HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Rocket City Classic is back for 2024 with an exciting matchup that is expected to fill the VBC Propst Arena for the second year in a row.
On October 28, Alabama, fresh off its first-ever Final Four appearance, will play against Memphis in an NCAA-approved exhibition game. The game will benefit the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
“We are excited to welcome the Alabama basketball team back to Huntsville for a game at VBC Propst Arena,” Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said. “After making a historic run to the Final Four last year, this is a tremendous opportunity for our community and provide a showcase that will bring the national spotlight on our great city with a stellar matchup against a strong Memphis team led by NBA legend Penny Hardaway.”
Alabama’s Mark Sears and Grant Nelson will be key players. Sears, from Muscle Shoals, had an impressive season with an average of 21.5 points per game. Nelson, who transferred from North Dakota State, averaged 11.9 points and 5.9 rebounds.
The game will help raise funds for the Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s Heartbeat Heroes project, which provides AEDs in community spaces to help during cardiac emergencies.
Tickets will be available for presale on August 22 and go on sale to the public on August 23 at 10 a.m. Prices start at $40.