Alabama basketball manager Charlie Wilson dies at 20
Alabama basketball manager Charlie Wilson has died at the age of 20, according to a post by the school on Wednesday morning. He died after a fall caused by a seizure, according to the Tuscaloosa News.
Charlie Wilson developed a connection to Alabama basketball at an early age, attending youth basketball camps at Coleman Coliseum where he met assistant coach and former player Antoine Pettway. Once he enrolled at the University of Alabama, he worked to become a student manager.
Head coach Nate Oats, who is in Florida for the SEC’s spring meetings, gave a quote to the Tuscaloosa News’ Nick Kelly about the tragic loss.
“He brought a ton of energy to the program,” Oats said. “He worked really hard. He was in it to serve the players and make the program better.”
“Alabama basketball meant a lot to him. He meant a lot to us. Really sad for us to hear of his passing. A really unfortunate circumstance. Condolences to his family. Tough deal. After (super fan Luke Ratliff died in April 2021) and now him, it’s just kind of back to back years now. It’s hard.”
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The other Alabama basketball managers have set up a GoFundMe page with all proceeds going toward funeral costs. The link to that page can be found here.
Alabama coaches, players react
Many of Alabama’s players noticed his impact on the program and took time on Wednesday to share their condolences on social media. Nimari Burnett, who transferred from Texas Tech last season but sat out with injury, posted “RIP my guy,” on his Instagram story. Former player Jaden Shackelford, who entered the NBA Draft this year, also posted “RIP Dubbs.”
Alabama center Charles Bediako posted, “Gone too soon. RIP brother.”
Alabama basketball assistant Bryan Hodgson provided a lengthier reaction to the news, tweeting about the man Wilson was and how he impacted those he encountered.
“This one really hurts,” Hodgson said. “Lost my buddy. A guy that made everyone smile and brightened every room he walked into… Rest In Peace “Dubbs” we will miss you brother. Cold Mickey’s are going to hit a little different from now on.”