THE HILL | One year after a thrilling finish at Ballin in Boutwell, the Alabama A&M University men's basketball team will return to face Samford in the opening game of the 2026 event. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Boutwell Auditorium in Birmingham, Ala.
Alabama A&M led by 12 points early in the second half of the 2025 matchup before Samford rallied.
Kintavious Dozier sank two free throws with eight seconds remaining to give the Bulldogs a 74-73 lead, and Samford's potential game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer rimmed out.
"We are excited to be part of Ballin in Boutwell for the second consecutive year. Events like this are great for our program because they give our student-athletes the opportunity to compete in a first-class atmosphere while showcasing Alabama A&M basketball in one of the state's premier basketball events," Alabama A&M head coach
Donte' Jackson said. "Playing in Birmingham allows us to connect with our alumni, fans and supporters across the state, and we look forward to representing our university and building excitement as we prepare for the upcoming season."
In 2024, Boutwell Auditorium hosted its first men's basketball game in more than 45 years, an exhibition matchup between Alabama and Wake Forest. Tickets are on sale at www.ballininboutwell.com.
Ballin in Boutwell Schedule (Oct. 13-15)
- Alabama A&M men vs. Samford - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13
- Auburn women vs. UCF - noon Wednesday, Oct. 14
- Auburn men vs. Florida State - 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14
- Alabama women vs. UAH - noon Thursday, Oct. 15
- Alabama men vs. Ole Miss - 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15
For complete coverage of Alabama A&M Athletics - the Rocket City's only Division I program - visit www.aamusports.com. Follow the Bulldogs on Instagram (@aamuathletics), Facebook (aamubulldogathletics), X (@_aamuathletics) and TikTok (aamuathletics).
