CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN
AUBURN — The 2026 Special Olympics Alabama State Basketball Tournament was held in Auburn, bringing together more than 22 teams and nearly 300 athletes and coaches from across the state for two days of competition, fellowship and celebration. Events began March 5 with divisioning games at
the Wire Road Soccer Complex, allowing teams to be grouped by skill level before tournament play. Later that evening, athletes gathered at the Frank Brown Recreation Center for Opening Ceremonies, where
they were welcomed by community leaders and special guests, including representatives from Auburn University Football’s player development and recruiting staff, Aubie and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders.
Following the ceremony and dinner, athletes and coaches celebrated with a dance featuring DJ Jason Flowers of Established Entertainment LLC. Tournament games continued March 6 at several venues across Auburn, including the Boykin Community Center, Frank Brown Recreation Center, Wire Road Soccer Complex and Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center. Throughout the day, teams competed for division titles while embracing the spirit of sportsmanship and inclusion that defines Special Olympics. Support from Auburn- Opelika Tourism helped make the event possible by providing the Opening Ceremonies dinner and contributing toward tournament lunches, ensuring a memorable experience for participating athletes, coaches and families.
