Freshman forward Jaxon Richardson will suit up for Alabama’s 2026-27 season opener against Sam Houston, but coach Nate Oats has him on a strict minutes restriction. Seriously, that’s how the season kicks off: with one of the most anticipated newcomers already on a short leash. This report, confirmed by Oats to college basketball insider Jon Rothstein on Saturday, Oct. 31, sets a wild tone for Tuesday’s opener.
Richardson’s Road to the Court Has Been Bumpy
You’d think a McDonald’s All-American would hit the ground running, but Richardson’s preseason has been a bit of a rollercoaster. He completely missed Alabama’s first two exhibitions against Furman and Ole Miss, battling what Oats previously called “minor injuries and illness.” He finally got on the court for the exhibition win over Auburn on Oct. 22, logging 10 minutes. While he didn’t put up any points, he still managed to grab a steal and a block. That’s a good sign, showing you the kind of impact he can have even when not fully healthy or in rhythm. Oats has even gushed about Richardson, saying he has the potential to be one of the best defenders he’s ever coached, throwing out comparisons to former Alabama standout Herb Jones. That’s high praise, and it shows why having him limited is such a blow.
Two More Starters Down For Opening Night
As if Richardson’s minutes restriction wasn’t enough, the Crimson Tide’s backcourt is already dealing with some major headaches. Fellow freshman Anderson Diaz is officially “doubtful” for the season opener after suffering a left elbow injury. Oats had said on Oct. 8 that Diaz would be sidelined for about a month, thankfully without needing surgery. Not seeing him in any preseason action already hurt, but being out for the first game is a real punch to the gut. On top of that, Alabama will also be without guard Aden Holloway. He’s serving the final two games of his five-game suspension. So, two freshmen dealing with injury or suspension, and another key player on limited time. What a way to start a season, right?
Alabama hosts Sam Houston at 6:30 p.m. CT Tuesday at Coleman Coliseum. With Richardson limited, Diaz doubtful, and Holloway suspended, the Crimson Tide are going to need some serious effort and adjustments if they want to get this season off on the right foot. You gotta wonder how much these early absences will shape the team’s identity moving forward.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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