Article by: Robbie Kan, Contributing Writer, Photos by Chandler Pittman
On Oct. 22, the 2nd annual Jaguar Tip-Off Fest at the Mitchell Center brought tons of excitement and fun to kick off the festivities of the 2026 basketball season. The event featured different vendors, activities, and organizations, giving fans an opportunity to celebrate the upcoming season.
The South Alabama pep band, both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, the cheer team, and the Prowlers were all present, creating the atmosphere of an actual game. Some of the activities included face painting, several bouncy houses, and a Whataburger table. There was even a 3-point contest with the winner receiving a 50-inch TV.
Midway through the event, both the women’s and men’s teams were introduced to the crowd. After each team was introduced, coaches Richie Riley and Yolisha Jackson presented their speeches about the upcoming season. The coaches’ speeches were similar, both highlighting the importance of supporting the teams by filling up the Mitchell Center each and every game. Both coaches made a point to express their appreciation to the Prowlers, the cheer team, and the Jaguar pep band, who attend every men’s and women’s home game. Coach Riley and Coach Jackson seemed optimistic about the coming year, highlighting the hard work of their respective teams and the excitement to start the season.
The team introductions ended with a performance from the Prowlers and the Jaguar Pep band closing with the South Alabama Fight Song. After the conclusion of the featured presentations, various other activities continued. There was an opportunity to receive a signed poster of both the women’s and men’s teams for anyone who attended the event.
With the Tip-Off Fest wrapping up, both teams now turn their attention to the start of the 2026-2027 season. Both the men’s and women’s teams hosted exhibition games, which the women’s team played on Oct. 28 against Southeastern Baptist, a Division II team from Laurel, Mississippi. The men’s team played the next day on Oct. 29 against Mississippi Christian, a Division II team from Clinton, Mississippi. The week after that, the regular season officially started with the men’s team kicking off the season at the Mitch on Nov. 2 against the Ohio Bobcats. The women’s team played as well on Nov. 2 against Akron, but it was an away game in Akron, Ohio. Their home opener will not be until Nov. 7 against UAB. For the complete men’s and women’s basketball schedules, visit these links:
