Title: March Madness Shock: Former Alabama Star Bets on Auburn, Not Tide, for Final Four
The college basketball world is buzzing with controversy after a former Alabama All-American publicly revealed his Final Four bracket—without the Crimson Tide in it. Instead, the ex-Tide star, known for his loyalty to the program, has Auburn making a deep run. The revelation has ignited heated debates, split fanbases, and added fuel to an already intense in-state rivalry.
The former Alabama great—let’s call him Jake Holloway—was a dominant force in Tuscaloosa during his playing days. He led the Crimson Tide to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and was a fan favorite. However, during a nationally televised segment on Bracketology Live, Holloway stunned viewers by revealing his predictions. His Final Four picks? Purdue, UConn, Houston, and—Auburn.
No Alabama.
The reaction was immediate and fierce. Crimson Tide fans felt betrayed, with some calling him a “traitor” on social media. Auburn supporters, on the other hand, welcomed the unexpected endorsement with open arms, celebrating it as validation of their program’s legitimacy.
Holloway defended his decision with cold, hard analysis. “Look, I love Alabama, but I have to be objective,” he said. “Auburn has the depth, the defense, and the momentum. Their backcourt is elite, and Bruce Pearl has them playing inspired basketball. Alabama, on the other hand, relies too much on streaky shooting. If they go cold, they’re done.”
Sports analysts debated whether Holloway’s pick was a calculated move or a genuine basketball assessment. Some argued he was simply calling it as he saw it. Others suspected he was making a bold, attention-grabbing statement, knowing the rivalry would amplify the controversy.
But the most intense theory? That Holloway still holds resentment toward Alabama’s administration for not hiring him as an assistant coach after his playing career. Some insiders claim he’s using this moment to send a message.
Regardless of motive, one thing is clear: Alabama’s players now have bulletin-board material. Head coach Nate Oats reportedly mentioned Holloway’s bracket in a team meeting, fueling the Tide’s motivation to prove him wrong. “We see it. We hear it,” Oats said. “We’ll let our game do the talking.”
With March Madness unfolding, all eyes are on Alabama and Auburn. If Holloway’s prediction holds, he’ll look like a basketball prophet. If Alabama advances further than Auburn, he’ll face an army of “I told you so” messages.
One former Tide star, one bracket, one shocking pick—March Madness just got even crazier.
