Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

The Leadership Tuscaloosa class celebrated the opening of a new basketball court at New Heights Community Resource Center on August 27th; local groups including Shelton State and Stillman College joined the event—Tuscaloosa City Schools Superintendent Mike Daria spoke during the ceremony.

Hotels and Airbnbs in Tuscaloosa have seen prices jump to over 20 times their normal rate on gameday weekends, with some stays listed at up to $11,000 and affordable options under $1,000 now scarce.

This surge has made it harder for students and visitors to find local lodging—forcing some to search in nearby areas with added travel and parking challenges.

Tuscaloosa's population grew 16.2% over the past 10 years—rising from 98,332 in 2015 to 114,288 as of May and boosted by higher university enrollment, new restaurants, and infrastructure improvements.

Former University of Alabama golfer Justin Thomas is returning to the United States Ryder Cup team for his fourth appearance, with the event set for Sept.

26 to 28 in Farmingdale, New York — he was part of the 2021 winning team and earned top honors at Alabama.

The Alabama Sports Writers Association released week 1 high school football rankings showing top teams, records and poll points in each class, noting that the AHSAA season started on Aug.

21 while many AISA teams begin play today—Aug. 28.

Parker Brailsford, Alabama's center and one of four team captains, leads the offensive line with steady calm as he readies his team for the season opener on Aug.

30 at Florida State — his clear instructions in the huddle help guide a unit with new leadership at quarterback and on the coaching staff.

On August 27th, Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said defensive lineman Tim Keenan III — the team captain — will probably not play against Florida State on Saturday due to a lower-body injury.

His status is still being evaluated after practice and further assessment by the coaching staff.

The Big Get Down in T-Town

7-11 p.m. — Central High School, Tuscaloosa, AL — $35 Early Bird — Experience the biggest outdoor concert of the summer with live performances and food trucks under the stars.

Louisiana Monroe Warhawks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Football

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium — Tickets vary — Experience thrilling college football action as the Warhawks take on the Crimson Tide.

ZZ Top Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Last-minute tickets available — Rock out with the legendary ZZ Top at this iconic venue.

Evanescence Concert

6-9 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check for ticket details — Experience the powerful sounds of Evanescence live as they promote their latest music.

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check local listings — Experience the unforgettable hits of a legendary music partnership.

Tuscaloosa Oktoberfest 5K

8-9 a.m. — Government Plaza — Registration fees apply — Lace up for a day of fun and purpose while supporting the American Cancer Society.

Peter Noone Live

7-11 p.m. — Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sound of Peter Noone, the iconic lead singer of Herman's Hermits.

Tuscaloosa Taco & Margarita Festival

12-6 p.m. — The Venue — Ticket prices vary — Taste bold tacos, chilled margaritas, and enjoy live music at this ultimate fiesta.