Nate Oats Provides Injury Update on Dom Welch
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — After a tough collision under the basket trying to draw a charge, Alabama guard Dom Welch left the court with the assistance of trainers not putting pressure on his right leg in the second half of Alabama's SEC Tournament quarterfinal win over Mississippi State.
According to the TV broadcast on ESPN during the game, Welch had a tailbone injury and was questionable to return. He did not play again in the game.
Alabama head coach Nate Oats updated Welch's status after the game. He said Welch had a tailbone bruise and is hopeful that he will be available for Friday.
"It was a big-time play he took taking that charge," Oats said. "It's unfortunate that Nimari fouled that guy from behind or that would've been a great charge. It kind of embodies what we're about. A kid comes off the bench and gives his body up for the betterment of the team.
"Hopefully he can get some treatment, rehab and be ready to go because I like where he's at. He's been playing well and been practicing really hard.
Welch missed the first half of the season with a lower leg injury after transferring in from St. Bonaventure. He has averaged 1.8 points per game this season off the bench.
"I'm feeling really good right now," Welch said after the game. "I'm just going to try and go back and get some treatment to try and get ready for tomorrow."
The guard had a big shot in the first half to snap a cold shooting streak from the Crimson Tide. He hit a 3-pointer to put Alabama up 24-13 after the Crimson Tide had missed its last seven 3-point shots.
"It was nice to get my first one to fall and see all my teammates making shots after that," Welch said.
See also:
Alabama Blows Out Bulldogs on Way To SEC Tournament Semifinals
Birthday Chuck: Bediako Stars in No. 1 Alabama’s Quarterfinal Win Over No. 9 Mississippi State
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