Alabama basketball could target top transfers this offseason to bolster their roster, focusing on positions of need and experience.

As the offseason approaches, college basketball teams are already eyeing the transfer portal to enhance their rosters and address areas of need. Alabama basketball, under head coach Nate Oats, has been a consistently competitive program in the SEC and NCAA, thanks to its fast-paced style of play, talented roster, and commitment to defensive intensity. However, like many programs, Alabama will be looking to bolster their lineup through the transfer portal, especially after key departures and potential gaps in certain areas of the roster.

The transfer portal has become an essential tool for college basketball programs, with high-level talent often changing schools to improve their stock or fit into a new system. For Alabama, which has already established itself as one of the nation’s top programs, bringing in the right transfers could make a difference between maintaining their competitive edge or falling behind in an ever-evolving college basketball landscape.

In this article, we will explore five potential transfer portal targets that Alabama could pursue this offseason. These players represent key areas of need for Alabama, from adding experience to addressing specific skill gaps. While the list of potential targets is fluid and dependent on many variables, these five players could significantly impact Alabama’s quest for another deep NCAA Tournament run.

1. Jaden Ivey – Guard, Purdue (Transfer)

Alabama basketball’s offense has been largely built around perimeter shooting, speed, and playmaking. Adding a player of Jaden Ivey’s caliber could provide an immediate boost to the team’s backcourt. Ivey, one of the most exciting players in college basketball, would be an ideal fit in Nate Oats’ high-tempo system, and he could seamlessly transition into the role of a dynamic guard for Alabama.

At Purdue, Ivey showcased elite athleticism, scoring ability, and an ability to lead the offense, earning All-American honors and being considered one of the top prospects in the 2022 NBA Draft. His time in the portal could be an opportunity for a fresh start, especially if he’s seeking a system that emphasizes transition play and freedom on the offensive end.

For Alabama, Ivey’s experience at a program with the high expectations of Purdue would be invaluable. His ability to create his own shot and score efficiently from the perimeter would be a perfect complement to Alabama’s up-tempo style. Adding Ivey to the roster would provide leadership and a proven ability to take over games, and he could be an immediate impact player as Alabama strives for another NCAA Tournament berth.

2. Antonio Reeves – Guard, Illinois State (Transfer)

Another potential transfer target for Alabama basketball is Antonio Reeves, a prolific scorer from Illinois State. Reeves made a name for himself in the Missouri Valley Conference, where he consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess and offensive versatility. Averaging over 20 points per game, Reeves is known for his ability to score from all three levels, including beyond the arc, in transition, and in the mid-range. His experience as a go-to scorer could be exactly what Alabama needs as they look to bolster their guard play for the upcoming season.

Reeves is an excellent three-point shooter, which would fit well with Alabama’s emphasis on perimeter shooting. His ability to create shots off the dribble and shoot from deep makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. With Alabama’s transition-heavy offense, Reeves’ speed and scoring potential would be put to good use, helping to balance the offensive attack.

Additionally, his time at Illinois State has helped Reeves develop the leadership skills necessary to perform at a high level under pressure. Alabama would benefit from his scoring ability, but also from his experience in competitive games. Whether as a starting guard or coming off the bench, Reeves could make an immediate impact, giving Alabama another scoring option on the wing.

3. Kofi Cockburn – Center, Illinois (Transfer)

While Alabama has enjoyed success in recent years with versatile, guard-heavy lineups, there is always value in having a dominant presence in the paint. Enter Kofi Cockburn, a massive, skilled center from Illinois. Cockburn has proven to be one of the top centers in college basketball, earning All-Big Ten honors and establishing himself as a dominant force on both ends of the floor. Standing at 7 feet tall and weighing 285 pounds, Cockburn provides the size and physicality that could be a game-changer for Alabama in the paint.

Cockburn’s ability to control the paint, both offensively and defensively, would address a key area of need for Alabama, which has sometimes struggled to find consistent post play. Alabama’s fast-paced offense would benefit greatly from Cockburn’s rebounding, shot-blocking ability, and ability to finish around the rim. His size and strength would provide a mismatch against many SEC teams, and having a player who can dominate inside would free up Alabama’s perimeter players to operate with more space.

Defensively, Cockburn is a difference-maker with his ability to alter shots and secure rebounds. His presence on defense would allow Alabama to be more aggressive with their pressing defense and rotations, knowing they have a shot-blocking specialist patrolling the paint. The combination of Cockburn’s inside presence and Alabama’s perimeter play would make them a much more well-rounded team and a true contender in the SEC and NCAA Tournament.

4. Matthew Mayer – Forward, Baylor (Transfer)

Matthew Mayer, a versatile forward from Baylor, is another potential transfer that Alabama could target. Mayer played a significant role in Baylor’s national championship run and has shown his ability to impact the game in various ways. Known for his ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting, Mayer provides scoring versatility and strong defense. His experience playing on a championship team would be invaluable to an Alabama team looking to make another deep run in the postseason.

Mayer is an excellent defender, with the ability to guard multiple positions, and his length makes him a tough matchup for opposing teams. Alabama’s aggressive defensive style would suit Mayer’s skill set, as he excels in both man-to-man and help defense. Additionally, Mayer has shown the ability to score in a variety of ways, whether from the three-point line, in the post, or as a slasher.

His leadership experience, having been part of a championship program at Baylor, would provide Alabama with an invaluable veteran presence. Mayer’s ability to impact both ends of the floor would give Alabama more balance and depth, particularly as they look to replace any potential departures from their frontcourt.

5. Jalen Duren – Forward, Memphis (Transfer)

Jalen Duren, a highly regarded forward from Memphis, is another intriguing transfer portal target for Alabama basketball. Duren was a standout during his freshman season, showcasing incredible athleticism, rebounding ability, and shot-blocking. With his 6-foot-9 frame and high motor, Duren would provide Alabama with an immediate physical presence, particularly in the post.

While Duren’s offensive game is still developing, his defense and rebounding ability would be an instant upgrade for Alabama. His ability to contest shots, protect the rim, and dominate the boards would fit perfectly with Alabama’s high-pressure, fast-paced system. Duren’s athleticism allows him to run the floor, which would complement Alabama’s fast-break offense.

His potential to become an elite defender at the collegiate level makes him an appealing prospect for Alabama. With more seasoning, Duren could become a centerpiece of the team’s defense while also providing the Crimson Tide with another option on offense. If Alabama is looking for a versatile, athletic forward with potential for growth, Duren is a player to keep an eye on.