Alabama Basketball Adds Wichita State Transfer

Nate Oats has already started to move on from Friday's loss to San Diego State in the Sweet 16, landing 6-foot-7 wing Jaykwon (JAY-kwan) Walton from the Witchita State Shockers Tuesday afternoon.

Across 28 games in his junior season for the Shockers, Walton averaged 13.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. He also shot 53.5 percent from the field and 40 percent from behind the arc.

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Walton is no stranger to the state of Alabama either, graduating from Carver High School in Montgomery. After suffering numerous injuries his first two collegiate seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs, Walton transferred to Shelton State in Tuscaloosa.

At Shelton State, Walton averaged 12.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. After revitalizing his game at the JUCO level, Walton verbally committed to Mississippi State, but was granted a release from his letter of intent after coach Ben Howland exited the program.

Walton led the Shockers in scoring and was one of four players to average double-digit points, including Alabama transfer forward James Rojas. Walton performed well against elite competition, scoring a season-high 24 points against No. 3 Houston.

When describing Walton, Shockers head coach Isaac Brown described abilities that are highly coveted by Alabama coach Nate Oats.

"Jaykwon is another experienced guy who can help us out at multiple positions because of his size, skill and athleticism," Brown said. "He’s an unselfish player with great court vision and has the capacity to be a big-time defender for us."

This is a big transfer addition for the Crimson Tide, as Brandon Miller and Noah Clowney are projected first round draft picks. Both Miller and Clowney brought great length, athleticism, defense, and shooting ability that Walton also provides.

Alabama was quick to fill a scholarship spot after veteran guard Nimari Burnett entered the transfer portal Tuesday morning.