No. 2 Alabama vs. Memphis in the 2024 Rocket City Classic

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball team will face Memphis in their second and final preseason matchup on Monday, October 28 at 7:00 p.m. CT at Propst Arena.

The Rocket City Classic benefits the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, according to Daily Memphian's Parth Upadhyaya. Although this does not count toward each team's record, this is technically the first team Alabama will face in 2024-25.

Memphis holds a 4-3 series lead, but the Crimson Tide won the last game 91-88 on December 13, 2022. Brandon Miller, the future second overall NBA draft pick, led Alabama on the night with 24 points on 7-of-7-13 shooting from the field, along with eight rebounds and five assists. Mark Sears (18 points), Noah Clowney (11) and Jaden Bradley (10) also finished in double figures.

Alabama's basketball program was ranked No. 3 in the respective AP poll after a 25-12 season that ended with the first NCAA Tournament Final Four appearance in school history.

A strong argument can be made that this is the most anticipated season in Tide hoops history. Head coach Nate Oats and his staff, several returning players including First Team All-SEC point guard Mark Sears, several experienced transfers and highly touted incoming freshmen all give Alabama realistic expectations of two more wins than last season's NCAA Tournament. to claim the school's first-ever national title.

“We are excited and look forward to working with Memphis on this meaningful event in Huntsville,” Oats said in a press release. “This exhibition game is a chance to benefit the Huntsville Hospital Foundation and give back to those in need that goes beyond basketball. We look forward to seeing our fans in Huntsville and having the opportunity to play a quality program in Memphis.”

Memphis is aiming for a strong season after finishing last year with a 22-10 record. Despite their record, the Tigers failed to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament last season after losing to Wichita State in the first round of the American Athletic Conference Tournament.

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