Alabama men’s basketball has officially signed four new transfers, strengthening their roster with key additions for the upcoming season.

The Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team, under head coach Nate Oats, has officially signed four new transfers for the 2025-2026 season. With the landscape of college basketball rapidly changing due to the growing influence of the transfer portal, Alabama has strategically bolstered its roster to stay competitive in the SEC and on the national stage. This article will explore the significance of these signings, how they fit into the team’s broader strategy, and what fans can expect from these new additions as the season progresses.
The Transfer Portal Revolution
In recent years, the college basketball transfer portal has fundamentally altered the way teams build their rosters. Once relegated to a few rare exceptions, the transfer portal now allows players to move between programs more freely, providing immediate impact on their new teams. For coaches like Nate Oats, who have embraced the opportunities the portal provides, it has become a critical tool for enhancing their team’s talent pool without needing to rely solely on high school recruiting.
The impact of the portal is particularly evident in the SEC, where competition is fierce, and rosters are loaded with talent. Alabama, which has been one of the top teams in the conference, has used the portal to great effect, adding skilled players who fit the fast-paced, high-pressure style of play that Oats has instilled in Tuscaloosa. By signing four transfers this offseason, Alabama is clearly looking to fortify its squad for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament and challenge for a top spot in the SEC.
The Four New Transfers: What They Bring to the Table
Each of Alabama’s new transfer additions brings unique skills and attributes to the team. From scoring prowess to defensive tenacity, these four players are expected to immediately contribute and help elevate the Crimson Tide’s chances of success in 2025-2026.
1. Trey Alexander (Guard, Transfer from Creighton)
One of the most high-profile additions to Alabama’s roster is guard Trey Alexander, a transfer from Creighton. Alexander had a standout career at Creighton, where he earned All-Big East honors in 2025 after leading the Bluejays to an impressive NCAA Tournament run. The 6’4” guard is known for his ability to score in a variety of ways, including shooting from beyond the arc, driving to the basket, and creating plays for his teammates. His versatility makes him an ideal fit for Oats’ fast-paced offense, which thrives on spacing the floor and moving the ball quickly.
Alexander’s leadership and experience will also be crucial. He’s played in multiple NCAA Tournament games, and his ability to step up in big moments is something that Alabama’s younger players can learn from. His defensive capabilities, particularly his on-ball defense, should help solidify Alabama’s already strong defensive unit.
With his size, scoring ability, and overall game, Alexander has the potential to be one of the most important players for Alabama this season.
2. Jahvon Quinerly (Guard, Transfer from Seton Hall)
Jahvon Quinerly, a transfer from Seton Hall, adds another layer of depth to Alabama’s backcourt. Standing at 6’3”, Quinerly is an explosive guard with exceptional quickness and a knack for attacking the rim. He’s also a dynamic playmaker, capable of dishing out assists while also contributing as a scorer. Quinerly was one of the best guards in the Big East during his time at Seton Hall, where he consistently averaged double-digit points and helped lead his team to a competitive standing in the conference.
Quinerly’s biggest strength lies in his ability to get to the basket and create opportunities for himself and his teammates. In Alabama’s up-tempo style, his ability to push the ball in transition and break down defenses will be invaluable. Additionally, Quinerly’s perimeter defense will help Alabama’s guards in matchups against high-scoring opponents in the SEC.
Quinerly’s leadership and experience in high-pressure situations will also be essential as Alabama faces top-tier competition throughout the season.
3. Kendall Brown (Forward, Transfer from Baylor)
Kendall Brown, a 6’9” forward who previously played at Baylor, brings a unique skill set to Alabama’s frontcourt. Brown is known for his athleticism, length, and versatility. He was one of the standout players during his time at Baylor, where he played a key role in the team’s national championship run in 2021. Brown’s ability to guard multiple positions, block shots, and rebound at a high level will immediately make him a valuable asset for the Crimson Tide.
Offensively, Brown is a capable scorer who excels at finishing around the rim and has a developing outside shot. His physicality and ability to stretch the floor make him a perfect complement to Alabama’s fast-paced offensive system. As a forward, Brown can play both the power forward and small forward positions, giving Oats flexibility in how he uses him throughout the season.
With Brown’s versatility on both ends of the floor, he’s poised to be a key contributor for Alabama and a potential breakout player.
4. Rylan Griffen (Forward, Transfer from North Carolina State)
The final addition to Alabama’s roster is forward Rylan Griffen, who transfers from North Carolina State. Griffen is a 6’7” forward who brings toughness and grit to Alabama’s frontcourt. He’s known for his relentless motor and ability to contribute in all aspects of the game. Griffen’s defensive capabilities, particularly his ability to guard bigger players in the post, will help solidify Alabama’s defense against some of the more physical teams in the SEC.
Offensively, Griffen is a capable scorer who can stretch the floor with his outside shooting and finish around the rim. His ability to be a two-way player makes him an ideal fit for Alabama’s system, which values players who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
The Strategic Impact of These Transfers on Alabama’s 2025-2026 Season
With these four new transfers, Alabama’s roster is stronger, deeper, and more balanced than ever. The Crimson Tide’s frontcourt and backcourt are both strengthened with players who can contribute immediately and provide leadership. Each of these transfers adds a unique element to the team, whether it’s scoring, defense, or versatility, and will allow Oats to adjust his lineup based on matchups.
Alabama’s style of play, characterized by fast breaks, three-point shooting, and a relentless defense, will benefit from the infusion of talent brought in by these transfers. Additionally, with a veteran leadership core and a mix of experienced and younger players, Alabama has the potential to be one of the top teams in the SEC and make a significant run in the NCAA Tournament.
One of the most exciting aspects of these transfers is the versatility they bring to the team. Oats has built his system around players who can adapt to different roles, and these new signings fit perfectly into that mold. Whether it’s pushing the tempo in transition, setting up plays in half-court offense, or locking down opponents defensively, Alabama now has the depth to compete at the highest level.
The Road Ahead: Expectations for Alabama’s 2025-2026 Campaign
With the new transfers in place, expectations for Alabama’s 2025-2026 campaign are high. The Crimson Tide has solidified itself as one of the top teams in the SEC, and with the added depth and talent, they are poised to challenge for a national championship. The new transfers will play a crucial role in Alabama’s success, and fans can expect to see immediate contributions from these players as they adjust to their new roles within the team.
Alabama’s tough non-conference schedule, including matchups against top-tier teams from across the country, will serve as an important proving ground for this new-look roster. The Baha Mar Championship, a showcase tournament in the Bahamas, will be one of the first opportunities for these new transfers to prove their worth in high-stakes games.
As the season progresses, Alabama’s chemistry, particularly between the returning players and the new transfers, will be a key factor in determining how successful they can be. However, with a mix of experience, talent, and depth, there’s no doubt that the Crimson Tide will be a force to be reckoned with throughout the season.
A Bright Future for Alabama Men’s Basketball
With the official signing of four new transfers, Alabama men’s basketball is setting itself up for success in the 2025-2026 season and beyond. Coach Nate Oats has once again demonstrated his ability to build a team that can compete with the best in the SEC and on the national stage. These transfers provide Alabama with the talent, depth, and versatility needed to challenge for both conference and national titles.
While the road to a championship will be filled with challenges, Alabama’s blend of experienced players, new transfers, and strong coaching makes them one of the most dangerous teams in college basketball. The Crimson Tide’s prospects for the upcoming season are bright, and with the talent they’ve added, they have the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and bring home a championship for the program.
In conclusion, Alabama men’s basketball has entered a new era of success with these four key transfers. The season ahead promises to be an exciting one, filled with potential and opportunity for a program that is rapidly rising in national prominence.