Oats Using Portal to Nab Stand Outs On and Off the Court

Nate Oats has taken full advantage of the allure of a big brand like Alabama's when recruiting in the transfer portal since the change that allowed players to play immediately after transferring.

This year, the former MAC leading scorer and Ohio University star Mark Sears has been an integral piece of Alabama's game plan and production, helping the team go 16-1 so far in conference play and be the No. 2 team in the country currently.

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However, Oats isn't just bringing in on the court stars, he's brought in an off the court star, too.

Former Furman forward Noah Gurley, who transferred to Alabama in the summer of 2021, has been named to the Southeastern Conference's Community Service Team along with 13 other players, one from each SEC program.

Oats has also said that despite the lack of minutes on the hardwood, Gurley has been a vocal leader and communicator for the team, helping deliver messages in the huddle.

Gurley and the Tide have already secured an uncontested regular season SEC Championship. After Saturday's regular season finale in Aggieland, the team will turn its attention to the SEC Tournament, and then to the NCAA Tournament.