So, you’re looking for the kickoff time for the Alabama game this Saturday, January 17, 2026? Well, here’s the thing: if you’re looking for football, you’re about two weeks late. The Crimson Tide’s football season officially wrapped up back on New Year’s Day after that tough 38-3 loss to Indiana in the Rose Bowl.
But if you’re a die-hard Bama fan, the action hasn't stopped. It has just moved from the gridiron to the hardwood.
The Alabama men's basketball team is playing the Oklahoma Sooners this Saturday, January 17. ## What Time is the Alabama Game on Saturday?
The Crimson Tide tips off against Oklahoma at 12:00 p.m. CT (1:00 p.m. ET).
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This isn't a night game or a late-afternoon snack. It’s a high-noon showdown in Norman. If you're planning your Saturday around it, make sure you’ve got your wings ready by lunch.
The game is being held at the Lloyd Noble Center in Oklahoma. For those of us watching from the couch in Tuscaloosa or anywhere else, you’ll want to tune into the SEC Network.
Game Day Essentials:
- Who: No. 18 Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Oklahoma Sooners
- When: Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
- Time: 12 p.m. CT / 1 p.m. ET
- Where: Lloyd Noble Center, Norman, OK
- TV Channel: SEC Network
- Radio: Crimson Tide Sports Network (Chris Stewart on the call)
Why This Game Actually Matters
Honestly, this isn't just another mid-January conference game. Alabama is currently sitting at 12-5 overall and 2-2 in the SEC. They are coming off a big road win against Mississippi State, and Nate Oats’ squad is looking for some serious momentum.
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Oklahoma is kind of in a must-win spot themselves. They’re 11-6 and struggling a bit at 1-3 in conference play. Plus, there is some "traitor" energy in the building—former Bama player Mohamed Wague is now a starting forward for the Sooners. He was part of that magical Final Four run for Alabama, and now he’s the one trying to crash the Tide's party.
Alabama is leaning heavily on Labaron Philon Jr., who has been absolutely electric lately. He’s averaging over 21 points a game. If he stays hot, Oklahoma’s defense is going to have a very long afternoon.
What Happened to Alabama Football?
I know, some of you might have clicked this thinking there was a secret playoff game. There isn't. The College Football Playoff National Championship is actually happening this Monday, January 19, but it’s between Miami and Indiana.
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Alabama fans are already looking toward the 2026 fall season. The schedule is already out, and it starts on September 5 against East Carolina. But for right now? It’s all about Nate Oats and the basketball team.
How to Watch and Listen
If you aren't near a TV, you can catch the radio broadcast on the Crimson Tide Sports Network. Chris Stewart and Bryan Passink are the best in the business. If you have SiriusXM, you can find the Alabama broadcast on Channel 190.
For the streamers, the game will be available via the ESPN app if you have a cable provider that includes the SEC Network.
Quick Tips for Saturday:
- Check your timezone. 12:00 p.m. is Central Time. If you're on the East Coast, don't tune in at noon and wonder why you're watching SportsCenter; the game starts at 1:00 p.m. for you.
- Watch the injury report. Bama has been playing short-handed lately with only about eight scholarship players available. Keep an eye on the pregame warmups to see who is actually dressed out.
- Prepare for a fast pace. Nate Oats doesn't do "slow." Expect a lot of three-pointers and a lot of transition buckets.
The Tide is currently ranked No. 18 in the country. A win on the road in Norman would likely keep them in the Top 20 and keep those SEC title hopes alive.
Next Steps:
Go ahead and set a reminder on your phone for 11:45 a.m. CT to catch the start of the pregame show. If you’re looking for tickets, check the Oklahoma Sooners' official site or secondary markets like StubHub, though being a weekend game in the SEC, seats at the Lloyd Noble Center are likely getting scarce.