The unexpectancy is back in the NBA as blockbuster trades hit the scene last week. One of the shocking trades in NBA history involved Luka Donic becoming a member of the Los Angeles Lakers while Anthony Davis will be linking up with Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks. Let’s check in on former Crimson Tide basketball players in the NBA as the season continues on.

Tide 100.9 logo
Get our free mobile app

Keon Ellis (Shooting Guard, Sacramento Kings)

Keon Ellis' basketball journey began at Leesburg High School in Florida, where he led his team to back-to-back state championships in 2017 and 2018. A standout player, he earned All-State honors while helping Leesburg dominate Florida high school basketball. He continued his success at Florida SouthWestern State College, where he became one of the top junior college players in the nation. Ellis was named a Second Team NJCAA All-American, averaging 18.7 points per game while leading his team to a 59-5 record over two seasons. Known for his defensive ability and all-around play, he set school records in scoring and steals, making him one of the most sought-after JUCO prospects in the country.

At Alabama, Ellis quickly made an impact with his defensive tenacity and versatility. After a solid first season in 2020-21, he emerged as one of the SEC’s top two-way players in 2021-22, earning a spot on the All-Defensive Team. The only player to start all 33 games, he led Alabama in rebounding, steals, three-point percentage, and free-throw percentage while consistently guarding the opponent’s best players. He delivered standout performances, including a career-best 28 points against No. 5 Kentucky and multiple double-doubles. His relentless effort and defensive excellence made him a key player for the Tide and one of the most well-rounded guards in the SEC.

Ellis has made some waves throughout this season. Ellis is averaging 7.5 points, 2.4 rebounds and shooting 46.3 percent from the field. For the Kings, Ellis is stepping up with the recent depature of De'Aaron Fox. Ellis is a pest on defense that cause havoc in the passing lanes for opposing teams. On offense, Elllis three point shooting expands the floor for other Kings to flourish.

The Kings mix it up with two home and two away games this week. Tonight, the Kings face red-hot Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves at 7:00 p.m. CT. The Kings come home for ther next game as they host Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic at 9:00 p.m. CT. To conclude the week, the New Orleans Pelicans come into town for a matchup at 9:00 p.m. CT on Saturday.

Collin Sexton (Point Guard, Utah Jazz)

Collin Sexton established himself as one of the top high school players in the country while playing at Pebblebrook High School in Georgia. A consensus top-10 recruit, he was ranked as the No. 2 point guard nationally by 247Sports and earned McDonald’s All-American honors. He also starred for Team USA, winning MVP at the FIBA U17 World Championships. Known for his explosive scoring ability, Sexton averaged over 30 points per game on the EYBL circuit and was named Georgia’s Class 7A Player of the Year in 2017. His dominant performances and relentless intensity made him one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation.

At Alabama, Sexton had a sensational freshman season in 2017-18, earning AP Honorable Mention All-America and SEC Co-Freshman of the Year honors. He led the team in scoring with 19.2 points per game and set the program’s freshman scoring record with 632 points. Known for his clutch play, he hit a buzzer-beating game-winner in the SEC Tournament against Texas A&M and scored 31 points to knock out top-seeded Auburn. His 40-point performance against No. 14 Minnesota was the highest by an Alabama player since 1979. Sexton’s ability to take over games and perform under pressure made him a key factor in Alabama’s NCAA Tournament run, where he scored 25 points in a first-round win over Virginia Tech.

Sexton is surging in the right direction as the NBA season continues towards the playoffs. From last week's stretch, Sexton posted 22.6 points through 55 percent from the field and 64 percent from three. Sexton's level of play is trending higher and higher for the Jazz. As a glue for Utah's offense, Sexton's confidence is growing as well.

Tonight, Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers do battle at 8:00 p.m. CT in Utah. On Wednesday, the Jazz conclude their homestand as Stephen Curry comes into town at 8:00 p.m. CT. The Jazz head to Phoenix as they face Kevin Durant and Devin Booker at 9:00 p.m. CT. A trip to Los Angeles concludes the week as they do battle with James Harden and the Clippers on Saturday at 9:30 p.m. CT.

Noah Clowney (Forward, Brooklyn Nets)

Noah Clowney emerged as one of the top high school prospects in South Carolina while playing for Dorman High School under legendary coach Thomas Ryan. A consensus four-star recruit, he was ranked as the No. 1 player in the state and the No. 7 power forward nationally by Rivals. Clowney showcased his versatility and two-way skills at the NBPA Top 100 Camp, earning recognition as one of the top players at the event. He also excelled on the AAU circuit with Team Dickerson Celtics, averaging 17.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. His strong performances attracted offers from several major programs, but he ultimately chose Alabama over Indiana, Virginia Tech, South Carolina, and Georgia Tech.

As a freshman at Alabama in the 2022-23 season, Clowney made an immediate impact, earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors. Starting all 36 games, he averaged 9.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, providing the Crimson Tide with a strong interior presence. He scored in double figures 14 times, led the team in rebounding 14 times, and in blocks eight times. His season-high 22 points in a win over South Dakota State highlighted his offensive potential, while his three double-doubles and eight games with double-digit rebounds showcased his ability to control the glass. Clowney’s all-around contributions played a key role in Alabama’s success, cementing his status as one of the top young big men in the SEC.

Last week, Noah Clowney will likely remain out through the All-Star break due to an injury. Clowney sustained a left ankle sprain in a loss to the Kings. Clowney finished with 6 points through 12 minutes before the injury occurred. The former Crimson Tide's role increased for the Brooklyn Nets along with the younger talent for this squad.

Stay tuned every Monday for an NBA update!

You can catch Alabama's MBK in action after their win against Georgia this Saturday at 7 p.m. CT as they travel to Bud Walton Arena to do battle with Arkansas. John Calipari and his team pulled off an upset win this past weekend against top-ranked Kentucky.  This game will be broadcast on ESPN and aired through Tide 100.9 FM & WTBC 1230 AM.

Chase Brumfield is the morning producer and writer for Tide 100.9. He is currently a senior studying communications at Mississippi State University. Follow Chase for more Alabama content on X at @cb3864.

Hey Dawgs! Tide Hoops Earns Big Win at Home

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama Basketball Claws to Victory Over Mississippi State

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Gallery: Alabama Basketball Survives Upset Alert by LSU

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama's Bench Leads Tide to Important Win Over Vanderbilt

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Ole Miss Hands Alabama its first loss in SEC play

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama Claims its First National Championship Under Nick Saban

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama is Upset by Michigan in 2024 Reliaquest Bowl

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama Thrashes LSU 42-13 in Death Valley

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama Claws to Victory Against Arkansas State

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

Alabama Basketball Dominates in Season-Opening Victory

Gallery Credit: Wyatt Fulton

 

 

More From Tide 100.9