TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Alabama men's basketball team was announced as part of the eight-team field that will make up the 2021 ESPN Events Invitational, which will be held Thursday, Nov. 25 through Sunday, Nov. 28 at HP Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports near Orlando, Fla. In addition to the Crimson Tide, the field will include Belmont, Dayton, Drake, Iona, Kansas, Miami (Fla.) and North Texas.
This marks the second time the Crimson Tide will compete in the event, which is now in its 14th year and was previously known as the Orlando Invitational. The only other appearance came in 2015 when Alabama finished 2-1, defeating Wichita State and Notre Dame.
Head Coach Nate Oats Comments
"We are excited for the opportunity to play in the ESPN Events Invitational next season. From top to bottom, this is a loaded field and will have some great opportunities early in the season to face some high-quality competition. It will give us a chance to find out early what areas we need to grow while providing some great entertainment for fans. Our fans are terrific and were tremendous in showing their support as much as they could this past season. We would love to have our fans come in-person to support us and enjoy some great basketball over Thanksgiving week. It should be a lot of fun."
Field Highlights
- Five of the eight teams in the field reached the 2021 NCAA Tournament: Alabama (Sweet 16), Kansas and North Texas (second round), as well as Drake and Iona
- Dayton played in the 2021 National Invitation Tournament
- Three of the eight teams are ranked in the ESPN.com's "Way Too Early Top 25." No. 5 Kansas, No. 8 Alabama and No. 23 Belmont
- Maryland won the most recent invitational in 2019. Previous winners include Villanova in 2018, West Virginia in 2017, Gonzaga in 2016, 2012 and 2008, Xavier in 2015, Kansas in 2014, Memphis in 2013, Dayton in 2011, Notre Dame in 2010, Florida State in 2009, NC State in 2007 and Arkansas in 2006
Additional information, including travel packages, can be found on the ESPN Events Invitational web site
