Alabama defeats Auburn 96-92 in high-scoring rivalry game

Crimson Tide rally from 10-point deficit behind Philon Jr.'s 25 points

Feb. 8, 2026 at 12:15am

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In a close SEC matchup, the Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Auburn Tigers 96-92 on Saturday. Labaron Philon Jr. led Alabama with 25 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds, while Amari Allen added 17 points and 6 rebounds. The Crimson Tide overcame a 10-point deficit in the second half with key runs to take the lead for good late in the game.

Why it matters

This rivalry game between Alabama and Auburn is always highly anticipated, as the two in-state schools compete for bragging rights and positioning in the SEC standings. The win helps keep Alabama in the hunt for an NCAA Tournament bid, while Auburn missed an opportunity to bolster its tournament resume.

The details

Alabama trailed by as many as 10 points in the game, but rallied with an 11-0 run and an 8-0 run in the second half to take the lead for good with 10:39 remaining. Philon Jr. had a strong all-around game for the Crimson Tide, while Amari Allen and Aden Holloway also made key contributions. On the Auburn side, Tahaad Pettiford scored 25 points and Keyshawn Hall added 24, but the Tigers couldn't hold onto their early lead.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Alabama trailed by 10 points at one point in the second half.
  • Alabama took the lead for good with 10:39 remaining in regulation.

The players

Labaron Philon Jr.

A key player for the Alabama Crimson Tide, scoring 25 points with 6 assists and 5 rebounds in the win.

Amari Allen

Contributed 17 points and 6 rebounds for Alabama in the victory.

Tahaad Pettiford

Led the Auburn Tigers with 25 points and 7 assists in the losing effort.

Keyshawn Hall

Scored 24 points for Auburn, but fouled out late in the game.

Charles Bediako

Alabama center who played in the NBA G League earlier this season, remains NCAA eligible following a temporary restraining order.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to fight back and keep our composure. The guys did a great job of sticking to the game plan and making the plays we needed to win this rivalry game.”

— Nate Oats, Alabama Head Coach

What’s next

Alabama will visit Ole Miss on Wednesday, while Auburn will host 15th-ranked Vanderbilt on Tuesday as both teams continue SEC play.

The takeaway

This back-and-forth rivalry game showcased the talent and competitiveness of both Alabama and Auburn, with the Crimson Tide ultimately prevailing in a close contest. The win keeps Alabama in the hunt for an NCAA Tournament bid, while Auburn missed an opportunity to bolster its own tournament resume.