Alabama's Nick Pringle joins team in Spokane ahead of NCAA Tournament

When Alabama traveled to Spokane for their first NCAA Tournament game against Charleston, rumors began to swirl surrounding Nick Pringle not being on the flight. On Thursday, he was seen boarding a commercial flight but was heading out West to join the team. No information came from head coach Nate Oats, leaving people wondering about Pringle’s status.

Luckily for Alabama fans, a positive update has been provided. Pringle was seen with the team when walking into the arena for practice. Brian Hamilton of The Athletic later revealed Pringle was dealing with a personal matter, causing him to fly separately.

“My brothers, I’m willing to do anything for them,” Pringle said via Nick Kelly of The Tuscaloosa News. “I’m not going to let anything come in between that… Being here just makes my day. I’m willing to do anything it takes to win, to help this team go on a run.”

You can watch the tournament live on Prime Video, add on your favorite channels and watch at home or on your phone and laptop at work!

Pringle has played in 29 games this season, spending some time in the starting lineup. Averaging 6.9 points per game, he is the sixth-leading scorer for Alabama. However, his 5.0 rebounds a night is good enough for third.

Oats later confirmed Pringle will be available on Friday. A big piece of news for the Crimson Tide just over 24 hours ahead of their game.

Nick Pringle enjoying success as Alabama enters NCAA Tournament

Pringle has been a key player for Alabama this season despite being suspended at times. He might not be a three-point threat like the rest of the roster but Pringle does have an important role. Oats has not been afraid to play him alongside Grant Nelson either, giving Alabama some size.

Not much went right during the SEC Tournament loss to Florida but Pringle was a bright spot. Twelve points and 10 rebounds meant he recorded his second double-double of the season. Pringle has scored in double-figures in seven straight games, playing really well down the stretch.

Charleston does play a similar style to Alabama, wanting to run the court while getting early looks at threes. Pringle could have an opportunity to once again have success when cleaning up the offensive glass or given a paint touch.

Things will get started from Spokane on Friday at 6:35. Alabama is hoping to make another run to the second weekend while Charleston is looking for the program’s first NCAA Tournament win since 1997. A good one, especially for a 4-seed vs. 13-seed, should be on tap for all of us to watch.