Optimism

[Vaughnbama]

The greatest thing in the world is to face the future with realistic optimism. That is Alabama basketball. I look out and see an immediate future with ten players on next years team that could start everywhere. Not to long ago, we often wondered if we had a player that could start anywhere.

Yes, I hurt that we did not accomplish the improbable this year, but with players like Shackelford, Primo, Ellis, Gary, JQ, Miles, Ambrose Hilton, Davison, Frenchmen, and others sure to come, I see a program on the rise. I remember when we were thrilled to get players like Rojas and now the real question is does he even have a place on the roster. What a difference two years makes. On radio I heard talk about the great young coaches in Basketball and Coach Oats was the first name mentioned. Whoa, things have changed.

 

[Bama Swoosh]

Great post - agree 100%. The perception of Bama basketball completely changed nationally and people are taking notice. I really expect us to be ranked in the top 10 to start next season and favored to win the SEC. We should be a damn good team. Great hire by Byrne and so glad we've got Oats. Love how he gave credit to Herb, Petty, and Reese for being the group that helped change the culture and perception of Bama basketball. Love how Oats sees being around Saban as a huge positive and not the negative so many in the media try to say it is. Also loved that Oats wore a plaid jacket, tip of the hat to Wimp Sanderson, who oversaw the best era of Bama ball I've ever seen. Hope that Oats eclipses what Wimp did.

 

[vegas man]

While the team does lose a lot of senior leadership in Herb, Petty, Reese and Bruner there are still some experienced and even more talented players returning. JQ and Shack will be in their 3rd years with the program and Keon Ellis will be a senior. Like most I do not know the future of Rojas but he too would be a senior. Lots of really solid talent and depth from which to choose. Now, in addition to the talented prospects in the 2021 class, if Oats can somehow add 2 of 3 from Burnett, Bediako or Myreon Jones then Bama would definitely have a stacked roster for next season.

 

[EugDan]

Great feeling to have as a fan realizing that regardless who starts, that the 3 or 4 subs that hit the floor may be better than the starters.

 

[pfaud001]

While the team does lose a lot of senior leadership in Herb, Petty, Reese and Bruner there are still some experienced and even more talented players returning. JQ and Shack will be in their 3rd years with the program and Keon Ellis will be a senior. Like most I do not know the future of Rojas but he too would be a senior. Lots of really solid talent and depth from which to choose. Now, in addition to the talented prospects in the 2021 class, if Oats can somehow add 2 of 3 from Burnett, Bediako or Myreon Jones then Bama would definitely have a stacked roster for next season.

Great points. I think Shack and Q will be great leaders.

 

[mtmax]

Great post Vaughn and agree completely.

 

[RollTide15]

Good post. I was never a fan of Rojas and said so at the time.

 

[bama42]

Good post. I was never a fan of Rojas and said so at the time.

I think Rojas plays hard but doesn't have the athleticism or skills we need.