UP TO IT: The tipoff time is set for Tennessee basketball’s home matchup against Alabama in Knoxville….. 

The Tennessee Volunteers men’s basketball team is set to host the Alabama Crimson Tide in a highly anticipated Southeastern Conference (SEC) matchup on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee. The game is scheduled to tip off at 4 p.m. Eastern Time and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. citeturn0search0

Team Rankings and Significance

As of February 19, 2025, Alabama holds the No. 4 spot in the national rankings, while Tennessee is positioned at No. 6. Both teams are vying for top seeds in the upcoming SEC Tournament and are strong contenders for high seeds in the NCAA Tournament. citeturn0search0

Recent Matchups

Tennessee has demonstrated dominance in recent encounters with Alabama, securing victories in the last three meetings. Notably, the Volunteers defeated then-No. 1 Alabama in Knoxville in February 2023 and completed a season sweep last year, including an 81-74 win in Tuscaloosa that played a pivotal role in Tennessee clinching the SEC title over Alabama. citeturn0search0

Coaching Insights

Under the leadership of head coach Rick Barnes, Tennessee has achieved a 6-5 record against Alabama over the past nine seasons. Since Nate Oats took over as Alabama’s head coach, the Volunteers have a 4-3 record against the Crimson Tide. Oats has been instrumental in elevating Alabama’s program, leading them to two SEC Regular-Season Championships and an SEC Tournament title since 2020-21, culminating in the program’s first Final Four appearance last season. citeturn0search0

Ticket Information

Tickets for this high-stakes game are in high demand and have sold out. Fans are encouraged to explore secondary market options to secure seats for this marquee matchup. citeturn0search4

Viewing Options

For those unable to attend in person, the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, providing comprehensive coverage of this pivotal SEC showdown. citeturn0search0

This matchup between Tennessee and Alabama promises to be a thrilling contest with significant implications for both teams’ postseason aspirations. Fans can anticipate a high-energy game featuring top-tier talent and strategic coaching.