Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Two new independent student magazines will publish their first print editions the week of April 6 after UA shut down UA-funded publications on Dec.

1; launch events and distribution plans are organized by Masthead (a UA alumni nonprofit) with help from over 25 volunteers.

Twice last week, prescribed burns from the Oakmulgee Division of Talladega National Forest sent heavy haze over campus as unexpected winds trapped smoke, though experts say such conditions (from mid-Jan to Apr) are a normal part of protecting forest ecosystems.

The city announced that University Boulevard will close to through traffic between Redmont Drive and Arcadia Place from Saturday, March 14 at 8:30 a.m. until Sunday, March 22 at 5 p.m. for utility installations during spring break - local access will remain open for residents and businesses.

The Crimson Tide updated its 2026 online roster ahead of spring practice on Sunday, March 8 — listing player weight changes, new transfer details, and early enrollee measurements.

Alabama clinched a series sweep over North Florida today when pitcher Myles Upchurch struck out 11 in a mercy-rule win at Sewell Thomas Stadium + the Tide will face Troy on Tuesday, Mar.

10.

Voting for the Tuscaloosa News Boys Athlete of the Week for Feb.

28 to March 6 ended at noon Thursday, March 5. Voters selected among nominees Ford Traweek, Kane Rushing, Ridge Brown, Arlin Perez, and Zai Davis; last week’s winner was Colin Warren.

On March 7, Labaron Philon scored 21 points and reached 1,000 career points at Coleman Coliseum, though he said he had not decided if it was his final game in Tuscaloosa + he will continue with Alabama basketball.

Alabama basketball will play its first SEC Tournament game on Friday, March 13 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

Tickets are on StubHub with all-session passes starting at $293 and Session 6 passes from $76, and the game starts at 6 p.m. CT.

Tuscaloosa News Girls Athlete of the Week voting is open in Tuscaloosa until noon Thursday, March 12, with nominees including Maggie Hamner (Holy Spirit soccer), Jordan Jones (Holt softball), Raegan Morrison (American Christian Academy), Ralyn Irvin (West Blocton), and Anna Sophia Walker (Hubbertville softball). Vote before the deadline.

Troy Trojans vs Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

6-9 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check for ticket details — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup between local college teams.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Softball

6:59-10:59 p.m. — Rhoads Stadium — [Cost Info Not Provided] — Witness a thrilling matchup as the Arkansas Razorbacks take on the Alabama Crimson Tide on their home turf.

K-POP Warriors

7-8:30 p.m. — Bryant Conference Center — Free parking — Experience a high-energy K-Pop show filled with dance, music, and colorful characters.

Tuscaloosa Spring Craft & Vendor Market

10 a.m. - 8 p.m. & 1 - 5:30 p.m. — University Mall — Free entry — Celebrate spring with local vendors and unique seasonal finds.

Samford Bulldogs vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

6-7 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Cost information not provided — Catch the local college baseball rivalry in action.