UAH starts new women's basketball season taking on Alabama

UAH women's basketball team celebrating on the bench — UAH set several program records last season. (UAH Athletics)

The UAH women’s basketball team will be starting their 2026-2027 season taking on Alabama in an exhibition game, as part of the larger Ballin in Boutwell showcase.

The game will take place on October 15th in the historic Boutwell Auditorium in Downtown Birmingham, with tipoff scheduled for 12PM CT. If you’re interested in attending the game in person, tickets can be purchased here.

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What to expect from the UAH women’s basketball team

Head coach Allen Sharpe speaking with his team in the huddle — Since head coach Allen Sharpe took over the program, UAH has been one of the most dominating Division II women’s basketball teams. (UAH Athletics)

UAH is certainly the underdog in the matchup, but you can’t simply write them off. Since Allen Sharpe took over as head coach two seasons ago, the team has gone 57-13 and has been the dominant program in the Golf South Conference.

The Chargers made history last season, reaching the Division II Final Four for the first time in school history—ending the season with a remarkable 32-6 record.

Winning a game against an SEC program like Alabama would give the UAH team immense confidence and momentum heading into their season, but regardless of the outcome, it will be an excellent learning experience and great opportunity for the players.

Auburn, Ole Miss + other schools competing at Ballin in Boutwell

Ballin in Boutwell graphic — UAH is one of eight universities competing at Ballin in Boutwell. (UAH Athletics)

Ballin in Boutwell is a multi-day basketball showcase put on by Nike and Hibbett. This year, it’s taking place between October 13-15 and is hosting both men’s + women’s teams.

The exhibition event was created in 2024 and brought basketball back the historic Boutwell Auditorium in Downtown Birmingham for the first time in 45 years.

Check out some of the other exciting basketball games happening at Ballin in Boutwell this year: