Head coach Nate Oats should have fans around the SEC on notice about the future of Alabama basketball, especially with the mixture of young and experienced talent. Several new names should quickly make their mark for the Crimson Tide, including a key transfer from Villanova in Jahvon Quinerly, who was already sitting out.
But Oats was able to secure a key transfer from Yale, along with a junior college prospect, and a few top prospects part of the 2020 recruiting class.
So, we start to dive into the incoming class and new names that will look to contribute for Alabama coming years.
Jordan Bruner – Yale/ Graduate transfer
Forward
Bruner brings size and experience down low for Alabama. He has appeared in 83 games and started in 53, finishing last season averaging 10.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, while shooting 44 percent from the floor. Bruner’s ability to spread the floor as well (averaged 3.5 3-pointer attempts last season) make him even tougher, as he will be able to be a playmaker from the perimeter as well as being a big-time inside presence. With his experience, ability, and ability to play on both sides of the ball, Bruner should make his name known very quickly with the fans at Alabama.
Keon Ellis – Florida SW State College / Junior College transfer
Shooting Guard
Ellis will be an intriguing one to watch, as the 6’6 prospect averaged 18 points this past season. He shot nearly 54 percent from the floor and 40 percent from three. He has the ability to score on multiple levels, can get his shots in volumes and has garnered experience, playing in 64 games at Florida SW State. How he will transition to Sec basketball will be fun to watch down the road.
Josh Primo – 6’6 guard
Primo has regarded as the top prospect coming in for the 2020 recruiting class and there is a lot to like about the lengthy guard. Primo has fantastic size and skill for a guard, as he will be able to provide another ballhandler but a scorer as well. He can rise up over defenders with his shot, hitting on multiple levels, uses his length to his advantage to attack over basket, and just has a natural feel with the ball in his hands.
Darius Miles – 6’7 small forward
Miles is another 6’7 prospect that can play multiple positions. According to Oates, Miles brings a lot of intrigue with his passing ability and ability to handle the ball. He played for IMG’s postgraduate team, in which he averaged 12.1 points per game.
Keon Ambrose – 6’7 small forward
Ambrose is a developing prospect that still has room to grow, which is something that will be highly intriguing to watch. He brings a 6’7 long frame with great size and athleticism to floor. Ambrose’s ability to put the ball on the deck, run the floor, and defend multiple positions will be a big part for Alabama down the road. With his ability to play down low, get on the boards, but also put the ball on the floor and attack, Ambrose will be fun to watch down the road.