**Tuscaloosa, AL** – In a major announcement that sends a wave through the college basketball and summer hoops community, the **Alabama Basketball Alumni Team**, known as the **“Men of Mackey,”** has officially announced they will **not participate in the 2025 edition of The Basketball Tournament (TBT)**. Instead, the team has made the strategic decision to **retool, regroup, and return stronger in 2026**, aiming for a deep tournament run and a shot at the \$1 million grand prize.
The Men of Mackey, comprised of former University of Alabama standouts and professional players from around the world, have built a loyal following thanks to their passionate play, SEC toughness, and relentless commitment to Crimson Tide basketball values. The team made its TBT debut to high expectations and has since become a staple on the summer circuit, proudly representing Alabama on the national stage.
“This isn’t the end — this is a new beginning,” said **Team Captain and former Alabama guard \[Name]**, who helped spearhead the program’s involvement in TBT. “We’ve had a great run, but we know what it takes to win this tournament. After reflecting on our performance and vision, we’re using 2025 as a reset year — a time to build something special for 2026.”
The team cited several reasons behind the decision to skip this summer’s tournament, including player availability, roster development, and a renewed focus on chemistry and preparation. With many of its alumni now playing professionally overseas or in domestic leagues, aligning schedules proved increasingly difficult for 2025. Rather than rushing into competition, team leadership emphasized quality over urgency.
**General Manager \[Name]** echoed those sentiments: “We’re focused on longevity and doing this right. We have unfinished business in the TBT, and by stepping back this year, we’ll have the time and space to evaluate talent, re-engage alumni, and build a championship-caliber roster for 2026.”
While some may be surprised by the news, the move has already generated optimism among the Alabama basketball community. Early discussions have already begun with a number of former standout players from the Nate Oats era and earlier, including interest from several high-level professionals interested in returning to the TBT stage under the Men of Mackey banner.
Additionally, the team is planning offseason workouts, fan engagement events, and alumni showcases in Alabama to keep supporters connected during the 2025 cycle.
“We love this fan base and everything Alabama basketball stands for,” said \[Coach or Organizer Name]. “We’re not just representing ourselves — we’re representing decades of Crimson Tide pride. We want 2026 to be about more than a tournament. We want it to be a movement.”
Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the team’s official social media (@MenOfMackey) for exclusive updates, content, and announcements regarding the 2026 roster and events.
### ABOUT MEN OF MACKEY:
Though originally sharing a name with Purdue’s arena, the Alabama-based **Men of Mackey** alumni team has forged its own identity — rooted in toughness, teamwork, and Tide tradition. Comprising Crimson Tide alumni and supported by a growing fanbase, the team competes in **The Basketball Tournament (TBT)** — a nationally televised, single-elimination summer event featuring top talent and a \$1 million prize.
**Contact:**
Email: [press@menofmackey.com](mailto:press@menofmackey.com)
Twitter/Instagram: @MenOfMackey
**ROLL TIDE — SEE YOU IN TBT 2026.**
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