Alabama basketball has been dealt a heartbreaking blow as its 23-year-old, 6-foot-3 guard will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024-25 season after suffering a devastating Achilles tendon injury. Head coach Nate Oats confirmed the news on Monday, describing the loss as deeply disappointing for the team and for the player, whose senior season now comes to an abrupt and painful halt. The injury occurred during Alabama’s game against Oregon in the Players Era Festival on Saturday. While battling for an offensive rebound, the guard went down, clutching his leg—a moment that silenced both the crowd and his teammates.
“He did rupture his Achilles tendon,” Oats shared, his voice heavy with emotion. “It’s a tough blow for us, but especially for him. You hate to see a player’s season end like this, especially when they’ve worked so hard to get to this point.” The fifth-year senior, who transferred to Alabama last season, had been averaging 11.7 points per game and was a critical piece of the Crimson Tide’s rotation. His standout performance against Illinois in November, where he scored a season-high 16 points, showcased his talent and dedication.
The road to recovery will be long, but Oats remains optimistic. Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday, and the expectation is a full recovery in time. The team is also considering applying for a medical redshirt to preserve his eligibility, ensuring he has another chance to play the game he loves.
For a player who has given so much to the sport and his teammates, the injury is a cruel twist of fate. “We’re all rallying behind him,” Oats said. “It’s not just about basketball. It’s about supporting him as a person, through what will undoubtedly be one of the toughest challenges of his life.”
Leave a Reply