Alabama Basketball’s Strategic Coaching Shake-Up: Ryan Pannone’s Departure and the Arrival of NBA Veteran Brian Adams
In a significant development for Alabama Crimson Tide basketball, head coach Nate Oats has officially replaced assistant coach Ryan Pannone with NBA veteran Brian Adams. This move marks a pivotal shift in Alabama’s coaching staff, reflecting Oats’ commitment to enhancing the program’s competitiveness on the national stage.
Ryan Pannone joined Alabama’s coaching staff in June 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from his time with the New Orleans Pelicans and their G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron. Known for his expertise in player development and strategic game planning, Pannone contributed to Alabama’s high-scoring offense, which averaged 91 points per game during the 2024-25 season. Under his guidance, the team set a NCAA Tournament record by making 25 three-pointers in a Sweet 16 victory .
Pannone’s departure to become the head coach at Arkansas State in April 2025 opened the door for a new direction in Alabama’s coaching strategy.
To fill the void left by Pannone, Coach Oats has hired Brian Adams, a seasoned NBA assistant coach with over a decade of experience. Adams’ most recent position was with the Detroit Pistons during the 2023-24 season. Prior to that, he served under Doc Rivers with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers, including a stint as the head coach of the Clippers’ G League team .
Adams is expected to focus on enhancing Alabama’s defensive strategies, an area where he has demonstrated considerable expertise throughout his coaching career . His appointment is seen as a strategic move to balance the team’s high-powered offense with a more robust defensive framework.
The reshuffling of the coaching staff signifies Alabama’s proactive approach to maintaining its competitive edge in college basketball. With Adams’ NBA experience and Pannone’s successful tenure, the Crimson Tide are poised to continue their upward trajectory. This strategic coaching change underscores Alabama’s commitment to excellence and its aspiration to secure a national championship in the near future.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Coach Oats and his revamped coaching staff to see how these changes translate into performance on the court. The integration of Adams’ defensive acumen with the team’s established offensive prowess could be the key to Alabama’s pursuit of its first-ever national title.
