Alabama Basketball Star Latrell Wrightsell Jr. Officially Granted Medical Redshirt for 2025-26 Season, Huge Boost for Crimson Tide

The Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball program has received major news ahead of the 2025-26 season. Senior guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr., one of the team’s most experienced and versatile contributors, has officially been granted a medical redshirt by the NCAA, allowing him to return to Tuscaloosa for an additional season of eligibility.

The announcement comes as a significant boost for head coach Nate Oats and the Crimson Tide, who are coming off another strong campaign but face roster turnover with key departures to the NBA and graduation. Wrightsell’s return provides Alabama with veteran leadership, scoring ability, and defensive tenacity — all critical components for a team with aspirations of contending on both the SEC and national stages.

Wrightsell, a 6-foot-3 guard known for his perimeter shooting and defensive instincts, initially transferred to Alabama from Cal State Fullerton ahead of the 2023-24 season. After a productive junior year in Tuscaloosa, expectations were high for Wrightsell to play a leading role in 2024-25. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his campaign, limiting him to only six games as he battled persistent health setbacks.

The medical redshirt application was submitted shortly after it became clear Wrightsell would not be able to return to full strength during the 2024-25 season. The NCAA’s decision to approve his medical hardship waiver means he retains one final year of eligibility, granting him a unique opportunity to finish his college career on his terms.

For Alabama, Wrightsell’s return solves several roster concerns entering the 2025-26 season. The Tide will likely lose standout guards Mark Sears and Rylan Griffen to professional opportunities, and freshman sensation Elijah Crawford is expected to test NBA Draft waters as well. Wrightsell provides a steady, experienced presence capable of filling both on-court and locker room leadership roles.

Known for his lethal three-point shooting, Wrightsell’s perimeter accuracy and quick release have made him a consistent threat from beyond the arc. During his healthy 2023-24 campaign, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and shot 39% from deep, playing a pivotal role in Alabama’s NCAA Tournament run to the Elite Eight. His ability to stretch the floor complements Alabama’s high-paced, spacing-heavy offense under Coach Oats.

But beyond the box score, Wrightsell’s defensive capabilities are equally valued. His lateral quickness, ability to guard multiple positions, and aggressive approach to perimeter defense have been praised by teammates and coaching staff alike. In a program that emphasizes defense-to-offense transitions, Wrightsell’s skill set fits seamlessly.

Wrightsell’s road to this moment has been anything but easy. The Omaha, Nebraska native first made his mark at Cal State Fullerton, where he evolved from an unheralded recruit into a first-team All-Big West performer. His transfer to Alabama was part of Coach Oats’ broader strategy to infuse the roster with experienced, high-IQ players capable of thriving in high-pressure situations.

Despite early success in Tuscaloosa, the 2024-25 season turned into a personal challenge for Wrightsell. Multiple lower-body injuries, including a nagging ankle issue, sidelined him indefinitely, and the team made the difficult decision to shut him down after just six appearances to prioritize his long-term health.

Throughout his rehabilitation process, Wrightsell remained engaged with the team, offering mentorship to younger players and contributing from the sidelines. His professionalism, work ethic, and positive influence were frequently highlighted by Coach Oats in media sessions.

“Latrell’s been through a lot this past year, but his commitment to this program never wavered,” Oats said in a recent statement. “We’re thrilled he’s been granted the opportunity to return. He’s a competitor, a leader, and someone who elevates everyone around him.”

The return of Wrightsell also has broader implications for Alabama’s roster construction. With him back in the fold, the Crimson Tide maintain depth and experience in the backcourt, alleviating pressure on incoming freshmen and transfers expected to contribute immediately. Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class includes several promising guards, but integrating young talent alongside a veteran like Wrightsell provides balance and stability.

In recent years, Alabama has emerged as a consistent force in college basketball under Nate Oats, securing multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and capturing an SEC Tournament title. The program’s success has been built on a foundation of aggressive defense, uptempo offense, and a deep, talented roster. Wrightsell’s presence ensures the Tide can continue to play with the pace and spacing that have become their trademark.

Beyond the court, Wrightsell has also been recognized for his academic achievements and community involvement, embodying the student-athlete ideal. His decision to return underscores his belief in Alabama’s program and his unfinished business in college basketball.

Fans have already expressed their excitement across social media, with many viewing Wrightsell’s return as a “missing piece” for a roster with Final Four potential. His experience in big games, understanding of SEC competition, and versatility make him a critical piece in Alabama’s quest to reach new heights.

For Wrightsell himself, the medical redshirt represents a second chance to close his collegiate chapter the right way — healthy, prepared, and ready to contribute at a high level. His focus now turns to off-season conditioning, skill development, and embracing the leadership role that awaits him.

Alabama’s 2025-26 schedule is expected to feature marquee non-conference matchups, including a return to the annual SEC/Big 12 Challenge and participation in the prestigious Maui Invitational. With Wrightsell healthy and available, Alabama’s guard rotation will have both depth and experience, essential traits for navigating the rigorous SEC slate and postseason aspirations.

The approval of Wrightsell’s medical redshirt is also a reminder of the human side of college athletics — where perseverance, resilience, and support systems play vital roles in overcoming adversity. Wrightsell’s story is one of determination, and his comeback adds an emotional layer to Alabama’s upcoming season.

In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, where player movement through the transfer portal and NIL opportunities dominate headlines, Wrightsell’s decision to return reflects loyalty and belief in the program’s culture. His presence will not only benefit Alabama on the scoreboard but will also serve as a guiding example for younger players entering the system.

As Alabama looks to build upon recent success and challenge for SEC supremacy, the return of Latrell Wrightsell Jr. provides the Crimson Tide with a proven, battle-tested guard capable of impacting both ends of the floor. His shooting, defense, leadership, and competitive spirit will be invaluable assets as the program sets its sights on another deep NCAA Tournament run.

For Wrightsell, the upcoming season represents an opportunity to showcase his talents, reestablish his presence on the national stage, and help lead Alabama toward its ultimate goal — cutting down the nets in April. With his return now official, the Crimson Tide are undoubtedly positioned as one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the 2025-26 college basketball season.