Alabama Men’s basketball Announces return of key freshman from the Tide’s Elite Eight run

The Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team has announced the return of several key players from their 2024 Final Four run, bolstering their roster for the upcoming 2024–25 season. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the momentum from their historic NCAA Tournament performance and position the team for another deep postseason run.
Sears, a standout point guard, led the team with an average of 21.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game during the 2023–24 season. His decision to return for his fifth year of eligibility provides the Crimson Tide with a seasoned leader and offensive catalyst. Sears’ experience and scoring ability are expected to be pivotal in guiding the team through the challenges of the upcoming season.

Nelson made significant contributions last season, averaging 11.9 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. His performances in the NCAA Tournament, including a 24-point, 12-rebound game against North Carolina, highlighted his potential. His decision to return for another season adds depth and versatility to the frontcourt.

After transferring from Cal State Fullerton, Wrightsell Jr. averaged 8.9 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. He showcased his scoring ability with notable performances, including a 21-point, 10-rebound game against LSU. His return provides the team with a reliable perimeter scorer and experienced backcourt presence.Stevenson emerged as a key contributor during the NCAA Tournament, particularly in the Elite Eight against Clemson, where he scored 19 points. His decision to return for his sophomore season adds a promising talent to the team’s frontcourt rotation.

In his freshman season, Dioubate averaged 2.9 points and 2.4 rebounds per game. He demonstrated his potential with a double-double performance against Houston, recording 10 points and 16 rebounds. His return offers the team additional depth and energy in the forward position.

The Crimson Tide have also bolstered their roster with several highly regarded freshmen:Ranked as the No. 10 overall recruit, Reid is a versatile wing player known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess. His addition provides the team with a dynamic and athletic presence on the court.
Philon, a former Mr. Basketball, averaged 12.1 points per game as a freshman. His scoring ability and playmaking skills are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s backcourt depth.
Cunningham brings length and athleticism to the forward position. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor adds versatility to the team’s lineup.

With the return of key players and the addition of talented freshmen, the Alabama Crimson Tide are poised to be a formidable force in the 2024–25 season. The combination of experienced leadership and youthful energy provides a balanced roster capable of competing at the highest level. Head Coach Nate Oats will look to harness this talent to build upon last season’s success and pursue a national championship.

The team’s depth, versatility, and cohesion make them one of the top contenders in the Southeastern Conference and on the national stage. As the season progresses, the Crimson Tide’s performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, eager to see how this talented roster translates into success on the court.

The return of seasoned veterans like Mark Sears and Grant Nelson gives Alabama a vital competitive edge. Sears, in particular, brings poise and leadership, often functioning as an on-court coach for younger players. His maturity in late-game situations and ability to control the pace of play were instrumental in Alabama’s deep NCAA Tournament run.

Sears’ basketball IQ and calm demeanor complement the aggressive, fast-paced system that Head Coach Nate Oats employs. As a fifth-year senior, he will likely wear the mantle of team captain, mentoring the incoming freshman class while continuing to dominate as a top scoring threat. His return not only keeps Alabama nationally relevant but has also influenced recruiting and player retention.

Grant Nelson’s decision to return similarly cannot be overstated. His unique combination of size, ball-handling, and shooting touch makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. As one of the few big men with the ability to stretch the floor and attack off the dribble, Nelson’s versatility fits seamlessly into Coach Oats’ “positionless” basketball philosophy. His postseason experience will be invaluable in the high-pressure moments of the upcoming season.

### Building a Frontcourt with Depth and Versatility

Jarin Stevenson and Mouhamed Dioubate round out what is quickly becoming one of the most dynamic frontcourts in the nation. Stevenson, a former five-star recruit, flashed glimpses of star potential during the NCAA Tournament. His size, shooting range, and ability to run the floor make him a perfect fit in Alabama’s high-octane offense. With another offseason of development, he could emerge as one of the top sophomores in the country.

Mouhamed Dioubate, while not as polished offensively, provides grit, hustle, and rebounding. His motor is relentless, often giving Alabama crucial second-chance opportunities. Dioubate’s willingness to do the dirty work—dive for loose balls, take charges, fight for rebounds—makes him a fan favorite and an invaluable teammate. Expect his role to expand in the 2024–25 season.

Together, Nelson, Stevenson, and Dioubate offer a formidable trio capable of switching defensively, rebounding aggressively, and scoring from multiple areas on the court.

### Sharpening the Backcourt Blade

In addition to Sears, Alabama’s backcourt depth will be anchored by Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and an exciting group of newcomers. Wrightsell’s ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc and create his own offense gives Alabama another layer of scoring punch. His transition from a role player to a more consistent scorer could be the x-factor in tight conference games.

Labaron Philon, one of the nation’s top freshman guards, adds firepower and flair to the backcourt. Philon is known for his quick first step, court vision, and elite ball-handling. While he may begin the season coming off the bench, he has the tools to evolve into a starter or sixth man capable of swinging games with his energy and creativity.

### New Faces, Big Expectations

The addition of five-star forward Derrion Reid has Crimson Tide fans buzzing. At 6’8″, Reid brings length, athleticism, and a two-way game. He is already drawing comparisons to NBA-ready wings for his ability to defend multiple positions, handle the ball in transition, and score from all three levels. Reid could be a one-and-done player, but his immediate impact will be felt on both ends of the floor.

Naas Cunningham, a 6’7″ small forward, arrives with a reputation as a lockdown defender with tremendous upside. His long wingspan and lateral quickness allow him to guard positions 1 through 4, making him an essential part of Alabama’s defensive scheme. Offensively, Cunningham is a work in progress, but his potential is undeniable. Coach Oats and his staff are expected to utilize his defensive prowess early and help develop his offensive confidence throughout the season.

### Continuity in Coaching and Culture

A critical yet often overlooked aspect of Alabama’s sustained success has been the consistency within the coaching staff. Head Coach Nate Oats, now entering his sixth season in Tuscaloosa, has built a culture centered around pace, spacing, and tenacity. The “blue-collar basketball” ethos emphasizes unselfish play, defensive intensity, and high-effort practices. Under his guidance, the Crimson Tide have not only returned to national prominence but are consistently competing at the highest level.

Coach Oats’ ability to both develop talent and manage egos has been lauded by players and analysts alike. His relationships with players go beyond the court, fostering a tight-knit team chemistry that translates into cohesive gameplay. The return of key players is not just about basketball—it’s a testament to the trust and loyalty he has built with his roster.

### Challenging SEC Landscape

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) is expected to be one of the most competitive in college basketball next season. With powerhouses like Kentucky reloading, Arkansas making noise in the transfer portal, and Tennessee continuing their defensive dominance, Alabama’s path to a conference title won’t be easy.

However, Alabama has one of the most balanced and experienced rosters in the league. While other teams are integrating a flood of transfers and new recruits, the Crimson Tide benefit from continuity, experience, and internal development. This stability gives them a head start in building early-season chemistry and executing complex offensive and defensive schemes.

### National Title Aspirations

The 2024–25 season isn’t just about returning to the NCAA Tournament—it’s about winning the whole thing. Alabama has all the ingredients of a national championship team: experienced leadership, elite talent, positional versatility, and coaching excellence. Their performance in last year’s Final Four proved they can compete with the nation’s best. Now, the focus is on taking the final step.

Mark Sears’ decision to return has sparked championship chatter, with some analysts placing Alabama in their preseason top five. His presence, combined with the return of Nelson, Wrightsell, and Stevenson, as well as the arrival of Reid and Philon, has created one of the deepest and most dangerous rotations in the country.

A Legacy in the Making

The return of these key players, particularly rising sophomore Jarin Stevenson, marks a pivotal moment in Alabama basketball history. Stevenson’s decision to bypass the NBA Draft and return to Tuscaloosa for his sophomore year represents more than just a roster move—it symbolizes the strength of the program, the loyalty of its players, and the unfinished business this group is determined to resolve.

Alabama’s 2023–24 Elite Eight run redefined expectations for the program. But in the eyes of Coach Oats and his returning core, it was only the beginning. The 2024–25 Crimson Tide are deeper, wiser, and more battle-tested. With a blend of star power, experience, and youthful exuberance, this team has the chance to do something truly special.

As the season approaches, fans will fill Coleman Coliseum with dreams of cutting down nets, and the Tide’s veterans and newcomers alike will look to turn those dreams into reality. The journey begins now—and Alabama is ready.