Nate Oats confirms ankle sprain for Amari Allen: What it means for Alabama basketball

November 7, 2026

Alabama basketball could be without one of its biggest contributors when the Crimson Tide returns to the court for its third game of the 2026-27 season.

Nate Oats confirmed to Crimson Tide Sports Network on Friday, Nov. 6 that sophomore forward Amari Allen suffered an ankle sprain during the second half of No. 20 Alabama‘s 101-86 victory over Arkansas State, leaving his availability against Oakland uncertain.

Not long after recording the fifth triple-double in Alabama program history, finishing with 16 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, Allen appeared to land awkwardly during a second-half play, grabbing his right ankle before requiring assistance off the court. He eventually returned to the bench but did not reenter the game.

“He sprained his ankle there,” Oats said.

Allen also met with media after the performance and indicated that he was fine, but intended to meet with athletic trainer Clarke Holter to further analyze the injury and “get some treatment.”

REQUIRED READING: Nate Oats sees more triple-doubles for Amari Allen this Alabama basketball season

Oats still has depth to rely on for Oakland on Monday, Nov. 9, though, as senior guard Aden Holloway is set to return after serving a five-game suspension that included three exhibitions and Alabama’s first two regular-season contests.

Amari Allen felt ‘fine’ after Alabama basketball game vs Arkansas State

“We’ll have Holloway back, so if Amari can’t go, good time to get Holloway eligible to play,” Oats told CTSN. “Would be great to have them both, but we’ll have to see what Amari can get done with Clarke on the rehab these next three days.”

Immediately after the game, Allen told reporters, “We’ve got a big game on Monday we’ve got to get ready for. Just shake it off. I feel fine right now.”

Allen’s status will be worth monitoring as Alabama prepares to host Oakland at Coleman Coliseum for a 6:30 p.m. CT tipoff.

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Alabama men’s basketball vs Arkansas State photo gallery

Nov 6, 2026; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide forward Drew Fielder (8) celebrates his three pointer with teammate Alabama Crimson Tide guard Amari Allen (5) during the first half against the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Coleman Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images

(David Leong, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

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