The long-standing rivalry between Alabama and Auburn, originally centered on football, has increasingly sparked tension on the basketball court. During a recent game at Neville Arena, Auburn supporters directed sharp taunts at Alabama’s center Charles Bediako, attempting to unsettle him with chants referencing his past in the G League. Despite the hostile atmosphere, Nate Oats’ Alabama squad secured a victory, leaving Auburn’s crowd quiet as they departed. This moment highlighted both the passion of the rivalry and Bediako’s resilience amid criticism.
Fans Target Bediako with G League Chants During Game
Auburn’s fans echoed similar chants that had previously been heard from Florida supporters, branding Charles Bediako a “G League drop out” while he stepped up to the free-throw line in the second half. When asked about the fan reaction postgame, Alabama’s head coach Nate Oats dismissed the taunts, noting the fans’ silence as his team exited the arena, according to reports from 247 Sports’ Mike Rodak. The chants aimed to undermine Bediako’s confidence, but the Alabama center appeared unfazed throughout the game.
“Auburn fans chanted ‘G-League drop out’ at former NBA player Charles Bediako. pic.twitter.com/d7vbz8ZE4B”
— ESPN (@espn) February 7, 2026
Charles Bediako’s Journey and Performance in Focus
Bediako, whose college career with Alabama began in 2021 and paused in 2023 when he entered the NBA Draft, has been a polarizing figure in college basketball circles. After going undrafted, he spent time with several G League teams before returning to Alabama’s roster. Despite the hostile chants, he performed flawlessly in this game, shooting a perfect 5-for-5, scoring 12 points, securing three rebounds, and recording one steal in 22 minutes of play.
Supporting Efforts Lift Alabama to Victory
In addition to Bediako’s contribution, Alabama’s offense was led by Labaron Philon Jr., who tallied 25 points alongside six assists. Amari Allen added 17 points with six rebounds and four assists, while Aden Holloway chipped in 15 points. Defensively, center Aiden Sherrell’s presence was felt with four blocks, despite a modest six points and three rebounds. Auburn’s top scorers, Tahaad Pettiford and Keyshawn Hall, combined for 49 points, but the Tigers struggled to match Alabama’s depth, especially considering the bench contributed only seven points compared to Alabama’s 28.
Anticipation Builds for the Upcoming Season Finale Rematch
The rivalry between Alabama and Auburn will continue when the two teams meet again in the regular season finale. This critical rematch is set to take place at Alabama’s Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, where the Tide will look to defend their home court advantage. With both teams showing strong individual efforts, the next encounter promises to be a decisive and highly contested game that could impact postseason positioning.
"They were pretty quiet when we left today," Nate Oats says of Auburn's fans.
— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) February 7, 2026
Auburn fans chanted "G-League drop out" at former NBA player Charles Bediako. pic.twitter.com/d7vbz8ZE4B
— ESPN (@espn) February 7, 2026
