Alabama A&M, Alabama State hoops face off in Bridge Builder Classic

17017205 1348957625180694 2488618168086505679 o — The 2023 Bridge Builder Classic will showcase Alabama A&M and the Alabama State in Mobile in January. (Alabama A&M Athletics)

Longtime rivals Alabama A&M and Alabama State will face off on the basketball court in a game in Mobile in January, part of the 2023 Bridge Builder Classic.

The schools will headline a basketball showcase at Mobile’s Mitchell Center Jan. 16. Here are some more details:

resize — AAMU and Alabama State will headline an afternoon/evening of basketball in Mobile. (Alabama A&M Athletics)

The 2023 Bridge Builder Classic takes place Monday, January 16, at the Mitchell Center in Mobile. This year’s showcase features two high school games and both men and women basketball collegiate play.

The game also features a half time battle of the bands and a finale “SWAG SURF” with recording artist FLY! The Classic has been moved to and will remain during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday to celebrate and honor his legacy and those who are “bridge builders” in Alabama’s communities.

A&M and State have agreed to a six-year deal to participate in the showcase.

How the schools benefit

resize 2 — Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams participate in the Bridge Builder Classic. (Alabama A&M Athletics)

Alabama A&M will benefit from its participation in this showcase. This year, both schools committed to a six-year deal to play in Mobile at the Bridge Builder Classic. The contract includes a $100,000 payment to the school of which it would have been their home game. Over the next six years, each school will receive $300,000 for their home game.

“Not only will this match up continue the long-standing rivalry, but it will offer several other extras, as well. The Bridge Builder Classic will build the exposure our stellar athletes receive and heighten the overall profile of our programs. Additionally, BBC will boost the University’s recognition in the region among prospective students and their families, while simultaneously allowing us to increase and nurture support from alumni bases in southern Alabama, northwestern Florida and southeastern Mississippi.”
AAMU athletic director Dr. Paul Bryant

For information on schedules and tickets, visit the Bridge Builder Classic website.

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