Report: Former North Dakota State star Grant Nelson to transfer to Alabama
Alabama’s men’s basketball program has made yet another big addition via the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Two months after landing guards Aaron Estrada and Latrell Wrightsell in a two-day span (April 22-23), Bama picked up highly sought-after forward Grant Nelson. Nelson informed Jeff Goodman of his plans to transfer to Alabama on Wednesday. Matt Norlander of CBS Sports also reported Nelson told him of his commitment.
The North Dakota State big man was the highest-rated uncommitted basketball transfer prior to joining forces with the Tide.
Former high school coach raves about Alabama transfer Grant Nelson (On3+)
Nelson chose the Crimson Tide over Arkansas after officially visiting both programs this week.
“It’s great. They’re a solid operation,” Nelson’s father, Nels, told BamaOnLine following their Tuesday through Thursday official visit to Alabama. “Just top-notch. Nothing weak here… this is a top-notch bunch of guys.”
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“[The highlight] was just seeing the professionalism,” Mr. Nelson added. “It’s a whole different level from where I come from. It’s really cool to see a new level of professionalism.”
Head coach Nate Oats made a strong first impression on Nelson’s father during their visit.
“The same stuff all the top-notch guys say: What they do and how they do it,” Mr. Nelson said of Oats’ message. “Real matter of fact, good guy. I just really respect him.”
Commitment Analysis: Impact of Grant Nelson to Alabama
Earlier this year, On3 National Basketball Recruiting Analyst Jamie Shaw did an in-depth breakdown of Nelson’s skill set. You can read the full report HERE, but he had the following to say about the 6-foot-11 forward’s productivity.
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“Nelson scores 1.538 points per possession and shoots a staggering 74.7 percent when finishing at the rim,” Shaw wrote on Jan. 17. “Both the post-ups and isos are generally play-calls that culminate with finishes at the rim. Clearly, this is a strong area for him.
“Nelson is great in transition and crafty, with some pop in the open floor,” Shaw continued. “Facing up and playing off two and three dribbles, he moves confidently and fluidly toward the rim. He has an effective handle with some counters when his pathway gets cut off. He also sets a good target on the block, where he has nice footwork and an array of post moves, counters, and feel.”
Last season, Nelson was a First-Team All-Summit League performer. He averaged 17.9 points on 52.1 percent shooting from the floor. The rising senior also averaged 9.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 blocks per contest for the Bison.
Stay tuned to BamaOnLine for more coverage of Alabama’s newest basketball transfer!
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