Alabama vs. Iowa Basketball Game Set for Des Moines in 2026-27 Season
Iowa basketball fans have a marquee non-conference matchup to circle on their calendars. The Alabama Crimson Tide will face the Iowa Hawkeyes in Des Moines on December 21, 2026, as part of Alabama's newly released non-conference schedule.
The game, announced Thursday by Alabama, is a highlight of the Crimson Tide's challenging slate before SEC play. For Iowa, it offers a chance to test itself against a perennial NCAA Tournament contender in front of a home-state crowd.
What This Game Means for Iowa Basketball
This matchup is a major opportunity for the Hawkeyes to prove themselves against top-tier competition. Alabama finished last season with a 25-10 record and reached the Sweet 16 for the fourth straight year. The Crimson Tide are known for their fast-paced, high-scoring style under head coach Nate Oats.
For Iowa fans, this is a rare chance to see a powerhouse SEC program play in Des Moines. It also gives the Hawkeyes a chance to build momentum heading into Big Ten play.
Alabama's Full Non-Conference Slate
Alabama's schedule is loaded with tough opponents. Here are the key games:
- Nov. 24: vs. Baylor at Players Era Championships in Las Vegas
- Nov. 26: vs. winner of Gonzaga/Kansas State at Players Era
- Dec. 2: at Miami in ACC/SEC Challenge
- Dec. 8: vs. Houston at Jimmy V Classic in Madison Square Garden
- Dec. 12: vs. St. John's in Birmingham
- Dec. 21: at Iowa in Des Moines
Alabama also hosts Sam Houston, Arkansas State, Oakland, Seton Hall, Kennesaw State, and Samford in non-conference play.
Alabama's Roster and Outlook
The Crimson Tide will look different this season. They lost four players to the transfer portal and guard Labaron Philon Jr. to the NBA Draft. However, forward Amari Allen withdrew from the draft and is expected to lead the team. Alabama also added four transfers and five freshmen, including top recruit Anderson Diaz.
Key returners include guard Preston Murphy Jr. and forward London Jemison. The roster is deep but young, which could make for an exciting but unpredictable season.
SEC Schedule Also Announced
Alabama's SEC slate includes home games against Florida, Georgia, LSU, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, and Vanderbilt. Road games include Kentucky, Tennessee, and Texas A&M. The dates for these games have not yet been released.
The Crimson Tide will play nine home and nine away games in conference play.
Why This Matters for Iowa Fans
This game is more than just a non-conference test. It's a chance for Iowa to measure itself against a program that has consistently made deep NCAA Tournament runs. It also brings a high-profile opponent to Des Moines, which is a boost for local basketball culture.
For Hawkeye fans, December 21 is a date to watch. It could be a defining moment for Iowa's season.