Nate Oats' former rival didn't pick Alabama basketball to start its appearance at the Players Era Festival with a win.

Bruce Pearl — who handed his previous job as the head coach of Auburn to his son, Steven, ahead of the 2025-26 season — told TNT ahead of the No. 9 Crimson Tide's game against No. 10 Gonzaga that he was taking the underdog.

"I think the matchup goes to Gonzaga tonight. They're too big, they're too physical and I think they'll be able to guard Alabama ," Pearl said.

Pearl eventually diverted from the Xs and Os to give Oats his flowers, but quickly wilted them with his final pick of Gonzaga coach Mark Few. REQUIRED READING: Alabama basketball G Latrell Wrightsell Jr. out for entire Players Era Festival Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzz

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