Alabama men’s basketball’s season will begin without one of its most promising newcomers. Jalil Bethea’s recent injury, a broken pinky toe, is expected to sideline him until late November, a setback that forces several players to step up in his absence.
With this expected timeline, Bethea is slated to miss several key matchups early in the year, including games against St. John’s, Purdue, Illinois and potentially Gonzaga. Complicating matters, the Crimson Tide will return only five players from last year’s roster, signaling change for head coach Nate Oats’ squad.
Four players stand out who can step up their game to compensate for Bethea’s absence.
Guards:
Houston Mallette
After earning his medical redshirt last season, Mallette will return to the Crimson Tide roster this season and is expected to take on a larger role in light of Bethea’s injury. Mallette’s leadership and positivity in the locker room reinforces what Oats wants within his roster, and his selflessness should boost the team throughout the season.
“For me to be able to get the opportunity to come back and get a medical redshirt, get another year, and get a second degree is a blessing. I’m really excited to be back here,” Mallette said.
While only playing a limited number of games last year, Mallette shot 58% from the field and 50% from 3. In an expanded role, he could be a major contributor from beyond the 3-point line while also making an impact defensively.
Latrell Wrightsell
Returning from a medical redshirt as well, Wrightsell is poised to be a key contributor to Alabama’s roster this season. A career 38% 3-point shooter, Wrightsell helps space the floor, which can open up opportunities for those around him. In addition to being an excellent 3-point shooter, Wrightsell plays with relentless energy and frequently draws contact, getting to the free-throw line with ease. He can play a complementary role alongside Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway, who are both expected to handle primary ball-handling duties.
Wrightsell was cleared for non-contact work, and head coach Nate Oats said the team anticipates that he’ll be ready to play by the first game.
Forwards
Amari Allen
One overlooked player this season is Amari Allen. Although listed at forward, Allen can play multiple positions and adapt to any role on the court. He excels at passing, ball handling and 3-point shooting. Allen was named the 2024 Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year. In addition to this honor, Allen was ranked 64th in his class and 15th at his own position.
“Amari is an elite wing that has the ability to play multiple positions due to his size, IQ and high skill level,” Oats said.
If Allen meets his projection, he could not only assume Bethea’s responsibilities but also take on a larger role within the roster this season.
Keitenn Bristow
Capping off this list is forward Keitenn Bristow, an incoming transfer from Tarleton State, where he was named the 2025 WAC Freshman of the Year.
At Tarleton State, he averaged 11.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, and 1.4 APG. He also shot 46% from the floor and 32.8% from 3-point range.
Bristow stands at 6-foot-10 and will serve as a towering presence who can space the floor from the 3-point line and rebound efficiently. The Crimson Tide will rely on his paint presence and his touch around the rim, including a smooth hook shot and consistent fadeaway shots.
He can generate scoring opportunities for himself and open passing lanes, which will be crucial for the offense’s rhythm.
Alabama will return to the court for an exhibition game versus Florida State in the Ballin In Boutwell exhibition game. The game is set to take place at 7 p.m. CT from Boutwell Auditorium in Birmingham.
