Nate Oats and the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball program have undergone a significant roster overhaul this offseason. With movement in and out of the transfer portal, the 2026–27 team is set to look much different from last year’s Sweet 16 squad.
On Sunday night, more bad news hit the wire as star freshman forward Amari Allen announced on his Instagram that he would be declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft. While that’s tough news for Alabama, Allen also noted he will maintain his college eligibility as he tests the draft waters.
What Testing the NBA Draft Waters Means for Amari Allen
Despite his intentions to meet and work out for NBA teams, Allen will have until May 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET to withdraw his name and retain his college eligibility, giving him time to gather feedback from NBA teams throughout the pre-draft process.
If Allen does not like where teams are projecting him to land in June’s draft, he will have the option to return to college and suit up for the Crimson Tide during the 2026-27 college basketball season.
Amari Allen Had a Stellar Freshman Season for the Tide
Allen quickly emerged as one of the biggest surprises of Alabama’s freshman class during the 2025–26 season. After earning a starting role early in the year, the 6-foot-8 forward became a key piece of the Crimson Tide lineup.
In 32 games (24 starts), Allen averaged 11.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. He also shot 44.6% from the field and 34.1% from three-point range. His 6.9 rebounds per game led the Crimson Tide.
His versatility and consistency helped elevate Alabama throughout the season, as he recorded eight games with 15 or more points and finished with five double-doubles.
Amari Allen’s NBA Draft Outlook
Allen is already generating buzz among NBA scouts. According to ESPN’s latest mock draft, he is projected as the No. 28 overall pick, placing him in the late first-round conversation.
If he ultimately declares and stays in the draft, Allen would become Alabama’s first one-and-done player since Brandon Miller and Noah Clowney in 2023.
What This Means for Alabama
For Alabama, Allen’s decision introduces uncertainty heading into the 2026–27 season. If he returns, the Crimson Tide would regain a proven starter and one of its most versatile players. If he stays in the draft, Alabama will need to replace a major contributor on both ends of the floor.
Either way, Allen’s rise from freshman standout to potential first-round pick highlights the program’s continued ability to develop NBA-level talent under the leadership of Nate Oats.
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