Jahvon Quinerly reflects on Alabama career

There has been one consistent face at Alabama since the Nate Oats era began. Point guard Jahvon Quinerly has been a crucial player over the past three years in Tuscaloosa and was recognized in a big way on Monday. He was named the SEC Sixth Man of the Year, finally snagging an award he competed for two years ago.

Quinerly was asked to reflect on his career, talking about the journey he has been on. From transferring in via Villanova, only being able to practice, and eventually becoming a three-time SEC champion. A remarkable story for Quinerly, even if he was a five-star prospect coming out of high school.

“I probably think about my redshirt year the most,” Quinerly said. “Just how tough that is for me not being able to play. Having to just practice and practice and not being able to play in the games — how hard that was. The following year, win an SEC Championship. It’s been a journey, it really has been.”

Quinerly is currently averaging just under eight points and giving out 3.7 assists per game. Arguably most important when playing for Oats, the point guard is shooting 34.5% from three-point land.

The journey has been a crazy one but Quinerly does not have any regrets. Quinerly said if there was a redo button, he would want nothing to change over the past four years.

“I wouldn’t change anything in my journey because it’s made me the person that I am today,” Quinerly said. “That’s why I’m so honored to receive Sixth Man (of the Year) this year. Even though I felt like I should have won it two years ago.”

Plenty of Alabama players will get the spotlight heading into the SEC Tournament. Brandon Miller won the conference’s Player of the Year Award, while Noah Clowney is projected to be a first-round pick as well. Mark Sears has been the starting point guard all year.

Quinerly will be just as important as any of those guys, having serious NCAA Tournament experience. He will continue to come off the bench but provide great moments for the Crimson Tide. Oats has said Quinerly will be crucial to how Alabama performs in the postseason.

There is still a ton to accomplish this season as well. In fact, Quinerly could come back for another year. No official decision has been made. For now, the focus will be on the SEC and NCAA Tournament for Alabama and Quinerly.