Alabama Basketball Early 2023-24 Lookahead: Wings

Despite losing the best wing in the nation in Brandon Miller and another key member of the rotation in transfer Nimari Burnett, Alabama Basketball could be loaded on the wing in 2023-24. However, the Crimson Tide’s success on the wing will largely depend on unproven newcomers assimilating and performing well, just as they did this past season.

Alabama Basketball expects to return Rylan Griffen, who was a pleasant surprise on the wing as a true freshman in 2022-23. The 6’5” Griffen came off the bench and was, at times, a dangerous three-point shooter in Nate Oats’ offense.

His averages of 6.0 points and 2.5 rebounds per game weren’t exactly eye-popping, but given the depth of Alabama’s rotation it was impressive that Griffen was able to become a factor in year one.

Rylan Griffen only shot 30 percent from the perimeter this year, but he hit multiple three-point shots in 12 games. He had a very promising nine-game stretch from January 21 to February 18 that saw him go 20-42 (47.6 percent) from three.

In those nine games, Griffen hit at least three triples five different times, showing his microwave ability. Needless to say, Alabama needs him to make a big jump in year two, but the potential is there.

Jaykwon Walton joins Alabama Basketball as a transfer from Wichita State. Walton is still awaiting clarification on his eligibility status for the upcoming season, but he would be a massive addition if he is cleared to play.

He is a versatile 6’7” wing that is a proficient outside shooter, which is exactly what the Tide needs. This past season, he averaged 13.9 points per game for the Shockers while shooting 40 percent from downtown.

Alabama Basketball also welcomes in three freshmen, and it may need a member of this group to step up and contribute early.

6’5” Davin Cosby was a 4-star recruit in the class of 2023 who graduated early and reclassified to join the Bama Basketball team for this spring semester. He gained valuable experience practicing and traveling with one of the most successful teams in school history.

Perhaps the head start in getting acclimated to the program will benefit Cosby when his time comes to take the court.

6’8” wing Sam Walters was the highest-ranked member of Alabama’s 2023 recruiting class. He was a 4-star recruit who was ranked 63rd overall in the class. He will be joined on the wing by fellow 4-star Kris Parker. The 6’6” Parker, who was ranked 92nd nationally, was a late addition to the class and committed just last month.

As of now, Alabama Basketball is young but talented on the wing. Look for Coach Oats to potentially add one more veteran scorer at the position, especially if Walton is ruled ineligible.