Aden Holloway of Alabama Takes on the Team’s Three-Point Ability With Confidence

Alabama basketball has long been associated with a fast-paced, high-efficiency offensive style, and in recent years, the program has emphasized three-point shooting as a cornerstone of its success. Among the players making waves in this system is Aden Holloway, a sharpshooter whose confidence and precision have significantly contributed to the team’s performance. His ability to stretch defenses and consistently hit from deep makes him a crucial asset for the Crimson Tide. This article explores Holloway’s role in Alabama’s offensive strategy, his personal growth as a three-point shooter, and how his presence has elevated the team’s long-range capabilities.

Aden Holloway: A Rising Star

Holloway arrived at Alabama with high expectations, bringing a reputation as a confident perimeter shooter. Having transferred from Auburn, he quickly adapted to Alabama’s offensive philosophy under head coach Nate Oats. Holloway’s seamless transition into the program has been nothing short of impressive, as he has demonstrated an ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and execute with remarkable efficiency.

His breakout performance came on December 30, 2024, against South Dakota State, where he drained eight three-pointers and scored a total of 26 points. This stellar showing not only secured a dominant 105-82 victory but also underscored his ability to shift the momentum of a game through long-range shooting.

Alabama’s Three-Point Philosophy

Under Nate Oats, Alabama’s offensive scheme is built around high-value shots—layups, free throws, and three-pointers. This philosophy prioritizes spacing, ball movement, and an aggressive approach to perimeter shooting. The team’s strategy aims to maximize efficiency by taking more three-pointers than mid-range attempts, a model that has led to record-breaking performances.

Alabama’s 113-88 victory over BYU in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament is a prime example of this approach paying off. The Crimson Tide set a March Madness record with 25 made three-pointers, demonstrating the effectiveness of their offensive blueprint. While the entire team contributed to this historic achievement, Holloway’s shooting ability remains central to their success.

Statistical Impact of Holloway’s Shooting

Holloway’s numbers speak volumes about his impact on Alabama’s offense. As of late February 2025, he led the team with a 41.9% three-point shooting percentage. His accuracy improved to over 47% during Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, ranking him among the top shooters in the league. These statistics highlight his consistency and efficiency, making him one of Alabama’s most reliable scoring threats.

Coach Nate Oats has recognized Holloway’s talent and actively encourages him to take more shots. Following a crucial game against Kentucky where Holloway attempted 12 three-pointers, Oats expressed a desire for him to shoot even more, stating, “We need to get him more threes… He doesn’t miss hardly any. The more open shots we can get him, the better off our offense is going to be.”

Holloway’s Confidence and Leadership

Shooting at a high volume requires immense confidence, and Holloway possesses this in abundance. Beyond his technical skills, his belief in his shot separates him from other players. This confidence allows him to take and make difficult shots, often in high-pressure situations. Whether coming off screens, spotting up in transition, or creating his own shot off the dribble, Holloway remains fearless in his approach.

His leadership extends beyond scoring. Holloway’s presence on the court forces opposing defenses to respect his shooting ability, which in turn creates opportunities for teammates. His gravity as a shooter opens driving lanes and leads to better ball movement, making Alabama’s offense even more dynamic.

Comparison to Other Elite Shooters

Holloway’s shooting prowess draws comparisons to some of college basketball’s best perimeter players. His style mirrors that of elite shooters who have thrived in high-volume, three-point-centric offenses. Players like Steph Curry, who revolutionized the game with his deep shooting range and quick release, serve as an inspiration for Holloway’s approach.

While Holloway still has room for growth, his ability to shoot efficiently at a high volume places him in elite company. If he continues to develop his shot selection and overall game, he has the potential to make a significant impact at the professional level as well.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

Despite his success, Holloway faces challenges that come with being a primary three-point shooter. Defenses are increasingly focusing on limiting his opportunities, employing close-outs and double teams to contest his shots. Learning to adapt to defensive adjustments will be crucial in maintaining his effectiveness.

Additionally, diversifying his offensive game could elevate him even further. While he excels as a shooter, incorporating more off-the-dribble creation and mid-range scoring could make him an even greater threat. Developing his ability to attack close-outs and finish at the rim would add another dimension to his game.

Looking Ahead: Holloway’s Future and Alabama’s Success

As Alabama continues its push for championship contention, Holloway’s role will be instrumental in their success. The team’s reliance on three-point shooting aligns perfectly with his strengths, and his ability to deliver in big moments will be crucial in postseason play. If he continues to refine his game and maintain his confidence, he could become one of the most impactful players in college basketball.

For Alabama, the future looks bright. With a system built to maximize shooting talent, the Crimson Tide remain a formidable force in college basketball. Holloway’s contributions not only enhance the team’s current success but also set a precedent for future generations of players embracing Alabama’s three-point-heavy philosophy.

Aden Holloway’s confidence and ability to execute from beyond the arc have solidified him as a key figure in Alabama’s offensive strategy. His shooting has been a game-changer, influencing both individual performances and team success. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, his impact on Alabama’s three-point ability will remain a defining aspect of the program’s success. With his fearless approach and elite shooting touch, Holloway is poised to leave a lasting legacy in college basketball.