Aden Holloway has 'changed,' Nate Oats says, to be leader for Alabama basketball
Aden Holloway's future with Alabama basketball was uncertain after a marijuana arrest in March. Now, he's emerging as a leader for the Tide.
Alabama basketball coach Nate Oats revealed that Aden Holloway has transformed into a different player this year during a preview of the team's upcoming game against Arkansas State on November 6. Holloway, a senior guard, is currently serving a five-game suspension following a marijuana arrest that barred him from participating in last season's Sweet 16 run. However, the six-time All-SEC player's internal growth is evident, according to Oats.
Oats praised Holloway's character, noting how the player's response to adversity has positioned him as an unexpected leader for the Crimson Tide. Holloway, who transferred from Auburn before the 2024-25 season, is now Alabama's longest-tenured player, having played three seasons with the team. The coach emphasized that Holloway's evolution is both on and off the court, and his growth has been apparent since the start of summer workouts.
Although Holloway has yet to return to competition, Oats believes the player's return will bring more than just his established game. Holloway averaged 16.8 points and 3.8 assists last season while shooting 43.8% from the three-point range. As Alabama prepares for one of its most productive returning players to rejoin the rotation, Oats expects Holloway to make his season debut against Oakland on November 9.
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