Alabama's basketball season is about to tip-off, and the pressure is ON! Will they overcome the sting of last year's Elite Eight defeat? Get ready for live updates, scores, and play-by-play as the Crimson Tide takes on Florida State in their first exhibition game of the 2025-26 season.
After a heartbreaking end to the previous season with that Elite Eight loss to Duke, all eyes are on Alabama as they face Florida State in the Ballin' in Boutwell showcase, held in Birmingham's Boutwell Auditorium. This game offers a crucial first look at the team's potential and how they've regrouped.
This year's Alabama squad features a blend of exciting newcomers and seasoned veterans. Returning guards like Labaron Philon Jr., Aden Holloway, Houston Mallette, Latrell Wrightsell Jr., and center Aiden Sherrell are expected to play significant roles. Fans are eager to see how these returning players have developed and how they'll mesh with the new talent. Labaron Philon Jr., in particular, has been generating buzz as a potential three-point threat.
But here's where it gets interesting... How will the new additions impact the team's dynamic? Will they be able to fill the gaps left by players who have moved on? It's an exhibition game, so expect some experimentation from Coach Oats. We'll be watching closely to see which lineups work best and which players rise to the occasion.
And this is the part most people miss... Exhibition games are more than just warm-ups. They're a chance for coaches to assess player performance under pressure without the weight of a regular-season loss. They provide invaluable insights into team chemistry and individual strengths and weaknesses. They also allow the team to test out new strategies and find out what works and what doesn't.
This game against Florida State is a vital step for Alabama basketball. It's a chance to build momentum, identify areas for improvement, and give fans a glimpse of what to expect in the upcoming season. But here's a question for you: Do you think this revamped Alabama team has what it takes to make a deeper run in the NCAA tournament this year? Is the blend of returning talent and fresh faces enough to overcome the challenges of a tough SEC schedule? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
