On Tuesday night, the Alabama Crimson Tide are set to officially open the 2026-27 college basketball season inside Coleman Coliseum.
Coming off another NCAA Tournament appearance, the Crimson Tide will do so against a mid-major opponent in the Sam Houston Bearkats, who are coming off a solid season in their own right. The Bearkats, led by head coach Chris Mudge, and are coming off a 22-12 season (13-7 CUSA) that saw Sam Houston miss the NCAA Tournament.
Alabama is coming off a 25-10 season (13-5 SEC) which ended in the Sweet 16. Led by head coach Nate Oats, the Crimson Tide are ranked as the nation's No. 18 team entering the 2026-27 season, per the USA TODAY Sports Men's Basketball Coaches Poll.
Here are the latest odds for Tuesday's season opener
in Tuscaloosa, as well as a prediction for the game.
Alabama vs. Sam Houston game odds:
Odds according to FanDuel as of Monday, Nov. 2:
- Money Line: Alabama (-20000), Sam Houston (+3500)
- Spread: Alabama (-25.5)
- Over/Under: 168.5
Alabama vs. Sam Houston prediction, pick:
Prediction: Alabama 98, Sam Houston 76 - The Crimson Tide should open the season with a home win against Sam Houston. Expect a big offensive performance from the Crimson Tide, and for Alabama to eventually pull away in the second half.
Alabama vs. Sam Houston channel, start time, streaming:
Alabama and Sam Houston will meet Tuesday, Nov. 3, inside Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on SEC Network+. Streaming options for the game include ESPN+.
Stream Alabama vs. Sam Houston on ESPN+
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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Prediction, odds for Alabama vs. Sam Houston in 2026-27 season opener
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