Alabama basketball forward Derrion Reid has entered the NCAA transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation, indicating he likely already has a destination in mind
Derrion Reid, a five-star forward who signed with the Alabama Crimson Tide in January 2024, has entered the NCAA transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation. This status suggests that Reid has already identified his next destination, and his recruitment is effectively closed to other programs. Given his high profile as a top-25 national recruit, his transfer is a significant development in college basketball.
Background on Derrion Reid
Reid, standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 200 pounds, hails from Grovetown, Georgia. Before transferring to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, for his senior year, he led Grovetown High School to a state championship. During his time with Team Thad on the Nike EYBL Circuit, Reid averaged 17.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.
In December 2023, Reid committed to Alabama over offers from programs like Georgia and Florida State. Head coach Nate Oats praised Reid’s offensive versatility and defensive capabilities, highlighting his elite athleticism and potential to impact the game in multiple ways.
Reid’s Tenure at Alabama
Reid’s time at Alabama was brief. He appeared in 20 games during his freshman season, averaging 6.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 43.1%. Despite his potential, Reid faced challenges, including injuries that limited his playing time and development.
The Transfer Decision
Reid’s decision to enter the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag indicates a clear intention to move on from Alabama. While specific reasons for his departure have not been publicly detailed, such decisions often stem from factors like seeking more playing time, fitting better with another program’s system, or personal considerations.
Potential Landing Spots
Given Reid’s status as a five-star recruit and his demonstrated talent, several programs could be interested in securing his services. However, the “do not contact” designation implies that Reid has already committed to a new team, and his recruitment is closed to other suitors. As of now, the details of his next destination remain undisclosed.
Impact on Alabama Basketball
Reid’s departure adds to a series of roster changes for Alabama. The Crimson Tide have seen several players enter the transfer portal, prompting the coaching staff to seek new talent to maintain competitiveness. While Reid’s exit is a loss, it also opens opportunities for other players to step up and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming seasons.
Looking Ahead
As Reid transitions to his new program, he will likely aim to fulfill the potential that made him a top-25 national recruit. His next destination will be keenly watched by college basketball enthusiasts, eager to see how his career unfolds. For Alabama, the focus will shift to integrating new talent and developing existing players to ensure
Derrion Reid’s entry into the transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation signifies a forthcoming change in his collegiate basketball journey. While specifics about his next destination are yet to be revealed, his high profile ensures that his transfer will be a notable event in the college basketball landscape. Both Reid and Alabama will look to new opportunities as they move forward.
