Nate Oats Provides Update on Latrell Wrightsell Ahead of Kentucky Game

Alabama's starting guard missed the Florida game with a head injury.
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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama starting guard Latrell Wrightsell's status for Saturday's game against Kentucky is still in question, after he missed Wednesday night's game against Florida.

"[Wrightsell]'s still being evaluated day-to-day," Oats said in his Friday press conference. "We haven't practiced yet, we're actually practicing when we get to Lexington today, so we'll see how today goes, see what happens tomorrow."

Wrightsell was held out of the game against Florida due to a head injury he suffered during Monday's practice. 

He's been a staple in the Crimson Tide starting lineup for the past month of the season and when he plays well, it has completely changed games for Alabama. When Wrightsell scores at least 10 points in a game, the Crimson Tide is undefeated. 

For the season, Wrightsell averaged 9.0 points per game, and leads the team in 3-point percentage at 45.1 percent. 

The Crimson Tide's matchup with Kentucky is a tough one, especially due to the Wildcat backcourt. Having Wrightsell available would be a massive boost for a road trip that is already going to be difficult, with Kentucky having a top-10 offense in the country by efficiency standards per KenPom. 

"Kentucky's backcourt is one of the most talented in the country," Oats said. "Our guards that are trying to prove they belong at the next level have a great opportunity to guard future pros."

Wrightsell has also been one of Alabama's best perimeter defenders, so his potential absence would be felt heavily on both ends of the floor if he can't suit up tomorrow.

Tipoff for No. 13 Alabama at No. 17 Kentucky is set for 3 p.m. CT and will be aired on CBS.

See also:

How to Watch: No. 13 Alabama Basketball at No. 17 Kentucky


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Blake Byler
BLAKE BYLER

Blake Byler is a staff writer for BamaCentral and primarily covers Alabama basketball and football. He has covered a wide variety of Crimson Tide sports since 2021, and began writing full-time for BamaCentral in 2023. You can find him on Twitter/X @blakebyler45.