Alabama basketball has reportedly scheduled another marquee nonconference game against Illinois Fighting Illini at United Center on November 19, following their previous matchup in Birmingham last season, which Alabama won 100-87. In addition, the Crimson Tide has confirmed matchups against Arizona Wildcats and Purdue in December and November, respectively.
Illinois, with a 22-13 record last season, earned a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament, while Alabama finished 28-9 and reached the Elite Eight before falling to Duke. The Crimson Tide will also face North Dakota and participate in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas as part of their nonconference slate. The annual SEC/ACC Challenge will see Alabama compete against an ACC opponent, following their successful season and high rankings in the final polls.