Alabama’s men’s basketball team had a strong run last season, reaching the Elite Eight before falling to Duke in an 85-65 defeat. As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Crimson Tide aims to push further, perhaps even back to the Final Four, as they achieved in 2024.
Coach Nate Oats remains optimistic about his revamped lineup despite losing key players. Here’s our analysis of Alabama’s potential on their path to glory in San Antonio, the 2026 Final Four site.
Alabama’s Men’s Basketball Team’s Potential Final Four Road in 2025-26
Last season, Alabama was an offensive big shot, averaging 90.8 points per game, ranking among the nation’s elite. Their fast-paced style was formidable until Duke stifled them in the Elite Eight. The roster has since taken significant hits. Mark Sears, a consensus First Team All-American, and Grant Nelson, a key forward, have exhausted their eligibility.
Clifford Omoruyi, a defensive anchor, and Chris Youngblood are also gone. Mohamed Dioubate has entered the transfer portal and committed to Kentucky. Freshman Labaron Philon, a potential one-and-done star, is projected to enter the 2025 NBA Draft, though no final decision has been confirmed.
Despite the turnover, there’s still some optimism. Oats, a master at rebuilding, has assembled a promising new core. Transfers like Noah Williamson (7’0”, from Bucknell) and Taylor Bol Bowen (6’10”, from Florida State) bolster the frontcourt, addressing last season’s defensive weaknesses in the paint.
Jalil Bethea, a highly touted guard transfer from Miami, adds scoring potential. Incoming freshmen Amari Allen, a top-50 recruit from Wisconsin, Davion Hannah, and London Jemison bring versatility and depth. Returners like Aiden Sherrell, a 6’10” center with high potential, and Aden Holloway, who shot 41% from three last season, provide continuity and scoring.
The schedule is not easy at all. Alabama faces SEC powerhouses like Auburn, Kentucky, and Tennessee, all 2025 NCAA Tournament teams. Based on last season’s slate, non-conference matchups could include challenging games against teams like Purdue or Illinois, though the 2025-26 schedule is not yet finalized. The SEC sent eight teams to the 2025 NCAA Tournament, highlighting the conference’s depth and competitiveness.
Oats inspires confidence among his players with his track record. Since 2019, he’s led Alabama to two SEC titles (2021, 2023) and a Final Four in 2024, where they fell to eventual champion UConn. His teams play fast and score heavily, posting 100+ points in multiple games in recent seasons. Fans have high expectations for another deep run.
However, the path to the Final Four won’t be easy. Alabama’s offense must remain potent without Sears and Philon. Holloway, Sherrell, and Bethea could fill the scoring void, but cohesion is critical.
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Defense, a 2024-25 weakness (allowing 81.1 points per game), should improve with Williamson and Bowen’s size and athleticism. A top-four seed is achievable if the team gels early, but a 5-8 seed is more likely given the roster overhaul. Injuries, like Latrell Wrightsell Jr.’s Achilles tear last season, or chemistry issues could pose risks, though Wrightsell’s expected return with a medical redshirt adds experience.
For now, Alabama’s blend of fresh talent, strategic transfers, and Oats’ coaching keeps dreams of San Antonio alive. The Crimson Tide has the pieces for a deep run, but they must prove themselves against a stacked SEC and beyond.
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