How will Alabama replace Latrell Wrightsell Jr. if he can’t play in NCAA Tournament vs. North Carolina?
One of Alabama basketball’s top scoring threats might miss Thursday’s matchup with North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16. Latrell Wrightsell Jr. suffered a head injury in UA’s win over Grand Canyon in the round of 32, and Nate Oats said Wednesday that his ability to play is in question.
Wrightsell is one of UA’s top three-point shooters, and his scoring touch could be sorely missed against the Tar Heels
“Kind of just next man mentality,” Alabama guard Aaron Estrada told AL.com of UA’s attitude if Wrightsell can’t go. “Guys are probably gonna play more. Guys are probably gonna get more shots and we’ve just got to be ready for that.”
Forward Nick Pringle was optimistic about Wrightsell’s chances of playing. However, he felt good about Alabama’s chances, even without the guard.
Pringle praised UA’s ability to adapt.
“I think we’ll still have a great game plan,” Pringle said. “We have a lot of great players and a lot of great coaches that can make adjustments and be able to make it happen.”
Forward Grant Nelson said Alabama has the depth to weather the situation of Wrightsell can’t go. He pointed at Sam Walters as a player who might need to step up in that scenario.
Walters has the shooting ability, but has struggled on defense at times this season. He has improved throughout his freshman campaign, but has not been the contributor that Wrightsell has.
“Obviously Latrell is a really good player,” Walters said. “But whatever happens with him, I think we have a lot of guys that can make shots and do a lot of things, but obviously he helps out a lot.”
With Davin Cosby out for the rest of the season with a foot injury, plus Kris Parker redshirting, Alabama doesn’t have a true guard to replace Wrightsell’s productivity. Walters is much taller, and is more of a hybrid player, while others who could see more minutes, like Mo Dioubate and Jarin Stevenson, are forwards.
However it shakes out, Alabama’s game plan would look different without Wrightsell. However, the Crimson Tide remained optimistic.
“I don’t know about his situation so far, but everybody’s ready to go,” Mo Wague said. “…We’re gonna be ready.”
