No. 23 Alabama Faces No. 19 Florida in Critical SEC Showdown
GAINESVILLE, February 1, 2026 – A pivotal Top-25 matchup in the Southeastern Conference tips off this afternoon as the No. 23 Alabama Crimson Tide (14-6, 4-3 SEC) visit the No. 19 Florida Gators (15-6, 6-2 SEC). The game, scheduled for 1 PM ET at the O’Connell Center, carries significant weight for both teams’ conference standings and NCAA Tournament resumes.
Injury Cloud Over Crimson Tide Starter
The status of Alabama starting forward Amari Allen remains uncertain heading into the contest. Head coach Nate Oats has listed Allen as a “game-time decision” due to injury, a designation that has held for several days. Despite missing recent action, Oats indicated the freshman is “chomping at the bit” to return to the lineup. His potential absence could impact Alabama’s frontcourt depth against a physically imposing Florida squad.
Coaching Jabs and Pre-Game Drama
The lead-up to the game has featured verbal sparring between the coaching staffs. Florida’s Todd Golden made comments regarding Alabama player Charles Bediako, to which Nate Oats responded, “Charles has done nothing wrong,” and indicated he is operating as if Bediako will be available. Oats also took a pointed jab at Florida’s rebounding prowess, acknowledging they lead the nation in offensive and total rebounds but quipping they “sit in the lane for 6, 7, 8, 9 seconds” to achieve those numbers.
Key Facts & Tournament Implications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Matchup | #23 Alabama Crimson Tide at #19 Florida Gators |
| Date & Time | Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Location | Exactech Arena / O’Connell Center, Gainesville, FL |
| Current Records | Alabama: 14-6 (4-3 SEC) | Florida: 15-6 (6-2 SEC) |
| Last Meeting | Florida won 99-94 in Tuscaloosa on March 5, 2025. |
| NCAA Projection | Both teams are projected as 4 or 5 seeds; this game is a key seed-line battle. |
| Series History | Alabama is 19-40 all-time on the road against Florida. |
March Madness Seeding on the Line
The outcome of this game will directly influence the postseason picture for both programs. Recent bracketology updates from ESPN and CBS Sports project Alabama as a No. 5 seed, with Florida hovering between a No. 4 and No. 5 seed. A road win for the Crimson Tide would bolster its resume and potentially push it into the protected top-four seed conversation, while a Florida victory would solidify its position near the top of the SEC and improve its case for a higher seed. Experts note this matchup will go a long way in determining “who is the cream of the crop in the SEC.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amari Allen playing for Alabama against Florida?
As of game day, Alabama forward Amari Allen is officially a game-time decision due to injury. Head coach Nate Oats will make the final call closer to tip-off.
What channel is the Alabama vs. Florida game on?
Broadcast information was not specified in the provided sources. Fans should check local listings or the SEC Network for likely coverage.
What are the NCAA Tournament projections for Alabama?
As of January 30, most bracket experts, including ESPN’s Joe Lunardi, project Alabama as a No. 5 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
Who won the last game between Alabama and Florida?
The Florida Gators won the last meeting, defeating Alabama 99-94 in Tuscaloosa on March 5, 2025.