In the lead-up to the NCAA Tournament, Alabama Crimson Tide basketball fans were concerned about the availability of senior forward Grant Nelson. Nelson, who had been pivotal in Alabama’s deep tournament run the previous year, sustained a knee injury during the SEC Tournament loss to Florida. This injury led to questions about his readiness for the opening game against Robert Morris.
Head coach Nate Oats addressed these concerns by stating that Nelson would be available to play but would not start. Oats emphasized a cautious approach, mentioning that they would assess Nelson’s condition after warm-ups to determine his role during the game.
Despite initial reservations, Nelson’s impact was immediate upon entering the game. With Alabama’s lead narrowing, Nelson checked in with just under nine minutes remaining. His presence was transformative; he scored five points and grabbed three rebounds in seven minutes, contributing significantly to Alabama’s 90-81 victory. His alley-oop dunk reinvigorated the team, helping to regain and maintain the lead.
Nelson’s performance underscored his resilience and importance to the team. Reflecting on his decision to play despite the injury, he remarked, “I don’t want this to be the last game of our season, so I’m going to do what I can to help us get a win.”
Looking ahead, Alabama’s path in the tournament appears promising. The team is positioned in the East Region, alongside other strong contenders like Duke and Arizona. Analysts suggest that the region’s favorable matchups could facilitate Alabama’s progress, especially if Nelson continues to recover and contribute at a high level.
In summary, Grant Nelson’s availability and performance in Alabama’s NCAA Tournament opener were crucial. His decision to play through injury and deliver impactful minutes highlights his dedication and the team’s depth. As the tournament advances, Nelson’s health and continued contribution will be vital to Alabama’s aspirations for a national championship.
