By Loveth 
Alabama’s head coach, Nate Oats, is confident that guard Aden Holloway can handle the Auburn crowd when the Crimson Tide faces off against the Tigers at Neville Arena on Saturday.
Holloway, who transferred from Auburn to Alabama after last season, is making his first return to his former home court. While Auburn’s head coach Bruce Pearl has urged fans to keep their language in check, it’s safe to assume the student section won’t be giving Holloway a warm welcome.
Oats knows the environment will be intense but believes Holloway is ready for it. “Their fans are passionate, emotional,” Oats said. “Some of them will probably hope he has a bad game, but he’s gotta be mentally tough and just play basketball.”
Since joining Alabama, Holloway has stepped up his game. He’s shooting 47.3% from the field this season, a big jump from the 31.8% he managed at Auburn. When the Tigers visited Alabama earlier this season, Holloway put up 10 points in 16 minutes, though Auburn still won that matchup 94-85.
Oats doesn’t want Holloway to overthink this game. “He doesn’t need to prove anything. He just needs to play tough, play smart, take his shots when they come, and not force anything. He’s been great for us.”
This matchup doesn’t have the same stakes as their last one, which featured a No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown with the SEC title on the line. Since then, Alabama has dropped to No. 7, while Auburn has already locked up the championship. The Tide is mainly playing for NCAA Tournament seeding, but pride in the rivalry is still a big factor.
Despite the pressure, Oats trusts Holloway to stay composed. “It’s a big game for everyone, but especially for him going back there,” Oats said. “Their fans will be fired up, but he’s a tough kid. He’ll be ready.”
Alabama and Auburn tip off at 1:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, with the game airing on ESPN.