.
A historic venue returns to the spotlight
Alabama’s men’s team is scheduled to open against Ole Miss on Oct. 15, while its women’s squad will face Alabama Huntsville (UAH). Auburn’s men will meet Florida State on Oct. 14, and the women’s team will take on Central Florida. Samford’s men’s team is set to play Alabama A&M on Oct. 13.
Beyond the high‑profile matchups, the tournament will host a youth basketball showcase, giving high school players a chance to compete in the same venue as the collegiate teams. Organizers say the expanded format reflects growing momentum for the event.
The partnership with Nike and Hibbett adds a commercial dimension, with Hibbett’s chief executive, Larry Vickers, praising the collaboration and the excitement surrounding the tournament’s debut.
Tickets are now on sale, giving fans the opportunity to attend the games and support local basketball initiatives.
Steven Pearl, a longtime figure in Alabama basketball, will be involved in the event’s production, alongside Larry Vickers and Jared Briskin, who bring additional leadership to the showcase.