A New Chapter in the Rocket City Classic
Auburn University’s men’s basketball program has locked in a non‑conference matchup against Middle Tennessee State on Dec. 15, a game that will be played at VBC Propst Arena in Huntsville, Alabama. The contest is part of the Rocket City Classic, a showcase event presented by Akima and billed as the first meeting between the Tigers and the Blue Raiders.
Coach Bruce Pearl expressed enthusiasm about returning to Huntsville and testing his squad against Middle Tennessee’s experienced lineup, noting that the game adds a compelling early‑season narrative for the Tigers.
Middle Tennessee coach Kermit Davis will lead his team into the arena, bringing a reputation for disciplined play that Pearl said will challenge Auburn’s own strategies. The Tigers previously opened the inaugural Rocket City Classic by defeating UNC Asheville on Dec. 13, 2023, setting a positive tone for the series.
Tickets for the Dec. 15 showdown will go on sale to the general public on June 10, giving fans the opportunity to secure seats for what promises to be a high‑energy contest. The game forms part of Auburn’s broader non‑conference schedule, which also includes contests against Wisconsin and West Virginia, with the full slate of matchups to be announced later this summer.
Looking ahead, Auburn’s 2026‑27 non‑conference slate is slated to feature additional power‑house opponents, including West Virginia, Kansas or UNLV, and a second meeting with Wisconsin, underscoring the program’s commitment to a demanding schedule.