Alabama Crimson Tide Defeat Auburn Tigers in Senior Night Matchup

No. 16 Alabama sweeps the season series against rival Auburn with a 96-84 victory on Senior Night.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The No. 16 Alabama Crimson Tide welcomed the Auburn Tigers to Coleman Coliseum on Saturday for the second game of the rivalry series. Alabama jumped out to an early lead and maintained it throughout the night, defeating Auburn 96-84 to complete the season sweep. The program honored three seniors - Houston Mallette, Latrell Wrightsell Jr., and Noah Williamson - before the game, as they played their final home game in Tuscaloosa.

Why it matters

The Iron Bowl of Basketball is one of the fiercest rivalries in college basketball, and this matchup had significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations. Alabama's victory not only secured the season sweep over their in-state rival, but also strengthened their case for an NCAA Tournament berth as they continue their push towards March Madness.

The details

Alabama was led by strong performances from several players, including Labaron Philon Jr. (21 points), Aden Holloway (21 points), and Amari Allen (16 points). The Crimson Tide shot the ball well, going 6-for-7 from the free throw line and 3-for-7 from beyond the arc. Alabama's defense also played a key role, limiting Auburn's scoring opportunities and forcing the Tigers into 14 turnovers.

  • The game was played on March 7, 2026.
  • It was Alabama's final home game of the regular season.

The players

Labaron Philon Jr.

A guard for the Alabama Crimson Tide who scored 21 points in the game, including reaching 1,000 career points in his 66th collegiate game.

Houston Mallette

A senior guard for the Alabama Crimson Tide who was previously named to the SEC Community Team.

Nate Oats

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, who talked to the student section before the game and asked them to limit profanity to keep things classy.

Aden Holloway

A guard for the Alabama Crimson Tide who scored 21 points, going 6-for-6 from the free throw line, 3-for-7 from three-point range, and 6-for-14 from the field.

Amari Allen

A forward for the Alabama Crimson Tide who finished the game with 16 total points, bouncing back from scoring just five points in the last two games combined.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery Employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Crimson Tide will now turn their attention to the SEC Tournament, where they will look to secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament and continue their push towards a deep postseason run.

The takeaway

Alabama's victory over their in-state rival Auburn on Senior Night showcased the depth and talent of the Crimson Tide roster, as several players stepped up with strong performances. This win not only solidified Alabama's position in the SEC standings, but also provided a fitting sendoff for the team's three graduating seniors, who have been integral parts of the program's success over the past four years.